Are you a tourist or a traveler? 10 differences between the 2 

There’s a common theme amongst those who enjoy worldly journeys: A love of escape. To run from the complications of everyday life and pursue the fantasy of someone else’s. But where does the line begin to blur between travel and tourism? How do you know what category you fall under?

After visiting 32 countries and six continents and experiencing both tourism and traveling, I like to consider myself qualified to determine some differences.

1. Expectations: Tourists expect perfection. Famous attractions, picture-perfect settings, all very instagrammable. They want to see only the most famous and the best of the best. A traveler hopes for authenticity. To observe and perhaps even contribute to the everyday life of locals, even if it means missing key moments or spots.
2. Accommodation: Tourists prefer comforts. Five-star hotels, resorts and even high end Airbnbs. They want convenience. Travelers are more willing to accept discomfort for unique experiences; their goal is simply to have a place to rest after a long day of exploring, even if that means carrying a tent in their packs.
3. Costs: Tourists will often spend more on packaged services and convenience. Travelers usually look for budget options and local prices, hoping to get the inside scoop.
4. Respect: It’s a common stereotype that tourists are rude and disruptive. Unfortunately, this is true in many cases; however, some tourists may not fully understand local customs. They don’t intend to be rude. They’re naive and see their brief visit as a sort of fantasy land, not someone else’s home. While travelers are not always the most respectful, many try to learn and respect local traditions and culture, especially during long stays.
5. Planning: A tourist’s plan often contains detailed itineraries and schedules. They intend to stay on track and minimize spontaneity. Travelers keep flexible plans and adapt along the way, as many times they don’t always have an answer as to where their next meal or bed will be.
6. Food: It’s common to eat at popular or familiar restaurants when on vacation. There are worldwide famous restaurants that are popular for a reason. But when it comes to traveling, local cuisines and street food are often preferred for both expense reasons and unique quality.
7. Time: Tourists usually take short visits with tight schedules. A vacation is often one to two weeks once or twice a year. Meanwhile, a traveler spends more time exploring; they journey for weeks and even months each year, often visiting small towns and the countryside.
8. Crowd: Tourists visit crowded tourist attractions; they form bustling crowds and create “hot spots” where tourists from all over flood in to join in on the action. Travelers often try to avoid crowds and explore quieter areas, many spending a majority of their time in the countryside or less populated areas of their visiting countries.
9. Social Media: Tourists often focus on taking photos for social media. Selfie sticks, family photos and future Christmas cards are common sights. Travelers focus more on the experience than posting online, enjoying the present.
10. Mindset: Tourists often think of their travels as a vacation, an opportunity to escape and relax, whereas travelers see it as a journey, to explore and focus on their personal growth.

Neither label confines an individual. A tourist can become a traveler and vice versa. But whichever way you choose to explore, the only thing that really matters is your enjoyment.