If you’re planning your study abroad experience, don’t forget to consider what you will bring as a host family gift!

If you have chose to live with a family during your study abroad experience as your study abroad housing option, it’s important to not come empty-handed. After all, this family has agreed to take you into their home for the duration of the your stay.

Gift giving is a universal gesture of respect and appreciation, especially upon meeting for the first time.

Studying abroad can be pricey. You don’t have to spend a fortune on your host family gift! The best gifts can be inexpensive, as long as they reflect where you are from. Here are a few ideas for host family gifts:

1. Edibles

Does your state have a representative food? For example, if you’re from Vermont, bring some authentic maple syrup as a host family gift. It is both delicious, easy to carry and inexpensive as well as being a (sweet) taste of where you’ve come from.

2. Sports Paraphernalia

When your host family is chosen, find out who you’ll be living with! Are there teenagers in the house? They’re probably interested in sports. Buy a sports cap or jersey of your favorite US sports team as a host family gift!

3. US-Themed Items

Your host family will likely be interested in basic things about the United States that you might not even consider. US-themed items such as a small collection of US stamps or postcards featuring the New York skyline or other famous US landmarks make a great host family gift!

Living with a host family while studying abroad is often a very rewarding experience and it’s important to have a good relationship with your new hosts during your stay. Since first impressions are key, make sure to get a thoughtful host family gift before your departure abroad!

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