Get Premium
Dark mode theme is available exclusively for premium users. Learn more about the benefits of subscribing.
No fees, cancel anytime.
Dark Mode 
No fees, cancel anytime 
Traveling is one of the most enriching experiences in life. You discover different parts of the world, soak in new cultures, and gain new perspectives that help you become a well-rounded person. After all, you learn about all the similarities and differences your homeland shares with these faraway territories. But at the same time, people over there also observe that you’re far, far away from a local.
To people outside the US, Americans are a recognizable bunch. Apparently, it’s not only the accent that gives them away. Extremely extroverted? Check. Wears shoes inside? Yes, sir. Asks for refills? Spotted in plain sight! And many more similar traits, as Reddit user TheRighteous999 proved when they posted this question, "What are some things American people do that instantly tell you that they're American?"
Sure enough, the thread received an avalanche of responses with typically "American" traits that make them stick out in other countries. We’ve gone through the answers and gathered the ones that bleed blue, white, and red. So if you wish to be a more discreet traveler, scroll down and consider these giveaways for your next trip. Keep reading to also find an in-depth interview with travel blogger Megan Starr. Then let us know which of the replies you agree with most, and be sure to share your own takes in the comments!
This post may include affiliate links.
#1
Talks about “freedom” like it’s an exclusive American privilege and not the bare minimum for a good chunk of the world.
Ange Marsden 2 years ago
Trump called my country a Socialist Hell; We're hoping that puts his family off moving here
RELATED:
#2
"I'm french, italian, spanish, portuguese and serbian"
**Born and raised in Connecticut, never left the state, only speaks english and maybe took a 23andme test**
Or
"You're french ? I'm french too ! My great great ... great grandmother was in Paris one time when she was a toddler !"
DrBronxx 2 years ago
Yes. Americans claiming to be from another country without any qualifiers is a pet peeve of many around the globe. The first time I met an American while I was traveling abroad, she said "I'm English", and I, assuming she must have moved to the US as a child, said "Oh really? Which part?" Her response was "Oh, I don't know. I just know that my great grandparents came from there." The exchange left me very confused.
It’s no secret that citizens of the most powerful country in the world often find themselves in the spotlight. The internet’s fascination with America, from its culture to its politics to its people, seems to be beyond control. It looks like everyone has at least a few opinions to share about the nation, and, news flash! They’re usually far from great.
In reality, not all typically American characteristics are negative. Every culture has peculiar quirks that can tell people around the world what country someone came from, even without asking. But differences between the US and other places can sometimes be so painfully obvious that they make for some amusing moments of confusion whenever pointed out.
To learn more about the subtle and not-so-subtle things American tourists do that immediately out them in other countries, we reached out to a writer and travel blogger Megan Starr who is originally from Virginia, US. She is one of the authors of a blog called Megan & Aram that’s purely dedicated to showcasing the beauty of Scandinavia, the Eastern bloc, and beyond. Living abroad for 12 years now, Megan is an avid traveler that has explored many breathtaking places around the globe and has amassed an arsenal of experiences she’s eager to share with others.
#4
Smug and overconfident. Especially applies to White American men. I work in engineering consulting and it constantly amazes me how comfortable they are listening to the sound of their own voices and being wrong or inaccurate more than 50% of the time.
#5
They make a huge fuss over your accent.
I was in London and some American tourists asked for directions, I told them and they were like ‘you sound so British!’ and even called his friend over to marvel at my accent. Like, dude you’re *in* England. What do you expect? The people aren’t a f*****g museum attraction
#6
Most Americans I meet are some of the friendliest, polite people. That being said, they are unmistakably loud and over-sharey of personal details.
Also they should know that the customer is not always right, that service industry jobs are respectable occupations, and asking for ketchup is a dead giveaway.
