If you really want to know how people are dressing in other countries, watch "walk through ( insert city here ) in ( insert date ). There are tons of them on TH-cam, and you can see what people are currently wearing. It helped me realize that what I wear while traveling wasn't actually that big of a deal. It did help me dress for the climate though, lol. Bonus: helps find nice places to visit, too.
It used to be true that Europeans and Brits didn’t wear running shoes (trainers) as day wear, but having just returned from several months in Europe and the UK, running shoes are EVERYWHERE. New Balance running shoes seem to be particularly popular.
Trainers have been ubiquitous in the UK and probably Europe (although I can't say for sure) for about 40 years. We also have electricity and hot running water 🙄
@@ryanellis9325 I was addressing Nik and Allie’s assertion that wearing running shoes identifies a person as American because Europeans and Brits don’t wear them, other than for sport, which is not true.
You can’t really generalize Europe as a whole. People dress a bit different depending on where you are. Athleisure is common in Germany but not necessarily in France. Agree that loudness makes you stick out more than anything in most places.
Sorry, but I really have to disagree with a lot (not all ) of your suggestions. I’m an American living in València, Spain. Here it is very common for native Valencia women to frequently wear leggings and tights. Short skirts, cropped tops, spaghetti straps, and no bras are very, very common. Running shoes? All the time for everyone. Men, boys, girls, kids, adults, often wear logo, USA team, and fan group tee shirts. Bright colors? Yep. I will agree that in Spain baseball caps are not that common, but many hair-challenged males wear them. Finally, we see this type of dress in many cities all around Spain, large and small. This appears to be the norm, not as you suggested.
#2 takes precedent here, if you're blending in by following the things you've said here then you're good to go. Plus, you LIVE there, you're not visiting, so you know best obviously.
My wife and I just got back from a week in Valencia, and your observations are spot on. Leggings and tights were just about as common as they are in the United States. Baseball caps, while not as ubiquitous, are certainly not rare. The only significant differences I noted were the Breton stripe shirt/sweater, which is worn by both sexes in Valencia, and the puffy vest, which is almost a uniform for Valencian males, particularly when paired with a checked button-up shirt, jeans, and tennis shoes.
I agree. You see "influencers" all over social medical platforms say the same things which causes stress for some travelers about what to buy, wear and pack. Its ridiculous. And I am a tourist! If I get pickpocketed it has nothing to do with wearing leggings. It has to do with giving them an opportunity to steal from me. You often see these types of questions in trip advisor forums and thankfully people such as yourself try and debunk it as much as possible.
I was born and raised in Europe, having lived in multiple European countries and fully agree. It's easy to tell who's an American tourist, but trying hard to dress local doesn't change a thing. Plus, as always, Europe is one country. The cultural difference between Poland and Spain is arguably as big as between say the US and Switzerland. So people dress differently.
Well phooey. I am 73 yr old now and returning to my old hometown and I'll be wearing brighter than when I first immigrated west, thats for sure. Skinny trousers and yoga pants with bright tops, sandals or runners are for me. To heck with what my old school pals might say. Lifes too short to be bland...hehe. I cant wear heals anymore tho, they kinda dont match my walker..lol.
Biggest mistake Americans make is talking too loud. Really stands out. I have US family who are lovely low key people. They’ve had to learn to turn it down when they visit.
@@keouineyes, it is mostly a tourist thing, not an american one. I mean, have you see us latinos traveling? have you see a group of chinese people in tourist sites? everyone is loud and annoying when traveling 😂
It doesnt matter what you wear because as soon as you talk, take photos, look at a map and carry around luggage, you are going to be spotted as a tourist even if you wear the right clothes.
A European friend once told me it doesn't matter what you wear. We can spot an American from a kilometer away. Knowing that, I still follow basic rules like no logos.
Exactly! In some places where there are many pickpockets/scammers I understand the benefits of blending in, but because of things you mention, there's little chance of pulling it off no matter how you are dressed, so you might as well be comfortable. I mean the simple fact that you are sitting on the Spanish steps in Rome or trying to cram yourself into the square with the Trevi fountain is a dead giveaway 😂 (That said, walking around in yoga pants should be avoided anywhere to just, you know, stave off the fall of civilisation...)
But I am a tourist. They have second hand shops in Europe and get some local type items. Just avoid talking loud and obnoxious behavior and although you might stand out you will probably still be accepted. Show respect and learn a bit of the language of the country you are in, it goes a long way to be accepted. Even if you don’t speak perfectly at least you can get points for trying.
You know who looks like a tourist? All the other tourists. I walk down the street and see them, in their slightly stained clothes and shoes made for walking, not fashion, and I know that they are like me. They see me with my crumpled shirt and jeans checking my phone as I walk and they know I'm like them, we are part of a community, a culture, and while we haven't met each other, we know something about each other. We know we're both travelers.
It's also about a question of security. It's protecting yourself from thieves, or others with criminal behaviour, and avoiding being a walking target loudly. She discussed this early in the clip.
My French niece told me that a common rule for dressing is never to mix more than 3 colors. It makes deciding what to pack so easy and everything matches! Thanks for the videos, guys! Woo pig!! 😊
At one time baseball caps were not that common - and were a marker that you were American - but that is changing fast and they are becoming more popular in many parts of Europe. I no longer hesitate to wear a baseball cap although mine is plain with no logo. 😊
As a french 65 lady, well, I don't think there is a "european" wearing style. At least because the weather is so different from Portugal to Iceland. And I'm very surprised about your advices about all those forbidden things in Europe that european actually wear all the time 😂😂😂 The biggest difference I think is in behaviour.
That makes me feel a lot better. I dress modestly for the most part. You are right Americans can be loud. I say that as an American. At restaurants at times, my family is just sitting there eating and eventually we are like guess we are boring (we don’t talk a lot and know how to use indoor voices). 😃
I spent 6 months in Europe visiting 5 countries last year and saw plenty of Europeans wearing baseball hats. Formula 1 has really popularized them in recent years. So they are not out of place at all, IMO.
