Your friends tell you they're going to come visit you for the weekend and you are ecstatic. But a bad houseguest can quickly ruin both the weekend and your friendship.

Since this past weekend was the Fourth of July and I intruded on my friend with a visit, with less than 24 hour notice -- which is something you never should do -- I only thought it appropriate that I was on my best behavior, so I can be invited in the future. 

Here's a list of the top five tips to make your friends ask you back and to make their parents love you. 

1. Never arrive empty handed. Always bring a gift. You have been lucky enough to be invited and by bringing a small token, you can really show your gratitude. You don't have to bring anything elaborate that breaks the bank. Bring flowers, a bottle of wine or any type of baked goods. Bring a tote bag and a book or even ice or solo cups if you know you'll be having a big cookout. It's the thought that counts, here. 

2. Offer to help. Whether you're helping to make dinner, taking out the trash or washing the dishes, your hostess will be happy to sit down and take a break. You should always try and leave your friend's house cleaner than it was when you came in. You don't want to leave your host with a huge mess, cursing you under his or her breathe. 

3. Use your manners and be sure to compliment. You want to be on your best behavior to not be rude or make your host uncomfortable. Most likely, your host has gone through the effort to clean the house for you and put together a delicious meal. Make sure to commend the effort and let them know you realize that your visit took them work to prepare for. Also, pick up after yourself. Your mother yells at you to do it at home for a reason. 

4. Know the house rules. Once you arrive, make sure to check with your host on how things are done in his or her house so there is no confusion. Ask about the pets or whether or not your host prefers you to leave your shoes at the front door. You don't want to step on your host's feet without knowing it, so ask before things get awkward. 

5. Roll with the punches. Even if you plan every detail of your weekend, it always end up changing. If that does happen, don't get all twisted out of joint. Put a smile on and get pumped for the change. Chances are, it could end up being an awesome time and if it's not, you learned something you don't like. 

Finally, always send a thank you note, small gift or offer to have your friend stay with you. It's only polite and that is what being a good house guest boils down to.