5 Tips to Avoid Dressing Like a Tourist When Traveling

I may offend some people with this opinion, but I don't care…

Yesterday, I was at one of my favorite places in the world, Costco, and I saw fanny packs for sale. 😑This is where I draw the line. Things have gone too far!

Since when did fanny packs become mainstream again!? I was relieved when they went out of style, but now they're making an unwelcome comeback. In addition to hating the way a fanny pack looks (like a kangaroo pouch protruding from your stomach), there’s no functional reason to wear one.

What do you even put in them?!!!

Back in the day, people would store extra film canisters, cassette tapes, and spare cash in their fanny packs, but in the age of smartphones, you can leave the extra baggage at home.

It seems like we’re living in the *twilight zone* where all that was once deemed "uncool" is becoming fashionable again…like handlebar mustaches and mullets.

Let these items stay dead. ⚰️

What do you think?

Anyway, today's post started as an Instagram video but it was so good that I had to put it in the newsletter. Enjoy!

The Busy Traveler’s 5 Tips to Avoid Dressing like a Tourist When Traveling:

Why is this important?🤔

Tourists are more likely to be targeted by pickpockets since they usually carry cash and only stay for a short period of time.
Locals may behave friendlier towards you if you make an effort to fit in. When they see that you’re making an effort to adapt to their culture, they’re more likely to help you out or give you recommendations.

Be aware of the following:

Know Cultural Dress Codes: Adhere to any dress codes or modesty requirements in the region you’re visiting. In some places, for example, it may be inappropriate to wear shorts or sleeveless tops. By dressing appropriately, you’ll not only avoid looking like a tourist, but you’ll also show respect for the local culture.
Research Local Fashion Trends: Before you travel, take some time to research the fashion trends of your destination. This can help you pack the right things to avoid looking out of place. Look for popular styles, colors, and fabrics, as well as any customs or traditions related to clothing.
Pack Versatile Options: Choose clothing items that can be dressed up or down and mixed & matched to create different outfits. You want to blend in with locals who may dress more conservatively than you do. Also, DON’T wear overly bright, neon, logo-covered clothing.
Avoid Wearing Items that Scream “TOURIST”: These items include fanny packs, visors, or bulky cameras. Instead, opt for a small crossbody bag or backpack that holds your essentials without drawing attention to yourself.
Observe and Take Cues from Locals: When in doubt, observe how locals are dressed and take cues from them. Pay attention to the styles and colors they’re wearing and try to emulate them in your own clothing choices.

💡And, remember, fanny packs just aren’t okay…EVER. See above.

If you follow these 5 simple steps, you’ll blend in with locals on your next trip!

Andrew

What do you think of fanny packs?