As a European, seeing a lot of agreement as well as disagreement here in the comments has made me think about it and realise: it's an age thing. Europeans in their 20s walk around happily in athleisure, logo t-shirts, baseball caps, running shoes, etc. - the main difference with the US is that older people here rarely do the same, so if you're guy in your 60s wearing a logo shirt and a baseball cap, or a woman in your 50s wearing leggings and sneakers, you're an American tourist. (Btw wear what you like, nobody minds.)
The advice on leggings seems very wrong here in the UK. Been traveling around and I see them everywhere and they aren't Americans. The ones I hear are speaking with British accents. Leggings are very popular in the UK.
okkkk so An Irish living in London and travel, just have to point some things out is being loud in your behaviour attracting attention. we wear leggings and ripped jeans and we wear jogging shoes/trainers for sure especially stylish ones and baseball caps when its sunny,. yes definitely more classy clothes but dont over do the change. because your behaviour is going to get you spotted. dont hold your phone out to much or an expensive camera. think items for antitheft. maybe I need to make a video of how we dress haha
Weird how Europeans don't care about looking like tourists when they come to the US. They are easy to spot too and they don't seem to care. Look, I'm gonna wear my trail runners everywhere and if that makes me look like a dork, so be it. I live in Montana and hiking is my life and that is how I dress. I am in Lisbon right now and there are a ton of gals wearing crop tops and booty shorts walking around. If some specific venue requires specific apparel I'll either wear it or not go there, but I'm not gonna wear uncomfortable things in some asinine effort to blend in. It's the big camera around my neck that mostly gives me away but it's a film camera from the 90s and I wear it around at home so sorry not sorry if anyone has a problem with it.
I saw tons of logo t-shirts and sweatshirts when I was in Europe in the fall of 2022, particularly in Ireland. Not the sort of thing that I would ever wear, but I think they are fine these days. Packing some athleisure is OK too, but time and place do make a difference.
Active wear absolutely is a thing in Europe, I see people in leggings everyday. Modesty is off the mark too. The women here dress a lot more sexy than they do in the states. Heck, many of the parks and pool areas are topless. I just saw women without their tops on at the local city park. I live and work in Europe and hang out with a ton of Europeans. They also wear baseball cap, logo shirts, athletic shoes. Been living here a year now. One of the biggest things I see just in my local area is logo shirts with references to NYC.
Many Europeans wear baseball caps, especially younger guys in Germany and Austria who love American baseball team logos and NBA team logos. Fashion choices vary across each European country so I disagree with generalizing certain fashion styles as being acceptable across all of Europe. European themselves will be quick to tell you they are not all the same and shouldn’t be lumped together. I think this a great video for starter guidance but people can and should feel comfortable wearing whatever they want so long as it doesn’t break any local laws or be viewed as offensive by religious or cultural standards.
As per usual: Europe isn't a single country or a single place. Things are really different depending on where you are. Leggins (especially thin jersey ones) is probably the only one I'd agree won't be seen anywhere I've been to. Anything else is probably alright; it's not the clothing that gives away you're a tourist. If you're really worried about not fitting in clothes-wise: just go to a Zara, Mango or HM and see what they got there in the casual wear or business wear section (aka not sports, not evening/dress up and not the jeans/denim/whatever they call that section). It's always gonne be alright.
Good advice...except the hat bit at the end. We might not watch baseball but baseball-style caps are very common in Europe, especially when it is bright & sunny.
@@patfernandes7741 My friend and his buddies on the Isle of Lewis wear them. Possible up north they're more common? Took me forever to realize what he was talking about when he mentioned 'skip caps', haha.
As someone who recently traveled to Italy for 14 days this year I have to disagree with some of these suggestions. I got lost in the weeds with these "travel bloggers" telling us not to look like tourists. To be honest, y'all wear what is comfy and bring nice things to wear to museums and dinner. Americans know how to dress. We are not bumbling idiots. We never got "targeted and wore nice but comfortable clothes. In my opinion Birkenstocks are not stylish and look sloppy. I would opt for some Tory Burch Millers for a comfortable sandal option.
Unfortunately many American tourists are bumbling idiots. Clothing is part of this, but more glaring is being oblivious to the culture, especially food. I cannot count the number of people who complained that the only thing that they liked on a tapas menu in Spain was jamon and patatas bravas.
I'm going to a festival in NL where most everyone is in costume, so I can wear whatever I feel like. I don't follow any trends, so I'm pretty bland on the streets. Yeah, I might be walking around with my bags but since it will be in August so will a lot of other people (on their way to the train station).
I live in Rome and Romans and southern Italians in general wear lots of color, especially in the summer. You’ll roast to death here if you wear black in 104 degree weather. And EVERYONE wears sneakers, otherwise you could literally kill yourself on the old, cobblestone streets of Rome. Even in fashionable Milan, sneakers are literally everywhere. Birkenstock are more common in the summer, but Italians wear their beautiful outfits with sneakers. This is the 2nd TH-cam I see telling American tourists not to wear sneakers. I really don’t understand what these TH-camrs are seeing when they come here. Given how treacherous some of the old streets are, this is actually very unwise and potentially dangerous advice.
Years ago I visited relatives in a rural French village. I was wearing khakis and polos because they're comfortable. On a walk I studied other men to check local habits. Many wore the same and looked like they shop at LL Bean. I was very surprised. That was years ago before skinny jeans and pointy shoes. Agreeing that these articles often are irrelevant or off the mark.
I did notice a lack of hats in sunny Madrid and Segovia a couple of years ago. I wore a woven hat to protect my face and eyes from the baking sun but I was definitely one of the only women wearing one.
