What Type of Traveller Are You? Exploring the Many Ways We Explore the World

Travel is one of those things that means something different to everyone. For some, it’s about ticking off bucket-list landmarks, while for others, it’s about exploring a new city and losing oneself within it, or finding the perfect beach to chill out on.

How we travel tells a great deal about who we are – our interests, priorities, and even our personalities. And while there's neither right nor wrong way to see the world, knowing your travel style can make your vacations more enjoyable, less stressful, and perhaps even a little more worthwhile.

Think about it: have you ever wondered why your idea of a perfect vacation is getting up and personal with a rainforest trek, whereas your friend is dreaming of lounging by a pool with a cocktail? Or why some people are happy to sleep in a hostel dorm, whereas others wouldn’t consider anything less than a five-star resort? These differences aren’t random – they’re tied to the kind of traveller you are.

Personally, travel has always been about discovery – both of the world and of myself. Growing up, I was inspired by fictional books with foreign settings. Later, a globe-trotting senior colleague showed me that travel is a way of life. Over the years, my travel style has evolved from a strict budget traveller to someone who occasionally splurges on experiences, but one thing remains the same: I love the freedom of travelling.

Read on to take a closer look at the many different types of travellers out there. Along the way, you might learn something new about how you like to explore the world – or even pick up a few ideas for your next adventure.

The Difference Between a Tourist and a Traveller

Before we explore the different types of travellers, let’s quickly tackle a question that’s sparked countless debates: what’s the difference between a tourist and a traveller?

According to the Oxford Learner’s Dictionary, a tourist is “a person who is travelling or visiting a place for pleasure.”

On the other hand, a traveller is defined as “a person who does not live in one place but travels around, especially as part of a group; a member of the travelling community.”

Of course, the tourist/traveller distinction isn’t always so clear-cut. You might be a tourist one day (posing for a selfie at the Colosseum) and a traveller the next (wandering through a quiet Roman neighbourhood, chatting with locals). And that’s perfectly fine.

What matters is that you’re exploring the world in a way that feels authentic to you – it is that you’re out there, experiencing something new.

In fact, it’s something I have to remind myself often, especially after writing about why I dislike group tour packages.

Types of Travellers Based on Budget

Money might not buy happiness, but it can definitely influence your travel style. Whether you're travelling on the cheap or splurging at luxury five-star hotels, your budget plays a big role in shaping your travel style. Here are the most common types of travellers based on how much they’re willing to spend:

Budget Travellers

Budget travellers are the masters of stretching a dollar. They’re the ones who know how to travel cheap – how to find the cheapest flights, the most affordable accommodations, and the most free activities in any place. For budget travellers, travel isn’t about luxury – it’s about experiences. They’d rather spend their money on an experience that will last a lifetime than on a fancy hotel room.

I’ve always been a budget traveller. In my early days of travel, I was all about “free” accommodations often staying at “free” or cheap accommodations – redeeming points from subscribed memberships, booking rooms during promotions, or even crashing at a friend’s place, I’d try to avoid anything that required a fee, whether it was an attraction ticket or a guided tour. It was all about seeing as much as possible while spending as little as possible.

But over time, I’ve swayed to another type of traveller (more on that later). 

Backpackers

Backpackers are a special breed of budget travellers, but with one major difference: they travel light. Like, really light. Everything they need fits into a single backpack, so they can get around without having to worry about luggage.

Backpackers are often associated with long-term travel, like gap years or round-the-world trips. But I didn’t rough it in hostels or embark on a months-long journey – I was just travelling for a couple of weeks. I admire those who can rough it in a hostel dorm or spend months on the road with just a backpack.

Luxury Travellers

At the other end of the spectrum are luxury travellers, who believe that travel should be as comfortable – and as indulgent – as possible. Price is of no concern to them. They’ll stay in the most luxurious hotels, dine at the finest restaurants, and travel first class whenever possible.

I’ll admit, I’ve never been a luxury traveller. I can’t afford it, and honestly, I’m not sure I’d enjoy it. I’d rather spend my money on experiences than on a fancy hotel room. But I can see the appeal – who wouldn’t want to wake up to a view of Petronas Twin Towers, or enjoy a private pool in Bali?

Mid-Budget Travellers

Most of us fall somewhere in the middle. We’re not exactly budget travellers, but we’re not splurging on luxury either. Mid-budget travellers are all about balance. They might stay in a mid-range hotel, fly economy, and splurge on a few special experiences (like a fancy dinner or a guided tour).

