Guide to Being a Good Traveler: 12 Key Traits

Traveling is fun and enriching, but it can also come with challenges like airline delays, bad weather, and unexpected hiccups. Things don’t always go as planned. Unfortunately, vacationing isn’t always "rainbows and unicorns” every minute.

We can all benefit ourselves and others by being good travelers. But what are the characteristics we need to strive for? 

Twelve Traits That Every Traveler Should Cultivate

I believe the better we are as travelers, the better the experience is for the traveler, those who work to ensure their trip is safe and wonderful, and the local people who come in contact with them. The best vacation possible--- that’s what I want for my clients and myself.

Check out these traits for tips on how to continue to be the best possible traveler:    

Adaptability

Travel plans rarely go perfectly. “Stuff happens.” Good travelers know how to handle delays, cancellations, or unexpected changes with grace. Being adaptable means staying calm and flexible, finding alternative solutions, maintaining kindness for anyone who has to deliver bad news, and continuing to enjoy the journey despite challenges. This resilience makes their travels less stressful and more rewarding. Keep your blood pressure down and embrace the unexpected.

Respect for Cultures

Cultural respect is essential for both meaningful travel and to present as a good visitor versus an “ugly American.”  Good travelers research local customs, dress appropriately, and behave with humility. They show gratitude for the opportunity to experience another culture, ensuring positive actions and reactions. This fosters positive interactions with locals and contributes to a more authentic travel experience and amazing interactions and memories.

Curiosity

Curiosity drives good travelers to explore beyond the surface. They ask questions, visit lesser-known sites, and seek to dig deeper into cultural practices or historical landmarks. This eagerness to learn turns every journey into an enriching educational experience, deepening their connection to the places they visit.

Patience

Travel can be unpredictable, with long lines, crowded attractions, occasional misunderstandings, and situations beyond their control. Patience ensures good travelers remain calm and composed, treating others kindly even in frustrating situations. By staying patient, they keep a positive outlook, ensuring that unexpected delays don’t allow them to lose their enjoyment of the trip.

Open-Mindedness

Good travelers embrace the unfamiliar, seeing differences in cultures, cuisines, and traditions as opportunities to engage with locals and for their growth. Good travelers listen actively and approach interactions with a desire to learn and share, therefore fostering mutual respect, showing compassion, stepping step outside their comfort zones, and fully appreciating the diversity of the world around them.

Preparedness

Good travelers plan thoroughly without over-scheduling. They research their destination, pack wisely, and anticipate potential challenges. This can include many areas, such as packing a first-aid kit, downloading maps, or learning key phrases in the local language. Did you know that Scouts worldwide use the Scout motto “Be prepared”? Be prepared, plan…. And allow room for delays and spontaneity.

Politeness and Courtesy

Kindness goes a long way. Good travelers treat everyone respectfully, from hotel staff to fellow tourists and locals. They communicate respectfully, offer smiles, and say "thank you" in the local language. This respectful approach not only enhances their travel experience but also builds bridges between cultures. They’re ambassadors that challenge negative stereotypes like the “ugly American.”

Self-Awareness

Good travelers don’t disrupt local customs or the daily life of others. They know that adapting to their surroundings and blending in makes others more comfortable around them and doesn’t put them at a safety disadvantage. They avoid wearing and carrying any clothing, excessive jewelry, and accessories that could conflict with local culture, be insulting, or attract unwanted attention by scammers, pickpockets, aggressive vendors, or someone wanting to have an argument about politics or beliefs.

Sense of Humor

Despite the best planning, something typically doesn’t go as expected. But a sense of humor keeps the journey enjoyable! Good travelers laugh at minor inconveniences or mishaps, turning potentially stressful moments into funny memories. This optimism ensures they remain upbeat, making the journey more enjoyable for themselves and those around them.

Empathy

Empathy helps travelers connect deeply with people they meet. By understanding and valuing different perspectives, they show compassion and build genuine relationships. Good travelers listen actively, respect locals’ challenges, and approach interactions with a desire to learn and share, fostering mutual respect and meaningful connections.

Being Mindful

Mindful travelers immerse themselves in the present moment. They put away distractions like phones to fully appreciate their surroundings, savoring every detail. This awareness deepens their appreciation for the sights, sounds, and people they may have otherwise glossed over or possibly missed altogether. Being mindful isn’t just about being safer. It also makes their travel experiences more meaningful and memorable.

Gratitude

Gratitude enriches every travel experience. Good travelers recognize the privilege of exploring new places and thank those who make their journey possible. Whether it’s tipping fairly, complimenting a host, or simply reflecting on what you’ve experienced, allow yourself to feel gratitude and share it.

Where would you like to go next to practice your good traveler traits? ;-)

Happy Traveling!

-Connie