I agree that if you are out in museums and sightseeing in cities and towns maybe leave the leggings in your suitcase but I can't see what else to wear if you're out hiking etc.
I feel like she said to bring athletic shoes instead of heels but in the very next clip said to not wear running shoes for general daily use. Hmmmm…. Not sure that there is any significant difference in appearance between the two? The most comfortable and supportive shoes for walking long distances are running shoes.
I am European and have both travelled and lived in many European countries. 80% of what’s in this video is so inaccurate and so typically American to assume about Europe. Europe is such a vast continent and one rule does not fit all. If you try to bend backwards for every country you visit in Europe you will get nowhere. We don’t care about your looks as long as you are a nice human being.
Last year while traveling in Europe I noticed many Europeans wearing baseball caps so maybe they are copying our style a bit 🤷♀️ Another thing, running shoes are more common. Our guide in Albania said he could pick out what country you’re from by the brand you’re wearing. He said Americans like Hokas, most Europeans were wearing adidas.
Overkill on Merino wool advertising. I realize it pays your bills, but it’s expensive!! I buy different clothes for each trip, and I don’t want to be wearing the same thing all the time.
The baseball hat really hurt. But I tend to wear chelsea boots with my jeans. And I'm working on wearing solid t-shirts. But my go-to is a button up with either dark wash jeans or black chinos. What hats do y'all recommend? I'm Andrew. I live in the Washington, DC area (Fairfax County, Virginia).
Good advice. I've been to 60 countries and sadly, I can always pick out my fellow Americans. Europeans and South Americans are pretty forgiving of us and some of our clothing choices, but the ones that make me nuts are folks that go to Middle Eastern countries and dress in tight leggings and tank tops and then are shocked when refused entry into a place. Last summer I saw one Karen lose her cool when they made her put on a shawl before she could visit a mosque for a tour.
Shocking the amount of locals wearing leggings and athletic gear in Warsaw Frankfurt, Lublin and Krakow so far. I think it is becoming less of an issue. Also men wearing ball caps and khakis is not that unusual for Europeans. Not everyone or everywhere but also not so rare as to stand out. The rest is pretty spot on for blending in.
dress for the weather. Dress to avoid chafing, blisters, sunburn and overheating. Dress to avoid ironing, dry cleaning. then I might bother to worry about whether some stranger thinks I'm a tourist or an accountant or a Protestant or a college graduate or single.
On the subject of hats in general, not just baseball caps. Please do not ware them indoors, especially in churches or at the dining table as it is considered rude and disrespectful. The only possible exception is woolly/beanie hats in say skiing resorts or similar.
People also wear white shoes in Europe... I saw people wear them in Rome in March 2023, in France in the summer of 2023, and in Athens, London and Northern England in the last few months. And I have very light sensitive eyes, and it can get VERY sunny in Finland (where I live) in the spring and summer, so I wear sunglasses regularly in the warmer months.
Note: Yours Truly is not an american. In 2024 you still have people outing themselves as tourists "questionable tourists" by their automatic defensive attitude by topics or clips discussing attire and actions when visiting places. Within seconds, they take it as a threat to who they are. Me, me, me. However, remember it is another country(ies) and culture you're visiting - not down the street in your hometown or country. You are a guest. And these places are not a Disneyworld for your pleasure. These places are real life. I sum it up as it being a question of: Respect, and also your SECURITY/Safety. You don't want to be a target. Remember, European countries unfortunately have made wrong decisions the past decades, and there are people let in who have corrupt behaviour. "When in Rome, do as Romans do". A wonderful video and topic you've put together, thank you!
I would add do not talk over each other in a restaurant, or anywhere for that matter. Nothing identifies you more than this as an American than everyone talking at once!
It seems people from the United States have a hard time blending in anywhere. Here in Costa Rica you can spot them very easily, because they wear very short dresses or shorts and flip flops, anywhere, anytime. We don’t dress like that unless we’re at the beach … and Costa Rica has many things besides beaches!
I understand trying not to stick out too much when traveling abroad. And I understand dressing up a little when going to a nice restaurant or church type of thing. However, it is ridiculous to expect people to buy an entire new wardrobe to wear when traveling Europe, or else the locals will judge you/be offended. Buying a new wardrobe in addition to the cost of traveling to Europe is really expensive. And ridiculous. I am all for dressing decently but if all you have are jeans and some nicer dress pants, then Europeans are just going to have to suck it up and get over it.
Based on the comments I conclude that this video content is a wide miss. Sounds like another merino wool commercial. Also having just returned from Greece and Italy I saw lots of non-American folks wear g ball caps.
Baseball caps are coming into fashion for young women in Europe this summer. We are starting to see more denim jackets in Germany the last couple of years, but before then, my jean jacket stuck out like a sore thumb here. Good advice!
Very, very useful and realistic advice. Thank you for the practical information. It is important. All the trouble to go to Europe, why tempt fate. Better to help trouble look somewhere else. Blending in is a far better way to safely enjoy yourself.
Try a larger 6-10L sling from brands like Aer, Nomatic, Alpaka, Peak Design, or Evergoods. Well designed with great features and utility. FWIW my EDC bag is a 1L from Nomatic I take either my 3L Aer Sling or Aer Go Pack backpack when I travel internationally.
I dont understand the point of these videos at all. Wear according To climate In each places and with comfortable shoes. People can always spot a tourist. So what? Europeans spot even where the People are from. And pickpockets exist only In places like Paris, Rome, Brussels... And only if you are careless.
KI produces tons of these videos that are ridiculous in the eyes of many europeans. Interest for our world is much more important than focus on individual "right" styling 🙈
Tell him if he wants to Be Home, he should Stay Home, and you have a ball traveling and being chic! (At 66, I am my best travel company, and have never worried about safety.)
