More alcohol, fewer rules and impulsive behavior: the Radical Storage study reveals what really happens when we travel
Is there a real propensity to ignore social norms when we travel? The data of Radical Storagean international luggage storage network, seem to confirm this hypothesis. Experts call this behavior «tourist syndrome»: a psychological condition that causes individuals to exhibit unusual impulsiveness and deviate from their rigorous habits once they cross domestic boundaries. The study, based on a survey conducted by the company on over 1,200 travellersanalyzes tourists’ habits and behaviors during travel, revealing a surprising and sometimes controversial aspect of the travel experience.
More than half of tourists change their behavior on holiday
Research shows that beyond the 56% of people admit to doing something on the road that they wouldn’t normally do in their daily lives. A transformation that especially concerns the youngest: among Gen Z the percentage exceeds 70%.
The holiday is in fact perceived as a space of freedom, a moment in which it is easier to get out of the routine and let go. Far from home and daily habits, many travelers feel less bound by the social rules that normally guide their behavior. This translates into behaviors that none of us would normally adopt, but which are perceived as “legal” during a pleasure trip.
Small transgressions and questionable behavior
The most surprising fact concerns the relationship with the rules. Beyond four out of ten tourists say they have broken at least one law during a holiday, while almost half admit to having done something abroad that they would never do in their own country.
Among the most widespread behaviors emerge some «transgressions typical of mass tourism. There are those who pose disrespectfully next to statues or historical monuments, those who occupy common spaces or deckchairs in beach establishments to secure the best place, or those who collect plants, sand or small natural elements in places where they would not be allowed.
Actions that are often perceived as harmless by tourists, but which can create strong tensions with local communities or cause damage to cultural and environmental heritage.
Hotels, alcohol and little travel secrets
The survey also highlights other typical holiday behaviors. 85% of those interviewed admit to having taken something from a hotel, although in most cases it is simply toiletries or small objects made available to guests.
Over half of travelers also say they drink more alcohol than they do on a daily basis, while more than 40% confess to having cheated on their partner during a holiday.
At the same time, many tourists demonstrate a certain awareness: around half of those interviewed say they have felt embarrassed, in retrospect, about their behavior during a trip.
When you get into trouble: the «tourist card»
Another curious fact concerns the strategy used when one is discovered and risks a sanction or reprimand. Almost 50% of tourists admit that they would try to play the so-called “tourist card”, pretending not to know the local rules to avoid problems.
A behavior that is particularly widespread among younger travellers, who tend to perceive travel as a more permissive context compared to daily life.
Travel with awareness
«Traveling means discovering new cultures and new places, but also respecting them», he comments Alessandro Seina, CEO of Radical Storage. «Our research shows that many tourists tend to let themselves go when they are away from home. It’s understandable, but it’s important to remember that each destination is first and foremost a community that lives and works in those places».
Along the same lines too Stefano Manzi, Country Manager Italy of Radical Storagewhich highlights the importance of promoting more responsible tourism. «Global tourism continues to grow and with it the responsibility of travelers also grows. Our goal is to help make the travel experience simpler and more pleasant – for example by freeing people from the weight of luggage – but also more aware and respectful of the territories that host us».