This is where I find myself these days. I still love a good deal, but I’ve learned that it’s okay to spend a little more on comfort or unique experiences. For example, I’ll happily stay in a mid-tier hotel if it means I’m close to the action, and I’ll occasionally splurge on a cultural show or a guided tour. It’s all about finding the right balance.

Activity-Based Traveller Types

How you use your time on a trip says a lot about your travel style. Some travel to relax, others live for the thrill. Here are some of the most common activity-based traveller types:

Active Travellers

Active travellers are the ones who can’t sit still. They’re always on the move, be it hiking through a national park, biking in a city, or kayaking down a river. For active travellers, travel is a chance to challenge themselves and try new things.

I’m not the most active traveller, but I do enjoy a good adventure now and then. My most adventurous moments include zip-lining and quad bike riding – both of which were thrilling but also a little nerve-wracking. I’m not sure I’d do them again, but I’m glad I tried them at least once.

Foodies

Foodies are travellers who plan their trips around their taste buds. For them, travel is all about taste-testing new foods, exploring local markets, and dining at the best restaurants. Foodies don’t just want to eat – they want to experience the culture and history behind the food.

I’ll admit, I’m not much of a foodie. I enjoy trying local dishes, but I don’t plan my trips around food. For me, travel is more about the sights and experiences than the meals.

Experience Seekers

Experience seekers are all about immersing themselves in the destination. They want to do things that are unique to the place they’re visiting, whether it’s riding a gondola in Venice, visiting the Louvre in Paris, or hiking to Machu Picchu in Peru.

Experience seekers aren’t necessarily looking for adventure or luxury – they just want to experience the best that a destination has to offer. They’re the ones who’ll spend hours researching the top attractions, reading travel blogs, and talking to locals to find out what they shouldn’t miss.

Shoppers

Shoppers are travellers who love to shop. For them, travel is a chance to find unique souvenirs, explore local markets, and indulge in a little retail therapy. Shoppers might plan their trips around destinations known for their shopping, like Paris (for fashion), Dubai (for luxury malls), or Tokyo (for quirky souvenirs).

I’m definitely not a shopper. While some people love spending hours browsing through markets or hunting for the perfect souvenir, I’d rather spend my time exploring nature, attending cultural shows, or simply relaxing. For me, travel is about experiences, not things. But if shopping is your thing, more power to you – it’s just not my cup of tea.

Cultural Travellers

Cultural travellers learn. They’re the ones who spend their trips visiting museums, historical sites, and cultural landmarks. For cultural travellers, travelling is a way of learning about the history, art, and traditions of a destination.

Cultural travellers might spend days exploring the ruins of ancient civilisations, observing traditional festivals, or touring historic landmarks. They’re the ones who’ll read every plaque in a museum, take notes during a guided tour, and study the history of a place before visiting.

Pilgrims

Pilgrims are travellers who travel for religious reasons. They visit sacred sites, participate in religious ceremonies, or follow pilgrimage routes like Mecca in Saudi Arabia. For pilgrims, travel is a deeply personal and spiritual experience.

Pilgrims travel to destinations that are significant to their faith, like Mecca for Muslims, Varanasi for Hindus, or Jerusalem for Christians, Jews, and Muslims. But pilgrimage isn’t just about religion – it’s also about self-discovery, reflection, and connection.

Photographers/Content Creators

Photographers and content creators are travellers who see the world through a lens. For them, travelling means capturing stunning photos, whether it’s a sunrise over Angkor Wat, a bustling street market in Marrakech, or a serene landscape in Iceland.

Photographers and content creators usually plan their trips around photogenic locations, including iconic landmarks, natural wonders, or colourful festivals. They’re the ones who’ll wake up before dawn to catch the perfect light, spend hours setting up the perfect shot, and post-process their photos or videos long after the trip is over.

Travellers Grouped by Destination Preferences

Where you travel says a lot about your travel style. Some people love the hustle and bustle of cities, while others prefer the peace and quiet of nature. Here are some of the most common destination-based traveller types:

Domestic Travellers

Domestic travellers are people who prefer to explore their own country. Instead of jetting off to a far-flung destination, they’ll take road trips, visit national parks, or explore nearby cities. Domestic travellers are all about discovering the beauty and diversity of their own backyard.