Let him have his hat and enjoy himself. Hats are very common. We are not as strange as this video makes us out to be. In fact, most of this advice is inaccurate. The one thing we care the most about is your attitude, don’t be too loud and you will blend.
To debunk this bullshit - people around instantly know you are a tourist - of different race, different features, looking at the map, or looking around confused, taking photos of anything that local guys don't care about, not to heading somewhere (bar, work, bus stop) straight ahead. Athleisure is the trend all around Europe, ripped jeans fall slowly but still here, graphic print is very popular, designer's logo can be seen anywhere, people don't know about the difference between athletic and casual shoes, bum bags never die and the last - European are not idiots. They cover their heads with various hats or caps. Baseball caps are not just American fashion only. You are not at the Paris Fashion Week, you are in Europe, among people who are dressed as good/bad as you. I don't like all these I-Know-Better-Than-You-Peasants-And-I-Will-Tell-You people. If you want to go somewhere and not be dressed like an idiot - check information about climate and recent weather predictions for the given location. Pack clothes according to it but be prepared for unexpected changes - lighter clothes, warmer clothes, raincoat, sun crea,m and shoes. Just comfortable low-heeled shoes or flat shoes will be fine. Don't be afraid 10000 steps a day in the city is not a Himalayan trek.
I looked it up for a possible Mediterranean cruise that my dad and I are thinking about taking next year. Saw the price tag and I was like hell no that is toooo pricey for me. 😂
This is daft. As soon as you open your mouths you'll be clocked. Much better advice is to lower your normal speaking tone by 10-20 decibels, don't expect preference, don't argue with or demean the locals unless you want to truly experience our healthcare systems.
Nothing wrong with looking like an American tourist. Number one rule to fit in while you are in Switzerland: Learn how to speak quietly, tone your voice down. Number two: Don’t buy water. Avoid constant hydration, don‘t carry water bottles around. We have drinkng fountains everywhere - and we prefer wine! 😁
I completely agree about needing to up your game. I insisted with our teenage girls in 1996 that they leave all those baggy sweats & ball caps at home, and find some black, nicely fitting clothes. They squawked, "I just want to be comfortable!" but complied. We went to France during April break, and they were mortified by the loud, obnoxious American school groups of baggy-clothed teens slouching around, and were so happy that I Forced them. Through the decades, they share my love of adventures in traveling, and we avoid Groups like the plague. Folks can still spot us as Americans (my chubby cheeks!), but how nice to be considered a good-will ambassador, willing to speak (or at least try) other languages, and observe our surroundings rather than insist upon American ways reigning. Women? Learn to tie a scarf in interesting ways. Men? Dump those embarrassing caps, ESPECIALLY in restaurants!!! If you underpack, you can always bring home some sartorial souvenirs! (And in French-speaking lands at least, ALWAYS give a Bonjour monsieur/madame when entering ANY business, even busses. It tops every survey of what French folks resent about Americans, that we don't greet them politely.) Bonnes aventures !
I would say the biggest thing is not dressing to your class. Certain clothes are associated with certain social background. Nothing screams American more than sneakers on the over 35. Or with "smart" pants
I walked around Europe with a speedo and a wife beater T shirt. EVERYONE came over to get a picture or say hello. I got so many free drinks I was plastered half the time and more women went out with me than I can count. Women said they were tired of uptight European men in their chinos and sensible shoes 💁♂️🩲
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If you really want to know how people are dressing in other countries, watch "walk through ( insert city here ) in ( insert date ). There are tons of them on TH-cam, and you can see what people are currently wearing. It helped me realize that what I wear while traveling wasn't actually that big of a deal. It did help me dress for the climate though, lol. Bonus: helps find nice places to visit, too.
I love those videos!
It used to be true that Europeans and Brits didn’t wear running shoes (trainers) as day wear, but having just returned from several months in Europe and the UK, running shoes are EVERYWHERE. New Balance running shoes seem to be particularly popular.
Trainers have been ubiquitous in the UK and probably Europe (although I can't say for sure) for about 40 years. We also have electricity and hot running water 🙄
@@ryanellis9325 I was addressing Nik and Allie’s assertion that wearing running shoes identifies a person as American because Europeans and Brits don’t wear them, other than for sport, which is not true.
You can’t really generalize Europe as a whole. People dress a bit different depending on where you are. Athleisure is common in Germany but not necessarily in France. Agree that loudness makes you stick out more than anything in most places.
Sorry, but I really have to disagree with a lot (not all ) of your suggestions. I’m an American living in València, Spain. Here it is very common for native Valencia women to frequently wear leggings and tights. Short skirts, cropped tops, spaghetti straps, and no bras are very, very common. Running shoes? All the time for everyone. Men, boys, girls, kids, adults, often wear logo, USA team, and fan group tee shirts. Bright colors? Yep. I will agree that in Spain baseball caps are not that common, but many hair-challenged males wear them. Finally, we see this type of dress in many cities all around Spain, large and small. This appears to be the norm, not as you suggested.
#2 takes precedent here, if you're blending in by following the things you've said here then you're good to go. Plus, you LIVE there, you're not visiting, so you know best obviously.
My wife and I just got back from a week in Valencia, and your observations are spot on. Leggings and tights were just about as common as they are in the United States. Baseball caps, while not as ubiquitous, are certainly not rare. The only significant differences I noted were the Breton stripe shirt/sweater, which is worn by both sexes in Valencia, and the puffy vest, which is almost a uniform for Valencian males, particularly when paired with a checked button-up shirt, jeans, and tennis shoes.
I agree. You see "influencers" all over social medical platforms say the same things which causes stress for some travelers about what to buy, wear and pack. Its ridiculous. And I am a tourist! If I get pickpocketed it has nothing to do with wearing leggings. It has to do with giving them an opportunity to steal from me. You often see these types of questions in trip advisor forums and thankfully people such as yourself try and debunk it as much as possible.
