When you travel to experience a new place, it’s like opening a brand-new book. The sights, sounds, smells, and sensations are all waiting for you to turn each page.

But here’s the thing—just like there are many kinds of readers, there are many kinds of travelers. Some dive headfirst into every detail. Others barely scratch the surface. And some? They’re in it for the photos, the company, or the thrill of novelty.

Which one are you?

Let’s explore the 12 types of travelers—and see which number feels like you.

1. Just glance at the cover — and never open the book

You arrive, see the postcard-perfect view, click a few photos, and check it off your list. No deep dives, no wandering off the beaten path—just enough to say you’ve “been there.”

2. Skim random pages to get a vague feel for it

You explore a little here, a little there—sampling the food, visiting one or two landmarks—but never immersing yourself enough to connect with the real essence of the place.

3. Read the blurb or preface, guess what’s inside, and never return

You hear the guide’s opening speech or read a few quick facts, and you think you “get” the place. The rest of the trip is spent on autopilot, confident you’ve already figured it out.

4. Read every page till the very end — and be blown away

This is the traveler who lives and breathes every detail. They’ll walk the tiny backstreets, talk to locals, and absorb history, culture, and hidden gems until the trip becomes a soul-deep memory.

5. Read part of it and either long to come back… or never touch it again

Some destinations leave you yearning for more; others make you feel like you’ve seen all you need to. Either way, you leave knowing whether it’s a “return” or a “one and done.”

6. Read because you have to, not because you want to

You’re traveling for work, family obligations, or a wedding—not because it’s on your dream list. You still make the most of it, but the spark of wanderlust isn’t leading the way.

7. Pretend to read, but never really do

You post the photos, buy the fridge magnets, and nod along to conversations about your trip—but deep down, you know you never truly explored beyond the surface.

8. Read just to show others you’re “a reader”

This type of traveler is in it for the status. They choose trending locations or “Instagrammable” spots just to show they’ve been, rather than because they genuinely want to be there.

9. Read because everyone else is reading

FOMO is the driver here. If a place is buzzing in your friend circle or going viral online, you book it—whether or not it’s actually your style.

10. Read to make friends with other readers

For you, travel is a social bridge. Group trips, festivals, and meetups are less about the destination and more about the bonds you build along the way.

11. Re-read the same book again and again

You have “your” place. You return every few years, staying in the same neighborhood, eating at the same cafés, and visiting the same sights. For you, comfort and familiarity are part of the joy.

12. Pick up a new book every single chance you get

The perpetual wanderer. You’re always chasing fresh experiences—new cities, new cultures, new adventures. You collect destinations like others collect souvenirs.

So… Which Kind of Traveler Are You? There’s no “right” way to travel—just as there’s no single way to enjoy a book.

Some journeys demand a deep read. Others are best as light skims. What matters is knowing your style, embracing it, and allowing yourself the freedom to experience each trip in a way that feels most authentic to you.

So… what kind of traveler are you? Drop your number (1–12) in the comments, and let’s see which “chapters” of the world we’ve all been reading lately.