10 Things Americans Do That Make Europeans Think They’re Rich

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10 Things Americans Do That Make Europeans Think They’re Rich

When Americans travel to Europe, they often stick out for reasons they might not even realize. From their dining habits to the way they get around, some of their norms can really throw Europeans for a loop. Let’s look at the top 10 things Americans do that make Europeans think they’re loaded with cash. You might find some of these quite surprising, and hey, they might even make you think twice about how these habits come off when you’re abroad!

1. Ordering Way Too Much Food – And leaving half of it behind

Ever noticed how when some Americans eat out, they order heaps of food, only to leave a good chunk of it untouched? In many European countries, this kind of behavior is pretty unusual. People generally order what they can eat, and leftovers aren’t as common. So, when Europeans see this, they might think, “Wow, they must have money to waste if they’re leaving all that food!” It’s not just about wasting food; it’s seen as a sign of financial freedom that many might find excessive.

2. Tipping Like a High Roller – 20% minimum? Europeans tip if they feel like it

In the US, tipping 20% at a restaurant is pretty standard, but in Europe, tipping is more relaxed. Europeans usually tip only if the service was exceptional, and even then, it’s often much less than 20%. When Americans tip big in Europe, it can look like they’re throwing around money just because they can, which definitely screams ‘rich’ to the average European waiter or waitress.

3. Driving Giant Cars – Even in cities where parking is a nightmare

Why do some Americans love their big cars so much? In many European cities, where streets are narrow and parking is a tight squeeze, driving a giant SUV can seem pretty impractical. When Europeans see Americans cruising around in their massive vehicles, it’s easy to think that these folks must have money to burn on extra gas and parking fees that come with a bigger car.

4. Drinking Iced Coffee Year-Round – That’s an expensive habit

Iced coffee is a staple for many Americans, regardless of the season. In many parts of Europe, however, iced coffee is a summer treat and can be pretty pricey. So, when Americans order their iced lattes even in the dead of winter, it can look like a luxurious habit that only those with disposable income can afford.

5. Wearing Brand-New Sneakers Constantly – Sneakers are a status symbol in some places

In the US, having a fresh pair of kicks can be a big deal, and some people wear new sneakers all the time. In Europe, where fashion can be a bit more understated, the constant showcase of brand-new footwear can appear as though Americans are always ready to spend big on looking good.

6. Spending Hundreds on Halloween Decorations – A full yard setup? Feels excessive

Halloween is big in the US, with many going all out on decorations. This isn’t as common in Europe. A house fully decked out in spooky gear can lead neighbors to think that these homeowners must be flush with cash to splurge on decorations just for a single night of the year.

7. Having a Closet Full of Clothes – Many Europeans have a capsule wardrobe and can’t fathom an entire walk-in

While many Europeans prefer a more minimalist approach to their wardrobes, some Americans have clothes bursting out of their closets. This abundance of apparel can seem extravagant and is often interpreted as a sign of wealth.

8. Taking Luxurious Road Trips – Gas is cheap in the US, but abroad, long drives cost a fortune

In the US, hitting the road for a trip is a relatively affordable adventure thanks to cheaper gas prices. In Europe, where fuel costs can be high, such lavish road trips can seem like a luxury only the well-off can afford regularly.

9. Booking Last-Minute International Flights – Americans don’t realize that’s a luxury

Last-minute travel plans can be costly, especially when it comes to international flights. Americans making spontaneous trips abroad may not realize just how luxurious this can seem to Europeans, who are more accustomed to booking well in advance to save money.

10. Casually Talking About College Debt in the Six Figures – If you can afford that level of debt, you must be rich… right?

In many parts of Europe, education doesn’t lead to massive debts like it can in the US. So, when Americans casually mention their six-figure college debts, it can sound like they’re comfortably managing huge amounts of money, which to a European, rings of wealth.