I was born and raised in Europe, having lived in multiple European countries and fully agree. It's easy to tell who's an American tourist, but trying hard to dress local doesn't change a thing.
Plus, as always, Europe is one country. The cultural difference between Poland and Spain is arguably as big as between say the US and Switzerland. So people dress differently.
how tacky!
Well phooey. I am 73 yr old now and returning to my old hometown and I'll be wearing brighter than when I first immigrated west, thats for sure. Skinny trousers and yoga pants with bright tops, sandals or runners are for me. To heck with what my old school pals might say. Lifes too short to be bland...hehe. I cant wear heals anymore tho, they kinda dont match my walker..lol.
Biggest mistake Americans make is talking too loud. Really stands out. I have US family who are lovely low key people. They’ve had to learn to turn it down when they visit.
When I lived in Washington, D.C. on the metro, it would be so quiet until European tourists were on the train and they were pretty loud.
@@keouineyes, it is mostly a tourist thing, not an american one.
I mean, have you see us latinos traveling? have you see a group of chinese people in tourist sites? everyone is loud and annoying when traveling 😂
It doesnt matter what you wear because as soon as you talk, take photos, look at a map and carry around luggage, you are going to be spotted as a tourist even if you wear the right clothes.
A European friend once told me it doesn't matter what you wear. We can spot an American from a kilometer away. Knowing that, I still follow basic rules like no logos.
Exactly! In some places where there are many pickpockets/scammers I understand the benefits of blending in, but because of things you mention, there's little chance of pulling it off no matter how you are dressed, so you might as well be comfortable. I mean the simple fact that you are sitting on the Spanish steps in Rome or trying to cram yourself into the square with the Trevi fountain is a dead giveaway 😂 (That said, walking around in yoga pants should be avoided anywhere to just, you know, stave off the fall of civilisation...)
Yes but the other factor remains: respect.
But I am a tourist. They have second hand shops in Europe and get some local type items. Just avoid talking loud and obnoxious behavior and although you might stand out you will probably still be accepted. Show respect and learn a bit of the language of the country you are in, it goes a long way to be accepted. Even if you don’t speak perfectly at least you can get points for trying.
Be yourself!
I don't give a damn if I'm not accepted, if I'm paying my trip I will be myself. If I don't know the language they can suck it.
You know who looks like a tourist? All the other tourists. I walk down the street and see them, in their slightly stained clothes and shoes made for walking, not fashion, and I know that they are like me. They see me with my crumpled shirt and jeans checking my phone as I walk and they know I'm like them, we are part of a community, a culture, and while we haven't met each other, we know something about each other. We know we're both travelers.
You should be yourself. But if you are an obnoxious dick to begin with that is going to be a problem for you.
It's also about a question of security. It's protecting yourself from thieves, or others with criminal behaviour, and avoiding being a walking target loudly. She discussed this early in the clip.
My French niece told me that a common rule for dressing is never to mix more than 3 colors. It makes deciding what to pack so easy and everything matches! Thanks for the videos, guys! Woo pig!! 😊
Flip flops and chunky sandals are actually very much in style this season.
Is there a companion video in German that says “don’t wear Speedos on American beaches?”
At one time baseball caps were not that common - and were a marker that you were American - but that is changing fast and they are becoming more popular in many parts of Europe. I no longer hesitate to wear a baseball cap although mine is plain with no logo. 😊
As a french 65 lady, well, I don't think there is a "european" wearing style. At least because the weather is so different from Portugal to Iceland. And I'm very surprised about your advices about all those forbidden things in Europe that european actually wear all the time 😂😂😂 The biggest difference I think is in behaviour.
That makes me feel a lot better. I dress modestly for the most part. You are right Americans can be loud. I say that as an American. At restaurants at times, my family is just sitting there eating and eventually we are like guess we are boring (we don’t talk a lot and know how to use indoor voices). 😃
I just got back from Porto and I saw many Portuguese guys wear baseball caps. They are more common than you think
I spent 6 months in Europe visiting 5 countries last year and saw plenty of Europeans wearing baseball hats. Formula 1 has really popularized them in recent years. So they are not out of place at all, IMO.
Agree 100%.
Agree, been living here for a year now. A lot of the things mention I think are off the mark.
As a European, seeing a lot of agreement as well as disagreement here in the comments has made me think about it and realise: it's an age thing. Europeans in their 20s walk around happily in athleisure, logo t-shirts, baseball caps, running shoes, etc. - the main difference with the US is that older people here rarely do the same, so if you're guy in your 60s wearing a logo shirt and a baseball cap, or a woman in your 50s wearing leggings and sneakers, you're an American tourist. (Btw wear what you like, nobody minds.)
The advice on leggings seems very wrong here in the UK. Been traveling around and I see them everywhere and they aren't Americans. The ones I hear are speaking with British accents. Leggings are very popular in the UK.
Not the classy ones.
Who cares about class??? I’m on vacation for my comfort not anyone else’s.
Gym clothes are good for gym
@@szudy76depends on how you want people to respond to you as well ( note : depends on your complete outfit as well not just the Leggings)
okkkk so An Irish living in London and travel, just have to point some things out is being loud in your behaviour attracting attention. we wear leggings and ripped jeans and we wear jogging shoes/trainers for sure especially stylish ones and baseball caps when its sunny,. yes definitely more classy clothes but dont over do the change. because your behaviour is going to get you spotted. dont hold your phone out to much or an expensive camera. think items for antitheft. maybe I need to make a video of how we dress haha
Weird how Europeans don't care about looking like tourists when they come to the US. They are easy to spot too and they don't seem to care. Look, I'm gonna wear my trail runners everywhere and if that makes me look like a dork, so be it. I live in Montana and hiking is my life and that is how I dress. I am in Lisbon right now and there are a ton of gals wearing crop tops and booty shorts walking around. If some specific venue requires specific apparel I'll either wear it or not go there, but I'm not gonna wear uncomfortable things in some asinine effort to blend in. It's the big camera around my neck that mostly gives me away but it's a film camera from the 90s and I wear it around at home so sorry not sorry if anyone has a problem with it.
