Staying at the home of a friend or family member can be a fun and relaxing experience. But that doesnt mean you can behave however youd like as an overnight guest.

Behaving rudely in someone elses space is not only impolite; it can also mean the difference between getting invited back or shelling out for an expensive hotel next time youre in town.

Here, etiquette experts share some common rude behaviors from overnight guests and advice for avoiding these faux pas.

Taking Up Too Much Space

When youre a guest in someone elses home, try not to take up too much space or get in the way of the smooth operation of the household.

Pack light if you are visiting and treat your guest room as you would your own home, advised Diane Gottsman , an etiquette expert, the author of Modern Etiquette for a Better Life and the founder of The Protocol School of Texas. Pick up wet towels. Dont put a glass on the nightstand without a coaster. And be respectful of electricity and water consumption.

Not Giving Your Host A Break

Jodi R.R. Smith, the president of Mannersmith Etiquette Consulting , recommended making yourself scarce when possible. Give your host some alone time during the day.

Retire to your room for a nap, read a book or take a long walk, Gottsman suggested. Even better, take the day to see the sights. Invite the host, but be sure to leave them the opportunity to decline: I am off to see the Statue of Liberty today. If you would like to join me, you are more than welcome, but please dont change your plans on account of me. I know how busy you are right now.

Expecting Car Access

When someone agrees to let you stay in their home, there should be no assumption that use of their car is included. Unless they offer, dont count on borrowing it.

Rent your own car or take an Uber , Gottsman said. Dont expect your host to give you their car during your visit.