Every Kind of Explorer
Given that traveling is so healing, it's no wonder you'll come across all kinds of people on your journeys around the globe. From the airport to your hostel, you've probably met plenty of interesting characters, from the social butterfly to the solo backpacker. You might even be wondering what label you fall under. Curious to know just how many travel personalities exist? Here are 20 different types of travelers you're bound to meet on your next vacation.
1. The Photographer
If you meet the photographer traveler during your trip, you're in luck: they'll guarantee you'll get the best-looking shots by knowing exactly which angle, lighting, and position to click pictures from. If you get to know them a little more, you might even get to see the artistic collection of photos they've taken in the past.
2. The Planner
If you're traveling with a planner, you already know that your itinerary is set and all you need to do is sit back, relax, and enjoy the trip ahead. The only caveat is that planners are usually fairly strict with the schedule they've drafted up, and any changes—big or small—might not be approved.
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3. The Adventurous
The opposite of the planner is the adventurous traveler: the one who's pretty much willing to try everything at least once. Rock climbing? Check. Hiking an unknown trail? Check. Trying out odd local delicacies? Check. Whatever you can think of, they've probably done it, or will want to.
4. The Spontaneous
The spontaneous traveler is a step up from the adventurous traveler: they love the unexpected and won't box themselves in by making a concrete plan. Every day is a new journey for them, and they'll do whatever their hearts guide them to.
5. The Budget Traveler
The budget traveler is the one who's always conscious about how much money they're spending and whether they're getting a good deal. They're unlikely to try everything, especially if it's costly, and even if they won't have a chance to do it again.
6. The Solo Backpacker
You'll definitely meet a solo backpacker or two whenever you travel. These travelers are typically young, in their early to mid-twenties, and are likely taking a gap year from school to explore the world and find their passion. Their playfulness is what makes them fun to befriend.
7. The Fashionista
The fashionista traveler is the one who brings—you guessed it—tons of stylish clothes and accessories. You'll never see them out and about wearing slouchy sweatshirts and joggers; they'll always be impeccably dressed, like they've just walked out of a fashion show.
8. The Luxury Seeker
You have your budget travelers, and then you have your luxury seekers. The latter group loves to live and travel lavishly, meaning they'll book the most prestigious hotels and resorts, and go on expensive tours. The sky is the limit for these folks.
9. The History Buff
You can probably find a history buff in every museum you visit. They'll most likely be examining ancient statues and texts, quietly admiring the artifacts, or maybe even educating curious visitors if they know enough about the details behind each piece. Befriending them is definitely a lot more fun than reading a history textbook.
10. The Foodie
If you meet a foodie, you can guarantee you're getting the best restaurant picks from them. They probably have a list of recommendations for every city and country they've visited, along with a blog that details their experience, meaning you'll also be privy to the best places to eat.
11. The Digital Nomad
Who says you can't have fun and make money? The digital nomads have life figured out: don't let work come in between your love of travel, just travel while you work! Even though the plan sounds great in theory, you'll often see these adventurers knackered out from all the exploring and working (at odd hours) they do.
12. The Soul Searchers
Technically, you can argue that the solo backpackers and adventurers and whatnot are all soul-searchers, but dedicated soul-searcher travelers are purely taking these trips to find their purpose in life. You'll most likely meet them while taking a stroll on a secluded path or staring off into the sunset.
13. The Social Butterfly
The social butterflies are the type of travelers who will befriend everyone. They love making small talk, and they're probably genuinely the nicest people you'll ever meet. You might even stay in touch with them and still meet up whenever you're visiting the same place at the same time.
14. The Party-Goer
If you meet a party-goer traveler, you're either at a club, bar, concert, or festival. These types of travelers love—you guessed it—all things partying, and they're often out dancing, exploring, and enjoying the nightlife no matter where they go.
15. The Chatty One
Similar to the social butterfly, if you meet a chatty traveler, chances are you'll never see the end of the conversation. Sometimes it's great to meet someone who enjoys small talk and befriending others, but sometimes, when you're already tired from all the exploring you've done, it can be a bit much.
16. The Overpacker
If you meet an overpacker, they might be regretting their choices, but you'll be in luck: they probably have everything you could possibly ever think of needing, including travel adapters, cables, and portable chargers. Then again, they won't have space to put any of their souvenirs when heading back home, so they may actually need you to take some stuff off their hands.
17. The Complainer
The complainer is the type of traveler who'll, well, complain about everything. From money to food and sightseeing attractions, there's nothing that doesn't earn a critique from them. Honestly, you wonder if they even enjoy their trip at all.
18. The Culture Enthusiast
Similar to the history buff, the culture enthusiast is probably one who knows at least a bit of the local tongue, meaning if you travel with them, you're saved from having to Google Translate everything. You'll also be able to learn a thing or two about the city or country from them, which might make you want to do a deeper dive.
19. The Underpacker
Opposite of the overpacker, the underpacker is the kind of traveler who has... well, pretty much nothing in their luggage. This might be a smart decision on their part, especially if they're a backpacker and know they'll need space for the souvenirs they'll buy, but sometimes it also means they'll be bugging you for toothpaste and shampoo.
20. The Summer-Abroad Student
The summer-abroad student will most often be in a group with other students who are temporarily studying away from their home country for the summer, and they're often young, adventurous, and ambitious. You'll typically find them in cafés, bars, and on the beach (which may make you question whether they're even here to learn).
