For some reason, there are always a few travel myths that seem to stick around despite evidence to the contrary. They might contain a nugget of truth, so people latch on to them and claim them as fact. Many of the following misconceptions are outdated, misguided, or both.
I’m here today to dispel these common travel myths. The time has come for the people to know the truth!
Being a tourist is a bad thing
There’s a certain stigma attached to the word “tourist.” And to be fair, tourism (specifically over-tourism) in certain parts of the world has had negative effects on locals and the environment. Over time, though, it seems like these criticisms have snowballed to include all tourists and all forms of tourism.
Being a tourist isn’t necessarily a bad thing! There’s nothing wrong with visiting the most popular tourist attractions and enjoying them for what they are. Acting like a local when traveling has become all the rage, but locals don’t generally visit the Eiffel Tower or the Trevi Fountain or the Blue Lagoon. It’s okay to embrace being a tourist, as long as you do so respectfully and intentionally.
You need to speak the local language
Yes, you should absolutely try to learn a few phrases in the local language before you go. No, you shouldn’t assume that everyone speaks English.
That being said, you can usually get by with a lot less of the native language than you expect. Knowing the words for yes, no, thank you, please, and bathroom will get you 90% of the way there. If all else fails, gesturing, pointing, and signing will more than likely get your point across.
Travel is expensive
Travel can definitely be expensive — there’s no denying that. If you’re staying in luxury hotels, booking an all-inclusive group tour, and only traveling during peak times, you will pay more than you would at home. But that doesn’t have to be the case!
Conventional travel marketing has always framed taking a vacation as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that you need to splurge on. That may have been true a few decades ago, but with travel getting more accessible and affordable than ever before, that mindset is outdated. We’re living in the digital age — it’s possible to make bookings without a travel agent and still get a good deal.
Nowadays, it’s easier than ever to travel often and travel on a budget (especially for the independent traveler that can plan and book their own trips). Backpacking, comparison shopping for the best deal on accommodation, and using travel credit cards for free flights are all great ways to save money on the road. You can also sign up to daily newsletters with cheap flight prices or set price alerts for when fares drop. With a bit of work upfront, long term travel can end up being more affordable than you think.
You need to check a bag
Here’s another one of the most outdated travel myths! By now, hopefully everybody realizes that flying carry on only is the way to go. By not checking a bag, you don’t have to pay extra or wait for your bag to come out on the carousel at baggage claim. You also don’t have to worry about the airline losing your luggage!
If packing light doesn’t come naturally to you, try watching a few Youtube videos or reading some blog posts with helpful tips (like the one below).
⇉ A Flight Attendant’s Guide to Packing Light
Travel is dangerous (especially as a solo female)
Women and solo travelers, watch out! Leaving the house (or heaven forbid, the country) is a sure-fire way to get yourself in trouble. Nowhere is as safe as your home country — especially if your home country is the United States. The locals in the places you want to visit are definitely going to take advantage of you.
Okay, I’m obviously being facetious. There are destinations that are more dangerous than others. And unfortunately, bad things can and do happen while traveling. But that doesn’t mean that you should avoid getting out and seeing the world!
It’s important to use common sense when traveling, but the world is not actually as scary and dangerous as the news makes it out to be. People from all over are kind and just want to go about their days peacefully. As long as you watch out for common scams, keep an eye on your belongings, and follow some simple safety rules, you’ll most likely be completely fine.
Duty free is always a great deal
This is one of those common misconceptions that can be true, but isn’t always.
Duty free shopping is tax free, but it isn’t necessarily cheaper. Depending on the item, it can actually be much cheaper to buy it online instead of at the airport. For items like chocolate and alcohol, prices at local supermarkets beat out the duty free shops every time.
The best way to get a good deal at a duty free shop is to purchase items that generally have little price competition (like Apple products). Because you’ll rarely find them any cheaper online, the savings you get on taxes at the airport is usually worth it.
You’re more likely to get upgraded if you’re dressed nicely
I’m not sure how this myth got started, but I’ve seen it way too many times. It might have been true in the past, but in today’s day and age, it is simply untrue.
Upgrades to business class or first class are based on several factors, none of which are how you’re dressed. Your status with the airline, price you paid for your ticket, whether you booked directly or through an OTA (online travel agency) — these can all impact your standing on the upgrade list.
Sometimes, the gate agents might have a bit of wiggle room on who they’re able to upgrade. In that case, being nice to them is always worth more than wearing fancy clothes.
⇉ Is Business Class Worth It? Confessions From A Budget Traveler
Jet lag is inevitable
Just because you’re traveling halfway around the world doesn’t necessarily mean that you’ll be jet lagged when you get there. Jet lag happens when your sleeping schedule (and circadian rhythms) get messed up from time zone changes. If you prepare yourself in advance, you’re more likely to end up well-rested!
Before an international flight, it’s a good idea to slowly adjust to your destination’s schedule. Eating during meal times and sleeping during sleep times will help you acclimate before your arrival.
Once you reach your destination, try not to sleep all day (as difficult as it may be). Lack of sleep is bad but getting too much sleep can almost be worse! These simple tips can prevent jet lag before it happens, making your trip much more enjoyable.
⇉ A Flight Attendant’s Guide to Long-Haul Flight Essentials
You’ll also love:
- 11 Sustainable Gifts for Travelers
- Should I Be A Flight Attendant? 10 Questions to Ask Yourself Before Applying
- The Ultimate 3-Week South Island New Zealand Road Trip
Thanks for reading this list of common travel myths! Is there a particular myth that grinds your gears? Leave it in the comments below!
xoxo Niki