Lakota Wolf 2 years ago (edited)
I do NOT over-share personal details! I mean, the ONLY thing you REALLY need to know about me is that I'm 5'5", I have curly hair, I have two cats who are named Kohl and Preacher, and Kohl was named for the mineral stibnite, and Preacher was named for one of my favorite comic book series, and I have a puppy named Stilgar, and I really like pears, and I like pretty much all insects except for earwigs, and I was adopted at birth, and my adopted mother is a toxic narcissist who was physically, mentally, and emotionally abusive towards me my entire life, and I have one adopted sister and two biological sisters, and my adopted dad died last year, and he was an awesome dad and a great guy, and I have this one hair on my chin that grows out all bristly and thick, and we call those "bruja hairs" in my family, and I like parsnips and beets and pretty much all vegetables, and I'm 40 years old, and when I was a kid I had a small speaking part in a TV series so I have an actual IMDB listing, and
When asked if she could reveal certain things that instantly expose Americans as tourists, she said that extreme confidence is probably the biggest one. "I can always tell an American (especially when abroad) because they walk around with confidence, they speak loudly and clearly (sometimes too much), and they are quick to say hello and be social," she told Bored Panda. "When I am abroad, this is usually how I can spot an American."
While the accent is seemingly their biggest giveaway, body language, behavioral differences, and even fashion choices also help people to recognize that a tourist is from the US. "That and the fact that they are likely wearing a t-shirt from their favorite college or sports team," Megan added.
#7
Measure everything in eagles per squarefoot
Nathan Jones 2 years ago
Literally nobody has ever done this. We strictly measure in football fields.
#8
Based on my personal experience:
“I don’t understand why no one here speaks English” - In a foreign country where actually a lot of people do speak English although not at a native level.
Also “You guys have no customer service” just because Karens in my country don’t get free food.
#9
Introduce themselves as their ancestors nationalities lmao
Ange Marsden 2 years ago
Australians and Kiwis don't do this; You gonna live in the past, better mention all the shifty things your ancestors did too....
Most of the responses from the community can be considered as clichés that poke fun at American citizens, and as we all know, stereotypes do tend to have a grain of truth in them. However, they may also form a rather negative view of the country for those who have never come into contact with the culture. Since Americans wear their identities proudly, they often become subject to "America vs. the rest of the world" comparisons.
When asked why some people spend so much energy frowning upon the US, Megan believes it has become trendy for some to make "hating Americans" their personality. "I feel bad to say that... but I know many people that have allowed that to become their entire personality. As an American (who has plenty of issues with her home country), I have found many American tourists to be better behaved than other nationalities," the travel blogger said. "I feel like (for the most part), our best people travel abroad."
#11
Extremely extroverted and talkative
I've lived in germany for 14 years and I've never seen strangers talk really. when I went to America everyone was so nice and talkative. it was a nice but strange experience
#12
Honestly all the American I saw in my town were particularly cheerful and enthusiasts about things we take for granted. Like walking in a thousand years old street.
I also find them very expansive about their feelings. They don't hesitate to say: "Oh! this guy is so funny, man" in public. whereas in Europe I have the impression that we have lost the habit of communicating together in public.
Lakota Wolf 2 years ago
Our country is kind of embarrassingly young and we don't have much history/historical culture. So we do tend to be fascinated and awed by the old stuff in other countries :)
Even if stripes and stars seep through your pores, the chances are that you sometimes want to be a more discreet traveler. Maybe you’re tired of feeling singled out, or perhaps you experienced unfortunate situations only because locals knew you’re a foreigner. Whatever the reason, Alyse, The Invisible Tourist, shared a few tips on how to blend in when traveling.
First, do a bit of research. The odds for you to look more like a local grow significantly if you spend time learning about the culture and etiquette. "Not only will this demonstrate to locals that you respect their heritage, but they’ll also be super appreciative of your efforts," she wrote. Also, learning a few basic phrases in their language can help you find a way out of troubling situations. Then, avoid proudly displaying your camera or selfie stick out in public, as they’ll immediately blow your cover. "Unless you’re a professional photographer, do you really need a flashy camera permanently draped around your neck that makes you look like a tourist?" Alyse asked. Well, that's for you to decide.
