What is the accepted right thing to do?

[supersparky]

I wasn't sure where to post this but if this isn't the best spot then can one of the mods move it to wherever is more appropriate.
My wife and I are ready to invoke the retirement clause and finish work later this year or early next year.
We then propose to do a fair bit of travelling in our Winnebago Alpine. As per most of our members we propose to do a fair bit of free camping along the way. Obviously from time to time we will have stop at CP's when nothing else is available and they may cost from $30 to $60 per day, or more in peak season.
My big question this time is - 'When you are stopping at the home of family or friends, what is deemed acceptable by the readers of these pages as the right amount to offer as payment? Is $10 per day enough ?? What if I use their water/ washing facilities/cooking etc.'
In the past I have had family stay with us and use everything, including the family car to get shopping etc, and when leaving just give the dog a pat and say"see you next time". Which might be Ok with family but is it the same with mates?
I just don't want to appear to be bludging on anybody. Or on the other hand appear to be 'being a high roller and splashing the cash about'!
What do the members here think is the 'right thing to do'?

[BruceS]

haha... very interesting question!
I don't think there is any set amount .... it would depend a lot on just how you know them.
Many I know just return the favour at a later date or maybe even 'dining out' and paying the bill.
I think it's VERY important to discuss and settle the question prior rather than a 'stab in the back' after they're gone.
I told Bernie it was $3,000 a week on a houseboat & he said he'd leave me his debts in his will!! Can't wait for that one!!
Do I charge interest? lol....

[Vik351]

I detest parasites... ya should know your mates by now, they should know you. But sounds like your the door mat type and get used for being too nice. Bugger that, all the parasites I knew have shriveled up and gone away couldn’t be happier.

Remember these wise words “ A word spoken is your master, A word unspoken is your slave”

If in doubt ask how much to stay at your joint for a night or two ...???

Vik...

[BernieQ2]

Difficult questions Dave .
I have had many motorhome and caravan owners stay at my place...I have not even thought of asking for money...and I would not expect to be offered..which would be refused anyway. most have not used our facilities but would not be refused if needed...some have..
Bernie.
I'm watching you Bruce.....

I'll give you a ring tomorrow if you're available Dave

[Greynomad]

Same here.
We have a concrete slab for Girt.
When friends are coming we move her off her home to make room for visitors’ RV.
Have 15A power available and water if required.
I’ve never asked for or been offered payment and likewise would not take it if offered.

[Izabarack]

The length of time of the stay must have some bearing on what to do. Size of the land and opportunities to have a bit of separation would also be a consideration. We live on five acres and have several sites for self-contained camping. People only stay here on invite. If invited, then I expect only thanks for the invite.

Iza

[Chuck]

I agree with the 'length of time' version. If only overnight or for a couple of days - literally - & using power/water etc - then a handshake & a thanks would be totally acceptable.

If you know your stay is likely to be extended then an up front discussion stating you insist on paying $X amount should be a discussed.

To overcome the embarrassment of your hosts declining the $$$, perhaps a thank you card with the appropriate amount left in an suitable place in the house.

If your guest turns out to be very handy & helps out - thanks Kay & Bruce - & Rob'n'Lyn - then no amount of $$$ would even be considered.

If I stayed at Dot's... I'd definitely leave it in the dunny...

[BillieBlue]

We have had guests stay with us heaps of times and would never even think of charging them . They are our guests.

[Vik351]

We have had guests stay with us heaps of times and would never even think of charging them . They are our guests.

I offered to stay at your joint and neva got an answer

Vik... mates...

[T1 Terry]

Tough one David, I always try to be as self sufficient as possible and keep out of my hosts hair as much as possible so the only use is really the toilet and shower if offered. I try to help out if they have anything they would like done if it's within my skill set to do, not in my view as being in lieu of payment but because I feel that is what friends do.
Think the barter system was always the better method of trade and that changing it to credit note system is what has lead to the rich and poor classes we have in society since a universal currency method of trade was adopted. It has its place, but how do you put a $$ value on what a friend does for a friend without cheapening the whole concept of the friendly offer?
I think the base line is this, never expect anything, be very grateful for anything you receive and to give is always better for the sole. Ying and Yang and all that stuff, those that conceive themselves to be rich are really probably the poorest among us because you can't buy good friends ..... way too much philosophy before second or third coffee, please excuse my rambling while I go and at least fix the coffee problem ...... is coffee the opposite to choof? Seem to remember choof loosening the philosophic juices resulting in a lot of nonsense being shared with others who didn't have clue what you were on about