When I was younger, most of my travels were domestic. It was easier, cheaper, and often more accessible. Thinking back, there’s something special about exploring your own backyard – it’s a reminder that you don’t have to go far to find adventure.

International Travellers

International travellers are the opposite of domestic travellers – they’re all about exploring the world. For them, travel is a chance to experience new cultures, try new foods, and see new places. International travellers might visit multiple countries in a single trip, or spend months backpacking through a region.

International travel became more accessible for me once I started working and earning my own money. It was a chance to break out of my comfort zone and see the world beyond my own country. But even now, I try to balance international trips with domestic ones. There’s so much to discover close to home, too.

City Explorers

City explorers are the opposite of nature goers – they’re all about the hustle and bustle of urban life. For them, travel is a chance to explore vibrant cities, discover hidden gems, and immerse themselves in the local culture.

I used to follow the crowd and focused on exploring cities. It was fun, but over time, I’ve come to appreciate the peace and quiet of nature. Read next…

Nature Goers

Nature goers are travellers who prefer to spend their time in the great outdoors. They’re the ones who’ll hike through national parks, camp in the wilderness, or spend days lounging on a secluded beach. For nature goers, travel is a chance to reconnect with nature and escape the stresses of everyday life.

As I’ve learned more about sustainability, I’ve found myself drawn to nature more and more. It’s not just about being eco-friendly – it’s also about finding peace and quiet in a world that’s always on the go. Plus, nature travel is often easier on the wallet, which is always a bonus.

Types of Travellers Based on Their Reason for Travel

Why you travel says a lot about your travel style. Some people travel for work, others for pleasure, and others for something in between. Here are some of the most common reasons people travel:

Work Exchangers

Work exchange travellers are people who travel while working. They might work as au pairs, teach English abroad, or volunteer on a farm in exchange for room and board. For work exchange travellers, travel is a chance to immerse themselves in a new culture, learn new skills, and make a difference.

In a way, I’m a sort of work exchange traveller myself. As a seafarer, my job takes me to different parts of the world. It’s not your typical 9-to-6, but it’s given me the chance to see places I might not have visited otherwise.

Business Travellers

Business travellers are people who travel for work. They might attend conferences, meet with clients, or visit company offices in different cities. For business travellers, travel is a necessary part of their job, but it can also be a chance to explore new places and experience new cultures.

I used to think getting paid to travel sounded like a dream. But the reality is often less glamorous. Sure, you might get to visit new places, but you’re usually tied to a strict schedule and don’t have much time to explore. Still, I can see the appeal of combining work and travel, even if it’s not as carefree as it sounds.

Volunteer Travellers

Volunteer travellers are people who travel to make a difference. They might work on a community project, teach in a school, or help with wildlife conservation. For volunteer travellers, travel is a chance to give back and make a positive impact on the world.

I’ve never had the chance to try volunteer travel, but I admire those who do. It’s a way to give back while experiencing a new culture, and I can imagine it’s incredibly rewarding.

Tourists

Tourists are people who travel for pleasure. They might visit famous landmarks, relax on a beach, or explore a new city. For tourists, travel is a chance to escape the stresses of everyday life and experience something new.

I used to think of myself as a tourist – and honestly, I probably still am. There’s nothing wrong with being a tourist. It’s about exploring new places, trying new things, and creating memories. Whether you’re snapping photos at Tokyo Tower or lounging on a beach in Bali, being a tourist is all about enjoying the journey.

Travellers Based on Who They Travel With

Who you travel with can have a big impact on your travel style. Some people prefer to travel alone, while others love to travel with friends, family, or a partner. Here are some of the most common types of travellers based on who they travel with:

Solo Travellers

Solo travellers are people who prefer to travel alone. For them, travel is a chance to explore the world on their own terms, without having to worry about anyone else’s preferences or schedules. Solo travellers are often independent, adventurous, and self-reliant.

I’ve never had the guts to travel alone, but I admire those who do. There’s something incredibly freeing about being able to go wherever you want, whenever you want. Maybe one day I’ll give it a try.

Group Travellers

Group travellers are people who prefer to travel with others. They might travel with friends, family, or as part of an organised tour. For group travellers, travel is a chance to share experiences, create memories, and bond with others.

Group travel can be a lot of fun, but it can also be challenging. It’s important to find a group that shares your travel style and interests, and to be flexible and open-minded when travelling with others.

Read: Why Do Women Want to Travel So Much?

