How I Blend in Like a Local While Traveling Abroad

When you travel abroad and get off the plane in a foreign place, breathe in the new air, and realize that you will be the outsider for the next few days or weeks, you experience a peculiar mixture of excitement and vulnerability. Admittedly, I’ve also experienced those excruciatingly obvious “tourist” moments. You know the ones: trying to figure out the map while standing in the middle of a busy street, or dressing in a way that makes every local immediately assume you’re not from here.

As someone who appreciates both comfort and style, I’ve found that how you dress and present yourself can significantly affect how you feel about a new location.

Here’s what I’ve learned.

Look Before You Leap

I made the rookie error of looking like a travel advertisement on my first trip to Barcelona, complete with a bright t-shirt, eye-catching sneakers, and a camera around my neck. I discovered in a matter of minutes that I was the only one wearing that attire. With their earthy tones, linen shirts, and basic trousers, the people who actually lived in Spain looked effortlessly chic.

I now set out a day to observe whenever I arrive somewhere new. I pay attention to how people move, dress, and even handle their purses and other items. Do they dress well, or is the atmosphere more laid back? Are jackets oversized or tailored? You can learn a lot about the local way of life from these little touches. It’s simpler to strike your own balance between comfort and blending in once you recognize them.

Adapt Your Style

In my opinion, the best tourists adapt to local fashion rather than imitate it. For example, I observed the style’s practicality while in Ireland, where the weather can change dramatically in 10 minutes – a lot of outfits consisted of robust boots, waterproof coats, and wool sweaters.

That’s how I discovered an Irish flat cap on ShamrockGift, which has become my favorite travel item. It wasn’t an impulsive purchase made for tourists, but a proper fit for the surroundings. It all made sense: the texture, the craftsmanship, and the way it blocked the wind during walks along the seaside. To my amazement, when locals saw it, they nodded in appreciation.

Pack Smart

Traveling became much simpler after I stopped overpacking, which took some time to get used to. Selecting items that go well together, neutral hues to mix and match, straightforward layers, and apparel that can withstand some wear is crucial.

One pair of dark pants, a few shirts, one or two sweaters, and a rain-resistant jacket make up my vacation wardrobe. Leather shoes, a scarf for colder climes, and a decent flat cap complete the look.

Wherever you go, you’ll find that most locals wear modest, confident clothing. Seldom do you see them carrying half of their closet or being overburdened with accessories. You automatically blend in when you know just what you need, neither more nor less.

• Read our guide to packing your hats without ruining them!

Walk with Purpose (Even When You’re Lost)

Standing in the middle of a busy roadway and making circles is the epitome of being an obvious tourist. I’ve done it…several times. After five minutes of trying to orient myself in Prague, I discovered I was blocking the entrance to a café, much to the owner’s chagrin.

I now always look over my route for a minute before leaving. If I need to recheck my map, I go somewhere out of the way, discreetly take a look, and continue on. Walking as though you belong there is the key – even when they’re not in a hurry, locals move purposefully.

Everything changes when you have confidence in your stride. You no longer feel on display, and others approach you differently.

Learn the Little Courtesies

Your interactions are just as meaningful as your appearance if you want to fit in. It goes a long way to greet someone politely in their native tongue. Saying “bonjour” before making any requests made folks much friendlier, I discovered while I was in France. A bow or nod is considered respectful in Japan.

And a cordial “How are ye?” literally and figuratively opens doors in Ireland. Even if your accent makes you stand out, people will appreciate your attempt to be friendly as a visitor. When traveling, those small gestures of courtesy are universal.

• Here’s our quick and dirty Survival Spanish guide for traveling in Latin America!

Invest in Quality Pieces of Clothing

The more I travel, the more I realize that inexpensive, fast-fashion clothing is insufficient. Quality is essential when traveling, not only for comfort but also to ensure you don’t stand out too much – either as a laughingstock or a target!

That flat cap I mentioned before? It has become one of my favorite travel essentials, no matter where I go. Not only does it look fantastic, but each time I wear it, it brings back memories of little pubs along the Wild Atlantic Way or a soggy morning in Galway.

I’ve been incorporating that idea into every purchase I make. I search for long-lasting items, whether it’s a leather satchel from a nearby artisan or a wool sweater from a family-run business. Dressing for confidence and comfort makes all the difference.

Featured image by Vitaly Mazur on Unsplash