10 Rude Habits Montanans Don’t Know They Have When Traveling Abroad

Unpopular opinion alert: Montanans—and Americans as a whole—have some habits that totally fly under the radar in the United States while coming off as super rude elsewhere in the world.

We’re known for being loud, friendly, and always up for a chat. But sometimes, that can backfire.

If you want to avoid awkward stares or unintentional offenses when traveling abroad, consider it time to drop these habits.

Saying “Sorry” for Everything

Americans apologize for the weirdest things.

We say “sorry” when someone bumps into us, when we ask a question, or even when our bodies are taking up space—something that’s totally out of our control.

While it’s meant to be polite, in places like Germany, over-apologizing makes you sound like you have no confidence.

Also, when you say sorry all the time, it kind of loses its meaning.

Instead of automatically blurting it out, try switching it up with “excuse me” or just…not apologizing when you didn’t do anything wrong.

Oversharing With Strangers

Ever spill your entire life story to someone you just met?

Yeah, that’s a very American thing.

We’re super open about our personal lives, whether it’s talking about money, health issues, or family drama with someone we barely know.

In a lot of other cultures, people ease into personal topics way more slowly.

Jumping into deep conversations too quickly can make people uncomfortable. So, start with small talk before unloading your deepest secrets onto non-Americans.

Talking Way Too Loud in Public

Americans have a volume problem.

Whether it’s chatting on the phone in a coffee shop, yelling across the grocery store, or having full-on speakerphone conversations in public, we tend to forget that not everyone wants to hear our business.

In places like Japan, people keep their voices low in public spaces out of respect.

Even in the U.S., some Americans complain about being loud in public. Nobody wants to hear a stranger’s dramatic breakup while waiting in line for coffee.

Maybe just take it down a notch—your friends can still hear you, we promise.

Not Respecting Personal Space

Americans love getting up close and personal.

Whether it’s standing too close in line, touching people while talking, or just assuming everyone is cool with a hug, Americans can be a little too comfortable in other people’s bubbles.

In places like Scandinavia, people really value personal space—stand too close, and you might get some serious side-eye.

A good rule of thumb? If you don’t know someone well, keep a little distance. No one likes a close talker.

Constantly Interrupting

Americans do this a lot—especially when we’re excited. We love to jump into conversations mid-sentence, finishing people’s thoughts or just steamrolling ahead with their own opinions.

In places like Japan or Finland, interrupting is a huge no-go and is considered straight-up rude.

Even in the workplace, cutting people off can make it seem like you don’t actually care what they’re saying.

Try letting people finish their sentences—it’s surprisingly effective in making conversations feel more respectful.

Expecting Free Refills Everywhere

Americans are spoiled when it comes to drinks. Free refills are the norm here, but if you try asking for one in many other countries, you’re gonna get some confused looks.

Take France, for example. Every drink costs money—so if you guzzle your Coke in five minutes, you’ll have to buy another one.

In fact, in 2017, it became illegal for French businesses to offer unlimited free refills for sugary drinks.

It’s a good reminder not to assume that everywhere works like the U.S.

Plus, appreciating the little perks we do have (like free refills at home) makes them even better when we get to take advantage of them.

Tipping the Wrong Amount

Tipping in the U.S. is straight-up confusing. We tip for everything—restaurants, coffee shops, hotel cleaning, even getting a haircut.

But in some countries like Australia and Switzerland, tipping isn’t just unnecessary—it’s actually kinda rude. People see it as implying they need extra money to do their jobs right.

On the flip side, Americans sometimes forget to tip in places where it IS expected (like Canada).

Quick fix? Google tipping customs before you travel, and you’ll avoid a whole lot of awkwardness.

Assuming Everyone Speaks English

Yes, English is widely spoken, but that doesn’t mean everyone is fluent—or that they should be.

Americans sometimes get frustrated when people don’t understand them, even though they’re the ones visiting a different country.

It can come across as pretty entitled. We know, we know; the truth is harsh.

The easiest way to avoid this? Learn a few basic phrases in the local language. Even just knowing how to say “hello,” “thank you,” and “excuse me” makes a huge difference and shows respect.

Wearing Shoes Indoors

Americans have no problem walking into a house with their shoes on, but in a lot of cultures—especially in Asia—this is a major no-no.

In Vietnam, for example, people remove their shoes before stepping inside—and sometimes even swap them out for indoor slippers.

It’s not just about tradition; it’s also about hygiene.

Shoes track in dirt, germs, and whatever else you stepped in that day. When visiting someone’s home abroad, it’s always a good idea to ask if they prefer shoes off.

Smiling at Strangers Too Much

Americans smile a lot. Like, A LOT.

It’s totally normal here to smile at random people on the street, but in countries like Russia, excessive smiling can come off as weird or even suspicious—like, “Why is this person grinning at me for no reason?”