Are you a PRO-level traveler? 24 Traits of a “Super Awesome Traveler”

▲Travel (Photo / Darzhi / Illustration)

By Rita

Strive for excellence—not just in learning, but also in travel.

Recently, many stories about Chinese travelers have emerged internationally, opening our eyes and inspiring us to become better tourists. The U.S. Huffington Post compiled24 traits of a “super awesome” traveler—how many do you have?

1. Good: Go with the flow
Flight delays, noisy neighbors—stay calm when things beyond your control happen. Letting go is another way to be kind to yourself and accept that some things are just part of the journey.
Great: Positive force of nature
Embrace all unexpected situations. Your dish didn’t come? No worries—the positive force has already spotted another dish they’d rather try.

2. Good: Learned a few phrases in the local language
Throwing out a few words in the local tongue is sure to impress the locals.
Great: Use body language, gestures, and smile
Some people just can’t memorize greetings—but body language works wonders, and a smile can often defuse any situation.

3. Good: Wear a watch
A time-telling device is essential while traveling, but don’t rely too much on rechargeable gadgets like your phone. A watch is quite handy—you can just keep it in your bag when not using it.
Great: Mentally prepare for things not always being on time

4. Good: Use travel apps wisely
Great: Don’t rely entirely on apps
In case your phone or tablet dies, you won’t be left completely helpless. Remember, they’re useful—but don’t over-rely on them.

5. Good: Bring some basic medical supplies
Excellent: Always carry a first-aid kit
The first-aid kit doesn’t have to be large—just compact enough to keep with you in case of emergencies.

6. Good: Don’t be afraid to ask for directions
Asking for directions might help you make new friends or lead to unexpected discoveries.
Excellent: Don’t be afraid of getting lost
Getting lost is part of the journey and can be a fun challenge.

7. Good: Don’t get upset over small things
Issues like bad hotel smells, no water, or no Wi-Fi won’t affect you.
Excellent: Don’t get upset over big things either
Whether it’s losing your passport, wallet, or missing a flight connection, no matter how bad it gets, there’s always a way to handle it calmly.

8. Good: Bring your own water bottle
Save energy and reduce carbon emissions
Excellent: Bring a water bottle with a “filtering” function

9. Good: Plan as much as possible, but know that perfect planning is impossible
Excellent: Be ready to change your plans
When traveling, people often cling to their itinerary, but sometimes worthwhile experiences require you to train yourself to deviate from the plan—it’s truly worth it.

10. Good: Give back
When you visit a community, whether or not you volunteer, don’t just take—give back too, because you appreciate all that you have.
Excellent: Continue to give back after returning home
You haven’t forgotten the kindness you received abroad. Whether by sharing these experiences or continuing to participate in organizing activities, you’ve never stopped giving back.

11. Good: Travel light
Pack versatile clothing and comfortable shoes. Basically, you only bring the luggage that “lets you survive” on your trip.
Excellent: Bring only carry-on luggage
Try to avoid checking in luggage whenever possible, because it’s not worth it.

12. Good: Respect local customs
Treat adapting to local ways as part of the travel experience.
Excellent: Try to understand the historical and cultural background behind the customs
Actively learn why locals do things a certain way, and care about how the people you interact with feel.

★The image is a copyrighted photo provided exclusively to ETtoday Eastday News Cloud by Dashizhixiang. No website, newspaper, or TV station may reproduce any part or all of it without permission from Dashizhixiang.