You can spot the Europeans because they don’t wear American styled clothes. They seem to wear nicer clothes that are neutral.
Curious how many times you have been to Europe and where you've been?
We do wear active wear. And logos
I saw tons of logo t-shirts and sweatshirts when I was in Europe in the fall of 2022, particularly in Ireland. Not the sort of thing that I would ever wear, but I think they are fine these days. Packing some athleisure is OK too, but time and place do make a difference.
Active wear absolutely is a thing in Europe, I see people in leggings everyday. Modesty is off the mark too. The women here dress a lot more sexy than they do in the states. Heck, many of the parks and pool areas are topless. I just saw women without their tops on at the local city park. I live and work in Europe and hang out with a ton of Europeans. They also wear baseball cap, logo shirts, athletic shoes. Been living here a year now. One of the biggest things I see just in my local area is logo shirts with references to NYC.
Many Europeans wear baseball caps, especially younger guys in Germany and Austria who love American baseball team logos and NBA team logos. Fashion choices vary across each European country so I disagree with generalizing certain fashion styles as being acceptable across all of Europe. European themselves will be quick to tell you they are not all the same and shouldn’t be lumped together. I think this a great video for starter guidance but people can and should feel comfortable wearing whatever they want so long as it doesn’t break any local laws or be viewed as offensive by religious or cultural standards.
Love your videos! Where did you get your muslin style white & olive colored tops? I love them! Thank you! 🤗
As per usual: Europe isn't a single country or a single place. Things are really different depending on where you are. Leggins (especially thin jersey ones) is probably the only one I'd agree won't be seen anywhere I've been to. Anything else is probably alright; it's not the clothing that gives away you're a tourist.
If you're really worried about not fitting in clothes-wise: just go to a Zara, Mango or HM and see what they got there in the casual wear or business wear section (aka not sports, not evening/dress up and not the jeans/denim/whatever they call that section). It's always gonne be alright.
Good advice...except the hat bit at the end. We might not watch baseball but baseball-style caps are very common in Europe, especially when it is bright & sunny.
Not common in UK
I would not recommend using a baseball cap in Europe.
In bright and sunny weather just wear sunglasses
@@patfernandes7741 My friend and his buddies on the Isle of Lewis wear them. Possible up north they're more common? Took me forever to realize what he was talking about when he mentioned 'skip caps', haha.
As someone who recently traveled to Italy for 14 days this year I have to disagree with some of these suggestions. I got lost in the weeds with these "travel bloggers" telling us not to look like tourists. To be honest, y'all wear what is comfy and bring nice things to wear to museums and dinner. Americans know how to dress. We are not bumbling idiots. We never got "targeted and wore nice but comfortable clothes. In my opinion Birkenstocks are not stylish and look sloppy. I would opt for some Tory Burch Millers for a comfortable sandal option.
I like some Birkenstocks, but some of them rub my feet raw :D
Unfortunately many American tourists are bumbling idiots. Clothing is part of this, but more glaring is being oblivious to the culture, especially food. I cannot count the number of people who complained that the only thing that they liked on a tapas menu in Spain was jamon and patatas bravas.
Enjoy your informative vids and Nik wearing Razorback gear is the icing on the cake. Subscribed. WPS!
I'm going to a festival in NL where most everyone is in costume, so I can wear whatever I feel like. I don't follow any trends, so I'm pretty bland on the streets. Yeah, I might be walking around with my bags but since it will be in August so will a lot of other people (on their way to the train station).
Love Nik rockin the Razorback gear!! Go HOGS!!!
I live in Rome and Romans and southern Italians in general wear lots of color, especially in the summer. You’ll roast to death here if you wear black in 104 degree weather. And EVERYONE wears sneakers, otherwise you could literally kill yourself on the old, cobblestone streets of Rome. Even in fashionable Milan, sneakers are literally everywhere. Birkenstock are more common in the summer, but Italians wear their beautiful outfits with sneakers. This is the 2nd TH-cam I see telling American tourists not to wear sneakers. I really don’t understand what these TH-camrs are seeing when they come here. Given how treacherous some of the old streets are, this is actually very unwise and potentially dangerous advice.
In Europe you need a good sneakers or you feet will bleed :(
Europeans wear cargo pants and athletic shoes. I feel like a lot of these how not to look like a tourist videos are outdated.
Years ago I visited relatives in a rural French village. I was wearing khakis and polos because they're comfortable. On a walk I studied other men to check local habits. Many wore the same and looked like they shop at LL Bean. I was very surprised. That was years ago before skinny jeans and pointy shoes. Agreeing that these articles often are irrelevant or off the mark.
I did notice a lack of hats in sunny Madrid and Segovia a couple of years ago. I wore a woven hat to protect my face and eyes from the baking sun but I was definitely one of the only women wearing one.
I agree that if you are out in museums and sightseeing in cities and towns maybe leave the leggings in your suitcase but I can't see what else to wear if you're out hiking etc.
I feel like she said to bring athletic shoes instead of heels but in the very next clip said to not wear running shoes for general daily use. Hmmmm…. Not sure that there is any significant difference in appearance between the two? The most comfortable and supportive shoes for walking long distances are running shoes.
I am European and have both travelled and lived in many European countries. 80% of what’s in this video is so inaccurate and so typically American to assume about Europe. Europe is such a vast continent and one rule does not fit all. If you try to bend backwards for every country you visit in Europe you will get nowhere. We don’t care about your looks as long as you are a nice human being.