#13
Maybe woosh, but...
If you hold your fork on the left, and cut with the knife in the right, then you would usually keep the fork on the left to eat with.
Very American to cut with the right, then swap the fork to the right to eat that bit, then swap again to cut with the right. Rinse and repeat.
#14
Equating freedom with being able to buy a product or being able to do something really meaningless
Regal Kitten 2 years ago
Hey, if I don't have the freedom to waste my time doing something entirely pointless when I feel like it, what even is life worth?
#15
Asking for refills, ice, or iced tea has outed me more times than I'd care to admit.
Bored Person 2 years ago
I don't understand this. You pay for one drink, so you get one drink, or at least that's how it works where I'm from
However, Megan mentioned that trying your best to blend in may take away some joy from your journey. "I think that if you're headed to visit the Colosseum, for example, you are likely not going to give off the vibe that you're a local! I think it is good to remain chilled out and respectful, but I don't see the point in trying to 'blend' in. I have made several friends on the road from simply being a foreigner. But, I am also the first person to throw headphones on and wander about trying to discover the streets on my own terms,” she said.
#16
"Do you speak English? DOOO! YOOOU! SPEEEAK! ENNNNGLISH!"
Regal Kitten 2 years ago
I never understand how saying something really loudly and slowly is supposed to make it easier to understand.
#17
BEING LOUD. And I don’t mean intentionally. They can be just talking in a restaurant or a train and it’s the only conversation that can be heard from everywhere.
StarlightPanda! 2 years ago
American here. Most people I talk to here think I talk too loud. So I must talk overly loud as an American. I think it's a me thing though. Lol
If you want to be a great tourist when traveling around the globe, Megan shared one tip that could help you reach your goal. "Asking questions in a non-invasive and judgmental manner," she told us. "You can make friends this way and also learn a lot about culture."
"I also think it is about respecting where you are. If you are in a conservative country as a female, cover up. Simple as that. You may not agree with it, but being respectful goes a long way. Also... don't break stuff. And don't photograph places you shouldn't or fly drones in no-flying zones," the travel blogger concluded.
#19
Ask about common American chains that are uncommon/nonexistent in other countries. Also assuming that international chains serve the same thing in every country; McDonald’s, for example, has different menu items in, say, China. Assuming the food is prepared the exact same, too—I remember ordering chicken nuggets as a kid in Germany and being shocked they tasted so different. Probably because they were made with real chicken.
#20
Uses their shoes inside. Even if there has been raining
Cashme Outside 2 years ago
Ive got a Mr. Rogers thing goin on in my house. I have house shoes and outside shoes.
#21
They start talking to you/always trying to make conversation.
I was at the car wash one time and this guy sat beside me and asked if the truck was mine. I said no politely and hoped he’ll stop talking to me as English is not my first language.
Lo and behold few minutes later he was telling me the story about 9/11 as he was one of the first responders and how he developed an illness because of the said job.
Americans are really interesting people. They really know how to keep a conversation going. I couldn’t do that, Europeans wouldn’t do that, i think lol.
#23
I asked for a refill of coke on vacation at a restaurant in Australia. They said I’ve got to be American and had a good laugh.
Silly Putty 2 years ago
I guess I don't get out much but I've ever once expected, or asked for, a refill.
#24
If they’re a 35+ year old man wearing a large T shirt, khaki cargo shorts, and white sneakers with socks that go halfway up their calves
Regal Kitten 2 years ago
It's like in a video game where everybody gets the default skin, and then you can upgrade, except nobody does
#25
Saying "hey how are you/how is it going" without expecting an actual answer. An when you answer and ask how they are, it usually baffles them!
Jill Rhodry 2 years ago
We have the same greeting but Aussie style - 'owyagoin' - the only appropriate response is 'not bad, yaself?"
#26
It's 10 degrees and you're wearing an oversized sweatshirt with the name of your college, shorts and flip flops.
