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Do the Touristy Stuff (It’s Popular for a Reason)

Look, I get it. We all love the idea of being the cool traveler who knows the “secret” spots – the off-the-beaten-path cafes, the hidden alleyways, the “locals-only” experiences that make you feel like you’ve cracked the code. But here’s the thing: the “touristy” spots are popular for a reason. Iconic landmarks, famous monuments, and crowded plazas exist because they’re stunning, historic, or downright mind-blowing.

You know that feeling when you see the Eiffel Tower in person for the first time? Or the rush of crossing Times Square, eyes wide, taking in the chaos? There’s something magical about experiencing these global symbols firsthand. Sure, maybe it’s packed with selfie sticks and tour buses, but you get to be there. And let’s be real: you can never really say you’ve “seen” a place unless you’ve at least done the classics. So, don’t shy away from the touristy stuff – sometimes it’s touristy for a reason!

Pack Whatever You Want (Seriously, Nobody Cares)

Travel influencers and minimalist will tell you to pack light, roll your clothes, and somehow fit your entire wardrobe into a carry-on bag. But here’s the unpopular travel opinion: pack whatever you want. Whatever. You don’t need to fit into some mold of a “perfect” traveler. There’s no prize for wearing the same pair of underwear for a month. If you need extra shoes, toss them in. Want to bring your entire skincare routine? Go for it.

You’re traveling, not competing in the how little can you carry? Olympics. If bringing your favorite hoodie or extra camera gear makes you feel at home, do it. Traveling is hard enough without worrying about packing light for the sake of being “cool” or “minimal.” Pack to make your trip easier, not harder.

You Don’t Always Need A Plan – Spontaneous Adventures Are Sometimes The Best Adventures

Everyone loves a good itinerary, right? Lists, schedules, Google Docs… It all feels so organized and under control. But let’s be real – some of the best travel memories happen when you throw out the plan and go with the flow. There’s no better feeling than waking up in a new city with no agenda, wandering through side streets, and randomly stumbling upon a pop-up art show or an impromptu street performance.

Not everything has to be meticulously mapped out. Sure, some structure is important (we’re not saying ditch all responsibility), but spontaneity can lead to some of the most unexpected and unforgettable experiences. Some of my best adventures have happened because I let curiosity, not Google Maps, lead the way. So embrace the unknown and see where it takes you – because sometimes, the detours are the highlight of the trip.

There’s No Wrong Way to Travel – Be Kind, Have Fun, and Travel in Whatever Style Makes You Happiest

This is the ultimate unpopular opinion, but hear me out: There is no “wrong way” to travel. You want to sleep in fancy hotels, eat at Michelin-starred restaurants, and take a thousand photos for the ’Gram? Cool. You’d rather backpack through hostels, live off street food, and never make it to bed before sunrise? That’s awesome too. The beauty of travel is that it’s so personal.

The rules are simple: be kind, have fun, and travel in whatever way makes you happy. Whether you’re the meticulous planner or the spontaneous wanderer, whether you’re on a luxury tour or a budget backpacking adventure – your travel style is yours, and that’s something to be proud of. So don’t let anyone shame you for the way you explore the world. Own it, and go have the time of your life.

Travel is all about making memories, discovering new places, and finding what works for you. So forget about the pressure to “do it right” and embrace what makes your journey uniquely yours. Whether it’s ticking off the tourist bucket list, packing a little extra, wandering without a plan, or traveling in your own style – these unpopular opinions might just lead to the most exciting adventures yet. After all, the best part of traveling is that there are no rules.

One quick note before you go!

The links provided in this blog post are affiliate links. If you end up purchasing some of the gear listed, we get a very small portion of the sales, with no extra cost to you. Thank you as always for supporting us and our wild life!