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My mother insist that I should bring presents when I visit others and she scolded me when I did not. Sometimes I just feel there is no need to do such things between friends and it makes me feel weird and even estranged with them. BTW, I totally agree that presents are necessary when visiting the elder.
I think you might be from a different culture than me, so I can't really comment on what's normal for you. For me, though, presents are either for special occasions or just for special people that you want to remind are special to you.
For a special occasion it's appropriate. Like whenever I visit my grandma for mother's day, my mom brings flowers. If i'm going to a friends house to hang out I won't.
It depends on what culture you're from, but generally in the US, it's not necessary to bring a gift unless it's something like an anniversary or birthday party.
By the way, is your mother from a different culture?
normal: please visit me , come in then go out then come in again, thats 2 boxes of chocolates, btw you're nice
Culturally it is a courtesy to follow if you are invited for a dinner or occasion but for an informal visit it's not necessary.
It's like sending holiday cards during the Christmas season; some hold to the tradition and some don't. It would depend on your relationship with your friends and how casual it is, I think. One day, if you do stay with people you are not extremely close with, you might feel a need to show them your appreciation of their hospitality like you do with your elders. It doesn't always have to be a gift as such, but something nice that shows you thought about it and you care.
I would tell her it's none of her business how I treat my friends- as long it causes no harm.
It may get excessive if you visit someone often. But if it's for dinner, bringing a bottle of wine or dessert is a nice gesture. And special occasions often come with gifts for the host. But if they become required, the gift will lose some of its value.