It’s often easy to spot a Brit abroad. Whether they’re lounging on a beach in Spain or exploring the streets of New York, certain habits and quirks will always give them away. These are most likely to involve tea drinking or complaining about the heat. Here's a list of 20 tell-tale signs that there’s a Brit nearby.
Wearing Socks with Sandals
Nothing screams ‘British tourist’ like socks with sandals. They seem to embrace the look despite it being offbeat. It doesn’t matter if there’s warm weather, Brits often can't part with their socks. It’s a comfort thing.
Obsessing Over Tea
A good cup of tea is non-negotiable for British tourists. Even in a heatwave, Brits will hunt down the perfect brew, often bringing their teabags just in case. They’ll be the first ones to speak up if the tea isn’t PG Tips or Tetley.
Complaining About the Heat
Brits are known for moaning about the weather. Back in England, it’s either too wet, too cold, or too hot. On holiday, if it’s too hot, you’ll hear them longing for the cool, damp air of home. Once they’re home, it’ll be too damp. There’s no satisfying them.
Queueing Religiously
Brits love a good queue, and other races and cultures find it amusing. Whether it's for a museum, a bus, or even an ice cream stand, they’ll form an orderly line, no matter what. While everyone else is pushing to the front, the Brits will simply wait their turn.
Seeking Out British Pubs
No matter where they are, Brits will find a local British pub. There’s nothing like a taste of home, even if you’re thousands of miles away. You’re likely to see them sitting in a beer garden with a pint of ale and wearing football shirts.
Overpacking
Brits are notorious for overpacking. They’ll pack multiple outfits for every day, just in case the weather changes or there’s a fancy dinner. Have a look through a Brits’ suitcase, and you’ll spot a raincoat, sandals, and an umbrella.
Apologizing Excessively
Saying ‘sorry’ for everything, even when it’s not their fault, is a classic British trait. On holiday, this habit often confuses the locals. If someone accidentally walks into a Brit, the Brit will be first to apologize.
Talking About the Weather
Obsessing over the weather is a national pastime in Britain. On holiday, Brits will compare local weather conditions to the forecast back home. A week after they’re home, they’ll reminisce about the beautiful weather they had last week in Spain.
Carrying an Umbrella
Even in destinations with minimal to no rainfall, Brits will carry an umbrella. You never know when it might rain, right? Whether they’re in Thailand or Bali, they’ll have an umbrella at the ready, but they’ll never use it to shield themselves from the sun. They even have umbrella etiquette.
Wearing Union Jack Clothing
From hats to t-shirts, Brits love sporting the Union Jack. It’s a way to show patriotism, even when they’re far from home. You might spot them at the airport with Union Jack luggage or on the beach with a Union Jack t-shirt. It’s never far away.
Using British Slang
Words like ‘knackered,’ ‘cheers,’ and ‘loo’ are dead giveaways. Locals often find British slang endearing and amusing, though they can’t always make sense of it. They’ll call everyone ‘mate’ too, even if they’re ordering a drink at the bar.
Bringing Their Own Marmite
Marmite is a British staple, and many Brits won’t travel without it. They spread it on toast and crumpets and sometimes sneak it into local cuisine. They say Marmite is a love or hate thing, but the Brits are suckers for it.
Being Polite to a Fault
Politeness is ingrained in British culture. On holiday, Brits will often be overly courteous, even in situations that don’t warrant it. If a Brit has a horrible meal overseas, they’ll never tell the server. They’ll simply smile, tell them it was great, and tip them.
Ordering Fish and Chips
When abroad, Brits often seek out fish and chips, even if it's not on the menu. It's their comfort food and a taste of home. They’ll always be quick to tell you about their local chip shop at home and how they order out every Friday. Ask them about chip butties.
Getting Sunburned
Despite slathering on sunscreen, many Brits end up with a sunburn. Their fair skin isn’t used to the intense sun, making them easy to spot. If you see someone wandering around the pool with bright pink stripes across their body, it’s likely to be a Brit.
Enjoying a Full English Breakfast
A full English breakfast is a must. Even if it means paying extra or searching high and low, Brits will get their bacon, eggs, and beans. They may refer to it as a ‘fry up,’ but it means the same thing.
Taking Afternoon Tea
Afternoon tea is a cherished ritual. Brits will find a way to enjoy teatime, complete with scones and clotted cream, wherever they are. They’re suckers for squared bread cut into triangles, so they won’t be difficult to spot in the dining area.
Watching British TV Shows
Thanks to streaming services, Brits can keep up with their favorite shows while abroad. You’ll often find them binge-watching in their hotel room. If they tell you they’ve caught up on Eastenders and Coronation Street, they’re likely to be content for the evening. They’re two of the biggest soap operas on British TV that they can’t be without.
Speaking Slowly and Loudly
In an attempt to be understood, Brits often speak slowly and loudly when communicating with non-English speakers, which can be quite amusing. Their words make no more sense slowly than the alternative, but they seem to think they’re making themselves crystal clear.
Being Loyal to British Brands
From Marks & Spencer to Cadbury, Brits love their home brands. They’ll often hunt down British products in foreign supermarkets. You might see a Brit parading up and down the aisles in search of their favorite chocolate; foreign brands just won’t cut it.
30 Traditional Sayings That Are Now Considered Offensive by Woke Culture
30 Traditional Sayings That Are Now Considered Offensive by Woke Culture
21 Habits Often Associated With Having a Lower Social Status
21 Habits Often Associated With Having a Lower Social Status
25 Social Issues Gen Z are Determined to Cancel
