Travel Faux Pas – Have You Made Any of These?

As digital nomads, we usually travel more frequently, which ups our chances of making travel faux pas that may lead to awkward situations or worse, actual problems. Here are some common travel faux pas that you’ll want to avoid on your next trip!

1. Wearing Socks Around the Airplane (Especially in the Bathroom!)

Let’s start with one that may seem innocent: wearing only socks while moving around the cabin of an airplane. You’ve been sitting for hours, and slipping off your shoes feels like heaven, but walking to the bathroom in your socks is a major no-no. Airplane bathrooms are not known for cleanliness, and the floor can be wet from spills – or worse. Your cozy socks will absorb it all, making for a very unpleasant and unsanitary experience. Even if you aren’t visiting the bathroom, being barefoot or just in socks around other travelers is often considered impolite. Best to keep some light, slip-on shoes handy!

2. Forgetting Modest Clothing in Conservative Countries

You might be flying from straight from the clubs of Ibiza, but what awaits you at your destination could be vastly different. Forgetting to dress modestly when getting off the plane in a conservative country is a common and potentially serious faux pas. In regions like the Middle East, Southeast Asia, or parts of Africa, conservative attire is often required, especially for women. Arriving in shorts or a tank top could not only draw unwanted attention but also be seen as disrespectful. Always research the cultural norms of your destination beforehand and pack a modest outfit to change into before landing.

3. Not Checking In Online and Getting Bumped from an Overbooked Flight

Airlines are notorious for overbooking flights, and travelers who don’t check in online are often the first to be bumped. If you’re still waiting until you arrive at the airport to check in, you could end up missing your flight, especially if it’s full. Online check-in opens 24 hours before your flight, giving you the chance to secure your seat. Not checking in online might seem like a small oversight, but it can lead to delays, stress, or even missing your trip altogether. Trust us because we have already made this mistake, which resulted in an expensive taxi ride to our tour destination a full 24 hours late.

4. Leaving Your Phone in the Airplane’s Seat-Back Pocket

Long flights make the seat-back pocket a tempting spot for stashing your phone, e-reader, or boarding pass. But all too often, people forget these items when disembarking. The rush to deplane and the desire to stretch your legs after hours of confinement lead to countless items being left behind. Losing your phone on a trip is inconvenient and costly, potentially leaving you stranded without maps, translations, or even your hotel reservation details.

5. Going into the Wrong Kind of Massage Parlor

When looking for relaxation, be cautious of the type of massage parlor you enter. In some regions, certain parlors offer “special” services that may not align with your expectations. It can be awkward and embarrassing if you accidentally walk into the wrong type of establishment. Always research in advance or ask for recommendations from trusted locals or your hotel to avoid this uncomfortable situation.

6. Not Checking Visa Requirements and Being Far from an Embassy

Imagine arriving at a land border only to discover you need a visa, and the nearest embassy is hours away. This can be a costly and time-consuming mistake that disrupts your travel plans. Always check visa requirements in advance and ensure you have the necessary documentation to avoid being turned away at the border.

Traveling is full of adventure, but a little extra preparation can help you avoid these faux pas and ensure your trip goes smoothly! Have you made any of these travel faux pas? Any that you’ve made that you’d like to add?