Last year while traveling in Europe I noticed many Europeans wearing baseball caps so maybe they are copying our style a bit 🤷♀️
Another thing, running shoes are more common. Our guide in Albania said he could pick out what country you’re from by the brand you’re wearing. He said Americans like Hokas, most Europeans were wearing adidas.
Forget it. I’m gonna wear a fanny pack. I’ll wear it higher up, around by my chest - to protect against pick pockets.
Overkill on Merino wool advertising. I realize it pays your bills, but it’s expensive!! I buy different clothes for each trip, and I don’t want to be wearing the same thing all the time.
So my SO has no hair and burns easily (even with sunscreen). What type of hat would work for Europe?
a ball cap with no logo works well
The baseball hat really hurt. But I tend to wear chelsea boots with my jeans. And I'm working on wearing solid t-shirts. But my go-to is a button up with either dark wash jeans or black chinos. What hats do y'all recommend? I'm Andrew. I live in the Washington, DC area (Fairfax County, Virginia).
Good advice. I've been to 60 countries and sadly, I can always pick out my fellow Americans. Europeans and South Americans are pretty forgiving of us and some of our clothing choices, but the ones that make me nuts are folks that go to Middle Eastern countries and dress in tight leggings and tank tops and then are shocked when refused entry into a place. Last summer I saw one Karen lose her cool when they made her put on a shawl before she could visit a mosque for a tour.
Shocking the amount of locals wearing leggings and athletic gear in Warsaw Frankfurt, Lublin and Krakow so far. I think it is becoming less of an issue. Also men wearing ball caps and khakis is not that unusual for Europeans. Not everyone or everywhere but also not so rare as to stand out. The rest is pretty spot on for blending in.
TBH, regardless of how You dress, taking pictures at every single corner and entering tourist traps give away the tourist wibe. Also - the language
dress for the weather. Dress to avoid chafing, blisters, sunburn and overheating. Dress to avoid ironing, dry cleaning. then I might bother to worry about whether some stranger thinks I'm a tourist or an accountant or a Protestant or a college graduate or single.
Three years mid 80's In Europe no matter clothing local or S.E. Tennessee design Tourist Aura Abound.
Any details on that scarf? It’s cute. 5:20
On the subject of hats in general, not just baseball caps. Please do not ware them indoors, especially in churches or at the dining table as it is considered rude and disrespectful. The only possible exception is woolly/beanie hats in say skiing resorts or similar.
Great tips!
completely false about the caps.
where can you get kids birkenstocks????
Ty so much! QUESTION: Don't you guys use backpacks? Isn't such a BIG red "I'm a tourist" flag??
Americans uses sunglasses all the time. Not just while driving or on the beach.
Also, they have white shoes.
People also wear white shoes in Europe... I saw people wear them in Rome in March 2023, in France in the summer of 2023, and in Athens, London and Northern England in the last few months. And I have very light sensitive eyes, and it can get VERY sunny in Finland (where I live) in the spring and summer, so I wear sunglasses regularly in the warmer months.
Europeans also wear sunglasses and white shoes.
I'm from Brazil, and in train I was only guy with sunglasses 😂
Note: Yours Truly is not an american.
In 2024 you still have people outing themselves as tourists "questionable tourists" by their automatic defensive attitude by topics or clips discussing attire and actions when visiting places. Within seconds, they take it as a threat to who they are. Me, me, me. However, remember it is another country(ies) and culture you're visiting - not down the street in your hometown or country. You are a guest. And these places are not a Disneyworld for your pleasure. These places are real life. I sum it up as it being a question of: Respect, and also your SECURITY/Safety. You don't want to be a target. Remember, European countries unfortunately have made wrong decisions the past decades, and there are people let in who have corrupt behaviour. "When in Rome, do as Romans do". A wonderful video and topic you've put together, thank you!
I would add do not talk over each other in a restaurant, or anywhere for that matter. Nothing identifies you more than this as an American than everyone talking at once!
I think that is just common curiosity. I’m American but that is just rude to do that sort of thing.
It seems people from the United States have a hard time blending in anywhere. Here in Costa Rica you can spot them very easily, because they wear very short dresses or shorts and flip flops, anywhere, anytime. We don’t dress like that unless we’re at the beach … and Costa Rica has many things besides beaches!
Wow, this is so outdated. Baseball caps and athletic wear is very, very common.
Baseball cap I just go with a black with no logo of any kind.
I understand trying not to stick out too much when traveling abroad. And I understand dressing up a little when going to a nice restaurant or church type of thing. However, it is ridiculous to expect people to buy an entire new wardrobe to wear when traveling Europe, or else the locals will judge you/be offended. Buying a new wardrobe in addition to the cost of traveling to Europe is really expensive. And ridiculous. I am all for dressing decently but if all you have are jeans and some nicer dress pants, then Europeans are just going to have to suck it up and get over it.
Nobody is going to be offended by what tourists wear anywhere
Based on the comments I conclude that this video content is a wide miss. Sounds like another merino wool commercial. Also having just returned from Greece and Italy I saw lots of non-American folks wear g ball caps.
not a dress or skirt person, i only wear acics or converse 🤷♀
Baseball caps are coming into fashion for young women in Europe this summer. We are starting to see more denim jackets in Germany the last couple of years, but before then, my jean jacket stuck out like a sore thumb here. Good advice!
I have a pair of solid white Hokas would that stand out?
Being bald I have to wear a baseball cap.
Very, very useful and realistic advice. Thank you for the practical information. It is important. All the trouble to go to Europe, why tempt fate. Better to help trouble look somewhere else. Blending in is a far better way to safely enjoy yourself.
this was so helpful
I liked your shoulder bag rather than a day pack, do you have suggestions that are masculine.
