How to Avoid Looking Like an American Tourist

Though it may sound dumb, there are actually many reasons to avoid looking like a tourist. Specifically, an American tourist. Being so obvious often makes you a target for pickpockets and many locals will be more likely to take advantage of you. Here’s how to avoid that.

How to Avoid Looking Like an American Tourist

Dress Appropriately

Please do your best to fit in with the locals. Super casual outfits with tennis shoes or flip flops just scream America. Things to avoid: baseball caps, tennis shoes and flip flops, flashy jewelry, backpacks, fanny packs, cargo shorts/pants, shirts with name brand, military or sports logos.

These all just scream America. If you are visiting a deeply religious country or a place with a temple or a mosque, avoid wearing clothing that shows too much skin. In places like this, you will typically want to have your shoulders and legs covered. Some places like this may offer you an appropriate wrap that you can wear while visiting, but others may deny entry or simply ask you to leave.

Things to bring instead: accessories like scarves (which double as a cover-up at those temples), a satchel or crossbody bag, comfortable flats, button-up shirts, and cardigans. If you’re ever in doubt, just stick to neutrals that you can easily layer. My advice is to always dress a little nicer than you would at home, especially in Europe.

Learn a Bit of the Local Language

You have no idea how much this will help you, and what a difference it will make. Not only does it show respect and appreciation for the culture, but it will make any language barriers much easier to work through if you at least know a few of the basics. Locals will almost always appreciate you at least attempting to speak their language, whether you’re fluent or can barely say a few words.

This can also help you avoid being taken advantage of. We were once charged what I’m sure was 10x the appropriate amount for a taxi in Moscow because we weren’t able to properly communicate with the driver!

Also, be careful of hand gestures! Something you do in America could mean something completely different in another country. Even handshakes could be found offensive or awkward to some. Always do your research on what is and isn’t appropriate before you visit somewhere new.

My favorite app for learning new languages is Duolingo. It’s super easy to use and it’s free.

Learn About the Culture Before You Go

Nothing is worse than seeing an American tourist completely ignoring local customs, traditions, and just behaviors in general. Many countries have different ideas of what is and isn’t appropriate for how to act at a restaurant (tipping for example), what to do when introducing yourself, and even what to do when entering someone else’s home.

Make yourself aware beforehand so that you’ll be more confident in how to act when a certain situation arises. This can help you avoid any awkward moments or unintentional disrespect.

Don’t Wear Your Camera Around Your Neck

One sure-fire way to spot a tourist is to look for the guy who has a backpack on and a camera around his neck. Try using something a bit more inconspicuous like a satchel instead, or ladies, a purse. Keep your camera in here and only take it out when necessary. This will really help you avoid looking like a tourist. Besides, this will allow you to really soak in the moments and fully appreciate the place you are in, rather than being glued to a screen the whole time.

I won’t even mention selfie sticks. Okay, yes I will. They are terrible, annoying, and obvious. Don’t bring them! Many museums and attractions no longer allow them anyway. I remember being smacked in the face with a dozen selfie sticks while just trying to get a look at the Mona Lisa. No fun!

Avoid Talking About the Locals

Never assume that people won’t understand what you’re saying, just because it’s in English. Most countries (especially in the main cities) actually teach English along with their native language. Even in Russia, we found plenty of people who spoke English!

Always act appropriately. Don’t say stereotypical things like “throwing shrimp on the barbie” when you’re in Australia and don’t make Hitler jokes in Germany. I promise the locals won’t find you funny, they’ll just find you annoying.

Study Your Maps and Know Where You’re Going

The last thing you want is to be pulling out your map every 5 minutes looking lost and confused in the middle of the street. Before you leave your accommodation, have a look at your maps, know where you’re going, and which route you need to take.

If you ever find yourself lost, continue walking with purpose, like you know exactly where you’re going. When you get a chance, pop into a nearby cafe or shop and check your maps here, or simply ask for directions from one of the workers. Confidence is key!

Last But Not Least, Keep an Open Mind

One of the best ways to avoid looking like a tourist is to have an open mind. You can’t expect things to work the same way they do in America. Standards are very different in many countries. General rules of etiquette in your country may be completely non-existent in others. Be aware that you are the guest here and you live by their rules.

What is some of your best advice for how to avoid looking like a tourist? Share in a comment below!

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Don’t forget to check out these other posts:

• Road Trip Essentials and Tips
• Traveling As a Couple
• Best Airbnb’s Around the World
• The Ultimate Guide to Solo Hiking