Bags packed. OOO on. Wheels up. And just like that, you become…someone else entirely?
According to our latest survey of 3,000 U.S. travelers, nearly half of Americans say they act differently, or even feel like a different person, when they travel.
Whether it’s ordering everything on the menu, chatting up strangers, or telling a tiny white lie about where you’re from, vacation mode brings out the bolder, freer versions of ourselves.
Travelers don’t just unpack bags; they unpack new personas
- 45% say they act differently when traveling
- 40% feel they become a completely different person entirely
- Of those with a travel alter ego, 60% say that’s the truest version of themselves
Here’s how travelers define their alter egos:
The explorer (19%)
The most popular persona among survey-takers. Always hunting for hidden gems, local spots, and unexpected adventures. If there’s a detour, they’ll take it.
The quiet observer (12%)
Happy to sit back and soak it all in. People-watching, peaceful strolling, and enjoying the vibe without needing to be in the spotlight.
The solo wanderer (8%)
Independent, confident, and free to do whatever they want whenever they want.
The luxury lover (8%)
Five-star everything, champagne on arrival, and rooftop pools are what they’re seeking. If there’s a velvet rope, they’re first in line.
The foodie (8%)
Traveling solely based on their taste buds. Markets, street food, and local specialties are the whole reason why they’re here.
What else changes when people travel?
Turns out, your alter ego is a lot more fun than your 9-to-5 self. Among those who agree they change when traveling:
- 52% spend more freely
- 48% try foods they wouldn’t normally
- 47% indulge more in food and drink
- 45% try activities they wouldn’t usually
- 44% feel more spontaneous
- 43% feel calmer or more reflective
- 42% become friendlier
- 40% report feeling more confident
And, about those little white lies…
49% of travelers admit to fibbing away while on vacation. The most common being:
- Things they’ve done in the past (33%)
- Their age (29%)
- Where they’re from (29%)
- Their job (29%)
- Their name (26%)
Gen Z and Millennials lead with 60% of them admitting to telling a white lie while on vacation, especially about their name or hometown.
But just like vacation, your travel alter ego doesn’t last forever
- 63% with an alter ego say it fades within a day of returning
- 22% say it lasts up to a week
- Just 3% say it lasts longer than a month
And the reasons why it can’t stick around?:
- Work responsibilities – 34%
- Routine/structure – 34%
- Financial constraints – 27%
- Family dynamics – 24%
- Social expectations – 21%
For some, travel does inspire real-life change, even if their vacation-mode persona disappears. Among those with a travel alter ego:
- 25% say it made them more confident or outgoing
- 24% say it helped them re-evaluate their priorities
- 21% say it helped them embrace spontaneity
- 21% made new lifelong friends
- 17% started a new hobby or passion
Who will you be on your next trip?
So, what’s your travel alter ego? Whether you’re an explorer, a foodie, or someone who likes to pretend they’re 29 forever, we’ve got you covered.
With Faye Travel Insurance by your side, you can be whoever you want to be, wherever you want to go, all with peace of mind.
