My Simple, Practical Tips on How Not to Look Like a Tourist Abroad

First, why is this important? As a solo female traveler, especially if you like going “off the grid” to explore on your own, you’re less conspicuous. Pickpockets are a factor in every large city, here and abroad. Also, there are cultural norms which, as a woman traveling in a different country, merit your attention. Here are a few of my personal rules for “blending in.”

Fanny packs shout, “I am a tourist and I have all my valuables in this thing!” I know, they’re comfortable but you have other options, equally practical. A cross-shoulder dark or neutral bag that you can keep a hand on is preferable. There are many types but I like the Baggallini Everywhere Bag with RFID but there are many other versions. And avoid backpacks for touring. Fine as a carry on. Leave it in the hotel or on the bus.

No ripped jeans. No athleisure-wear. Leave the Lululemon for your gym workouts. Europeans tend to dress more formally than Americans. A well-fitting pair of dark jeans and a blazer is preferable to track pants and a sweatshirt. In Islamic countries there are cultural norms women should be aware of. You don’t have to go full burka but many shrines and places of worship require shoulders and knees and sometimes heads to be covered. They are serious about this and will deny entry to anyone inappropriately dressed. Pack a scarf that you can use to cover head and shoulders when asked.

Forego the cargo pants. Unless you’re on safari and taking game drives or you’re a professional photographer and actually use all of those pockets.

Don’t wear wrist loads of clanking bracelets, big dangling earrings or blingy rings. It’s tacky and marks you as likely target.

No branded apparel. No t-shirts or sweatshirts with political slogans. The idea is to fly under the radar and look like a local.

Skip the baseball caps unless you’re under thirty and wear ponytails. A classic sunhat, visor or packable fedora is preferable.

No spike heels. Many streets in the UK, Europe and the Middle East are cobblestone. Pavement may be uneven. Heels are treacherous. If you want something other than a walking shoe (I hate clunky, orthopedic looking ones), look into stylish clogs for cold, wedge-sandals or “flatforms” for summer. Merrell and Fitflops are my go-to brands. Make sure you have something with closed toes for days when you’re exploring Pompeii, or climbing sand dunes in Merzouga.

No flip-flops unless you’re on the beach.

Buy an outfit in a destination city. Great way to blend in and doesn’t have to be expensive. Or, shop H&M or Zara online before you go. They’re reasonable and world-wide.

And finally…this is not about apparel but is as important to your presentation. Learn greetings appropriate to the destination country. Do women shake hands? Bow? Double cheek-kiss? Make eye-contact? Avoid contact? These things matter.