Family Travellers

Family travellers are people who travel with their families. They might travel with young children, teenagers, or extended family members. For family travellers, travel is a chance to spend quality time together, create lasting memories, and introduce their children to new cultures and experiences.

Family travel is something I associate with my childhood. We didn’t travel often, but when we did, it was always an adventure. These days, I don’t travel with family much, but I have fond memories of those trips.

Couples

Couples are people who travel with their partners. For them, travel is a chance to spend quality time together, explore new places, and create lasting memories. Couples might travel for romantic getaways, honeymoons, or just to spend time together.

I’ve never had a partner to try couple travel, but I can see the appeal. There’s something special about sharing new experiences with someone you care about.

Travellers Based on Time Spent Travelling

How long you travel can also influence your travel style. Some people prefer short trips, while others love to travel for months or even years at a time. Here are some of the most common types of travellers based on how long they travel:

Slow Travellers

Slow travellers are people who take their time when they travel. They might spend weeks or even months in a single destination, immersing themselves in the local culture and exploring every nook and cranny. For slow travellers, travel is a chance to truly experience a place, rather than just ticking off a list of attractions.

Slow travel can be incredibly rewarding. It’s a chance to connect with locals, learn about different cultures, and really get to know a destination. Plus, it’s a great way to reduce your carbon footprint and support local businesses.

Holidaymakers

Holidaymakers are people who travel for short breaks or holidays. They might take a weekend getaway, a week-long vacation, or a two-week trip. For holidaymakers, travel is a chance to relax, recharge, and escape the stresses of everyday life.

All my peers are holidaymakers. There’s something about making our lives about weekends and holidays that makes me a little sad. I’d love to travel more, but for now, I’m making the most of the time I have.

Digital Nomads

Digital nomads are travellers who work remotely while on the road. They might spend a few months in one destination before moving on to the next, or they might hop from city to city every few weeks. For digital nomads, travel is a way of life – a chance to combine work and adventure in a way that suits their lifestyle.

I can only imagine what a digital nomad’s life is like. I don’t know anyone personally who lives that way, but it sounds like an incredible way to combine work and travel. Maybe one day I’ll give it a try.

Read: 9 Practical Travel Jobs for Asian Adventurers to Explore

Why Your Traveller Type Matters

Understanding your travel style isn’t just a fun exercise – it can actually make your trips more enjoyable and less stressful. Here’s why your traveller type matters:

Planning Better Trips

When you know your travel style, you can plan trips that align with your preferences and interests. If you’re a budget traveller, you’ll know how to find the best deals and save money. If you’re a luxury traveller, you’ll know how to splurge on the experiences that matter most to you. And if you’re an adventure traveller, you’ll know how to seek out the most thrilling activities in any destination.

Avoiding Unnecessary Stress

Travelling in a way that doesn’t suit your style can lead to frustration and stress. For example, if you’re a slow traveller who prefers to take your time and immerse yourself in a destination, you might feel rushed and overwhelmed on a fast-paced group tour. On the other hand, if you’re a city explorer who loves the hustle and bustle of urban life, you might feel bored and restless in a remote, nature-focused destination.

Finding Like-Minded Travellers

Knowing your travel style can also help you connect with like-minded travellers. If you’re a solo traveller who loves adventure, you might join a group of fellow thrill-seekers for a hiking trip. If you’re a foodie, you might connect with other culinary enthusiasts on a food tour. And if you’re a digital nomad, you might find a community of remote workers in a coworking space.

Tips for Travelling with Different Types of Travellers

You might be wondering: What happens when two very different travel styles collide? Whether you’re planning a trip with a friend, partner, or family member, it’s not uncommon to find yourself travelling with someone whose idea of a perfect vacation is completely different from yours.

But don’t worry – travelling with someone who has a different style doesn’t have to be a source of stress. In fact, it can be an opportunity to try new things and see the world from a fresh perspective.

The key is compromise. Here are a few quick tips to help you navigate common travel style clashes:

• Budget vs. Luxury Travellers: Mix budget-friendly accommodations with a few splurge-worthy experiences.

• Adventure vs. Relaxation: Alternate between adrenaline-pumping activities and chill days by the pool.

• Foodies vs. Non-Foodies: Combine fancy restaurants with casual street food adventures.

At the end of the day, there’s no right or wrong way to travel. Whether you’re a budget backpacker, a luxury seeker, or something in between, the most important thing is to travel in a way that feels authentic to you.

So, what type of traveller are you?