Houseguest - present for hosts

[Fink]

I'm going to be staying with strangers for a couple of days. Domestic location (so no good bringing some British specialities) but I have to fly because of train strikes. No checked in luggage so I can't bring drinks.

I don't know these people at all so I have no idea what they like. Literally all I know about them is their names, which indicate that they're a mixed-sex couple.

I feel like a tin of biscuits wouldn't be enough, but I'm not sure what else to bring. Maybe I could bring biscuits with me and then send a present through the post after having stayed? Or does anyone have any ideas for what I could bring with me?

I think biscuits would be fine, or chocolates.

I'm intrigued as to why you are staying with strangers.

I'm going for a conference and all the speakers are being put up by people connected to the local organisers.

Similarly, in the summer I'll be going to a big Catholic event in Lisbon where we may be hosted by random Portuguese Catholics. Luckily I'm traveling by road so there'll be more space to pack a thoughtful gift!

A tin of biscuits or perhaps something regional from wherever you live?
After your stay.. when you know them a little better perhaps.. if you feel something more is required you could have a gift delivered that is in keeping with their taste, interest or lifestyle.

Yes, something regional if you are travelling from a distant part of the UK.

Could you buy something at the airport?

I would buy a bottle of something nice at the airport and pack a gift bag.

Something regional from where you are, or nice chocolate is good, if they don’t eat it they can give it to someone when they next get asked to dinner.

Or, don’t come with anything (it’s not necessary) and post them whatever when you discover they have a mad passion for badgers.

The one thing I think is necessary is a thank you card.

Costco Cling film and foil - such a useful gift 😉and would last ages

It's London to Edinburgh. I feel like I'd want to know their feelings on Scottish independence and Englishness in general before turning up with a model beefeater or London bus. 😂That's why I thought that maybe after the visit I could get something more personal.

That's not a bad idea. As well as biscuits/ chocolates. Although I don't drink so I have no idea what 'something nice' would be except expensive = nice. Usually if I have to buy someone a bottle I do my research!

Go to Fortnum and Mason and buy one of their long tin cylinders full of biscuits. They all taste really good!

And maybe a special tin of tea?

Why don’t you find out if their local supermarket/bottle shop delivers hampers and have one sent for when you arrive?

A posh tin of biscuits and a card would be lovely . They might be quite modest people and until you've met them a big hamper or expensive booze might be odd. There is no way you could be considered rude with simple gift. If you really feel you'd like to give more, there may be local shops up there for the last day, or you can post something after