Chucky Cheezburger 2 years ago
10 degrees Celsius...thats reasonable...not great but whatever. 10 degrees Fahrenheit, they're gonna be a frozen idiot soon.
#27
Wear a baseball cap at an indoor restaurant.
Signed, an American who (ONCE!) wore a baseball cap at an indoor restaurant.
Downunderdude 2 years ago
Most recent Prime Minister in Oz who wore a baseball cap instead of an Akubra got annihilated at our recent election. Coincidence? I think not.
#28
We get a lot of American tourists here, why do you all wear the exact same clothes? Ireland t shirt, shorts, socks with sandals or those awful trainers, sunglasses and baseball caps
Lazy Panda (she/her/hers) 2 years ago
These are all making me think that I am positively incognito when I travel. I hope I can at least pass for Canadian, if nothing else.
#29
Loud, the way they dress, being overly polite, ask what I do for a living in the first 5 mins of conversation, etc
#30
Eating while walking (eg eating a bagel or breakfast sandwich on the way to work or school)
What do you think ?
Gavin Johnson 2 years ago
To add a tiny bit of balance. I have crossed paths with a huge number of U.S. citizens, I worked in hospitality, I found them to be engaging and polite, they loved the history of our hotel (built in the 1400s), they loved a conversation and that is way better than being grunted at by a drunk, English businessman. I can honestly say they were a delight to have at our hotel, they brought an energy that livened things up, they made folk smile (even if it was unintentionally) and they treated staff respectfully and generally speaking they made great guests. Every race, colour, creed has negatives assholes, don’t define a nation by the idiots you see, would you want your nation to be defined by your idiots?
Katy McMouse 2 years ago
Thank you very much. I didn't expect any of these comments. You all have warmed my cynical heart!
Load More Replies...
Glitterati 2 years ago
When I was a backpacker travelling Asia and South America I got bashed constantly for the sins of the British. Other travellers would not let up about all the shitty things the British did over the years, using the term “you did x, y and z” like I was personally responsible. It really got me down. This post probably has the same affect on Americans. Every country has jerks and quirks. Negative stereotyping in any form is uncool.
Hexenfox 2 years ago
Please stop bashing Americans. Why can't you find another country to bash.
No One 2 years ago
I seriously couldn’t get through this list. A lot of ignorance and rudeness regarding Americans.
Load More Replies...
Gavin Johnson 2 years ago
To add a tiny bit of balance. I have crossed paths with a huge number of U.S. citizens, I worked in hospitality, I found them to be engaging and polite, they loved the history of our hotel (built in the 1400s), they loved a conversation and that is way better than being grunted at by a drunk, English businessman. I can honestly say they were a delight to have at our hotel, they brought an energy that livened things up, they made folk smile (even if it was unintentionally) and they treated staff respectfully and generally speaking they made great guests. Every race, colour, creed has negatives assholes, don’t define a nation by the idiots you see, would you want your nation to be defined by your idiots?
Katy McMouse 2 years ago
Thank you very much. I didn't expect any of these comments. You all have warmed my cynical heart!
Load More Replies... Glitterati 2 years ago
When I was a backpacker travelling Asia and South America I got bashed constantly for the sins of the British. Other travellers would not let up about all the shitty things the British did over the years, using the term “you did x, y and z” like I was personally responsible. It really got me down. This post probably has the same affect on Americans. Every country has jerks and quirks. Negative stereotyping in any form is uncool.
Hexenfox 2 years ago
Please stop bashing Americans. Why can't you find another country to bash.
No One 2 years ago
I seriously couldn’t get through this list. A lot of ignorance and rudeness regarding Americans.
Load More Replies... You May Like “Commit Some Crimes, Go To Prison”: 40 People Share Where They Would Move To If Given The Chance “Smelled Like Pee”: People Share The Most Hyped Travel Destinations That Left Them Disappointed
Jonas Zvilius
Rugile Baltrunaite
Related on Bored Panda
