Q: I recently joined Home Base Holidays and am currently discussing an exchange in 2020 with a member in France. I'm new to home swapping (this will be my first swap!) and am not quite sure what will be expected by the guests staying in my home. Of course I will make sure my home is clean, tidy and with fresh bedding and towels ready for their stay but, should I also clear out my wardrobe? Also, what about personal belongings, is it okay to leave them out? Any feedback would be appreciated. Thanks!
A: Most members just clear a section of a wardrobe and a drawer or two for their exchange partners to store their clothes (as most exchange periods are fairly short, your guests are unlikely to need a lot of space for their belongings).
As well as leaving some storage space in bedrooms, leave kitchen equipment, etc for their use but tidy your fridge and a kitchen cupboard so that your guests have space to store their food.
Leave basic provisions: you don't have to go grocery shopping, but it's nice to have staples like tea, coffee, sugar, milk, bread, butter, cereal, toilet rolls and washing up liquid on hand to help your guests settle in while they figure out the lay of the land.
Your guests will be looking forward to staying in a real home rather than a showroom or hotel and so, it's completely fine to leave most of your personal belongings in place. However, for peace of mind, some members do choose to store or lock away anything of value or sentimental value.
Remember to ask the other member any questions that come to mind; they will understand that it is your first time exchanging and will appreciate the fact that you are being thorough.
Do make sure to contact us again if you need any help with your home swap arrangements.
Getting ready for a home swap? Check out our preparing for a home swap checklist
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