It is common for foreigners to bring small gifts to give out to local Cubans. While gifts and donations are never expected, they are always well received. Considering that the average Cuban is relatively poor and the cost of goods in the country is relatively high, most Cubans do not have much economic slack to spend on non-essentials. Furthermore, due to the American embargo, it is often expensive or impossible to purchase certain foreign goods. Small, everyday items, which foreigners take for granted, are considered major gifts in Cuba and will make a huge difference to the recipient.
Some websites state that you should never give out gifts because it ruins the local culture or spoils the people. They might have a point. But I have lots of friends in Cuba and I enjoy bringing them some things every time I visit.
I don’t recommend bringing soaps or shampoo or cleaning supplies. Cubans have these things and they are not expensive to buy.
But if you are staying in a casa particular, the hosts would probably feel very happy to receive some small gifts. Token items like a box of chocolates or an old (but functioning) cell phone or a magazine or book are always well received.
If the hosts have kids, you can bring a few toys. Dolls or action figures or toy cars. Soccer balls and baseballs are fun and kids love them.
Some people bring clothes too. It’s more of a familiar gift, but if you know somebody or expect to make some friends in Cuba, they certainly would not mind getting some gently used clothes.
You don’t have to feel pressured to give anything. But you don’t have to feel shy or uncomfortable to give things either.
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