Try a larger 6-10L sling from brands like Aer, Nomatic, Alpaka, Peak Design, or Evergoods. Well designed with great features and utility. FWIW my EDC bag is a 1L from Nomatic I take either my 3L Aer Sling or Aer Go Pack backpack when I travel internationally.
My husband carries a messenger bag.
Also just being in shape. Most Americans stand out just based on general fitness compared to the typical European
I dont understand the point of these videos at all. Wear according To climate In each places and with comfortable shoes. People can always spot a tourist. So what? Europeans spot even where the People are from. And pickpockets exist only In places like Paris, Rome, Brussels... And only if you are careless.
Why not say North America? You might have gotten a sub.
sorry i´m from Europe Belgium and always wear bright colors so this is not true and men yes buy a real hat not a cap
Leggings shouldn’t be worn here either. And if you must wear a long sweater or shirt, please.
KI produces tons of these videos that are ridiculous in the eyes of many europeans.
Interest for our world is much more important than focus on individual "right" styling 🙈
Great advice! What kind of hat could a man wear if he's addicted to baseball caps? I need to re-train my husband (70 yo). Thanks!@
Tell him if he wants to Be Home, he should Stay Home, and you have a ball traveling and being chic! (At 66, I am my best travel company, and have never worried about safety.)
@@cjyreed8321 I was actually just asking about hats. 😂
Let him have his hat and enjoy himself. Hats are very common. We are not as strange as this video makes us out to be. In fact, most of this advice is inaccurate. The one thing we care the most about is your attitude, don’t be too loud and you will blend.
Wear a baseball cap if he wants to, I live here, it’s really not an issue.
But I’m Asian. How tf am I supposed to blend as an European? I bet local Asian European get ask where you from.
I'm asian so I do look like a tourist 😂
I honestly don’t care
To debunk this bullshit - people around instantly know you are a tourist - of different race, different features, looking at the map, or looking around confused, taking photos of anything that local guys don't care about, not to heading somewhere (bar, work, bus stop) straight ahead. Athleisure is the trend all around Europe, ripped jeans fall slowly but still here, graphic print is very popular, designer's logo can be seen anywhere, people don't know about the difference between athletic and casual shoes, bum bags never die and the last - European are not idiots. They cover their heads with various hats or caps. Baseball caps are not just American fashion only. You are not at the Paris Fashion Week, you are in Europe, among people who are dressed as good/bad as you. I don't like all these I-Know-Better-Than-You-Peasants-And-I-Will-Tell-You people.
If you want to go somewhere and not be dressed like an idiot - check information about climate and recent weather predictions for the given location. Pack clothes according to it but be prepared for unexpected changes - lighter clothes, warmer clothes, raincoat, sun crea,m and shoes. Just comfortable low-heeled shoes or flat shoes will be fine. Don't be afraid 10000 steps a day in the city is not a Himalayan trek.
Who can afford unbound Marino? 😂😂
I looked it up for a possible Mediterranean cruise that my dad and I are thinking about taking next year. Saw the price tag and I was like hell no that is toooo pricey for me. 😂
@@HollyPlake It's easy to promote when you get it for free! I'm sure they're awesome...but its a no for me :(
About 95% of this is just NOT true! The running shoes, hats, logo tee shirts, active wear, leggings, color choices, etc.
This is daft. As soon as you open your mouths you'll be clocked. Much better advice is to lower your normal speaking tone by 10-20 decibels, don't expect preference, don't argue with or demean the locals unless you want to truly experience our healthcare systems.
Nothing wrong with looking like an American tourist. Number one rule to fit in while you are in Switzerland: Learn how to speak quietly, tone your voice down. Number two: Don’t buy water. Avoid constant hydration, don‘t carry water bottles around. We have drinkng fountains everywhere - and we prefer wine! 😁
Damn, why does Europe have to be such a buzzkill? Guess I won't be going there anytime soon... 😂
Really doesn’t reflect what we wear
While I think that some of this is over the top if you think that Europe is a buzzkill you might be better off at Disney or someplace like Branson.
I completely agree about needing to up your game. I insisted with our teenage girls in 1996 that they leave all those baggy sweats & ball caps at home, and find some black, nicely fitting clothes. They squawked, "I just want to be comfortable!" but complied. We went to France during April break, and they were mortified by the loud, obnoxious American school groups of baggy-clothed teens slouching around, and were so happy that I Forced them. Through the decades, they share my love of adventures in traveling, and we avoid Groups like the plague. Folks can still spot us as Americans (my chubby cheeks!), but how nice to be considered a good-will ambassador, willing to speak (or at least try) other languages, and observe our surroundings rather than insist upon American ways reigning. Women? Learn to tie a scarf in interesting ways. Men? Dump those embarrassing caps, ESPECIALLY in restaurants!!! If you underpack, you can always bring home some sartorial souvenirs! (And in French-speaking lands at least, ALWAYS give a Bonjour monsieur/madame when entering ANY business, even busses. It tops every survey of what French folks resent about Americans, that we don't greet them politely.) Bonnes aventures !
I only wear gym clothes at the gym.....but I am part French, part Japanese.... so....
LOL
I live in Germany and we are constantly wearing leggings in public but NEVER a fanny pack. That is a dead giveaway for sure.
Sorry, this look is boring
I would say the biggest thing is not dressing to your class. Certain clothes are associated with certain social background. Nothing screams American more than sneakers on the over 35. Or with "smart" pants
Leggings should be outlawed anywhere!!!!!!!!!
If you see someone with leggings in Portugal, have 90% chance of being a Brazilian LoL And so I learned to wear gym clothes, only in the gym 🤭
Cool story bro Ill wear whatever I want its my vacation
I walked around Europe with a speedo and a wife beater T shirt. EVERYONE came over to get a picture or say hello. I got so many free drinks I was plastered half the time and more women went out with me than I can count. Women said they were tired of uptight European men in their chinos and sensible shoes 💁♂️🩲