TRAVEL
Who Not to Ask for Directions While Traveling
By Riley Rae
Published on January 24, 2026
credits to: Giuliana Fava / Dupe
Traveling often means navigating unfamiliar streets, languages, and customs. At some point, almost every traveler finds themselves needing help—whether it’s finding a train platform, a bus stop, or the right street. Most people you’ll encounter are kind and genuinely willing to help. Still, being in an unfamiliar place can make it harder to read intentions.
Knowing who to avoid asking for directions isn’t about suspicion—it’s about awareness. When you understand the subtle behaviors that signal trouble, you can move through new places with more confidence and far less stress.
When Someone Feels Too Eager to Help
One of the most common warning signs is someone who approaches you unsolicited, especially if you look even slightly lost. Helpful people usually respond when asked; scammers often initiate contact themselves.
These individuals may open with friendliness or concern, quickly offering to help without you prompting them. Instead of giving simple directions, they might suggest walking you there, taking a shortcut, or “showing you around.” What seems like kindness can quietly become control over where you go next.
If someone insists on helping beyond what you asked for, that’s a cue to disengage. Clear directions don’t require accompaniment.
People Who Are Overly Eager or Talk Too Much
Genuine help tends to be calm and straightforward. When someone becomes overly enthusiastic, speaks rapidly, or overwhelms you with unnecessary information, it’s worth being cautious.
You might notice they avoid giving direct answers or keep changing the subject. They may repeat how easy or safe something is, or pressure you to trust them quickly. This behavior can create confusion, which makes it easier for someone to steer you in a direction that benefits them.
A safe interaction feels simple. If it feels chaotic or rushed, it’s okay to walk away.
People Who Ask Personal Questions Before Giving Directions
When you ask for directions and the person responds with questions about where you’re staying, how long you’re in town, or whether you’re traveling alone, that’s a sign to disengage. Helpful locals usually focus on the location you’re asking about, not your personal details.
These questions may seem casual, but they can be a way of assessing your vulnerability. You don’t owe anyone your story just because they’re being “nice.” A trustworthy interaction stays transactional—directions in, directions out.
If someone keeps redirecting the conversation back to you instead of the route, trust that instinct telling you to move on.
When the Directions Involve Money, Shops, or “Official” Help
Another common situation travelers run into is being directed toward a specific business, taxi, tour service, or “office” that supposedly handles what you’re looking for. This often comes with reassurance that it’s the safest or fastest option.
Scammers tend to insert themselves as middlemen. Instead of pointing you toward a street or landmark, they position themselves—or someone they know—as necessary to your journey. If directions start sounding like a sales pitch, that’s your cue to politely step away.
Clear directions don’t require payment, commitment, or obligation.
People Who Create Urgency or Pressure
Be cautious of anyone who rushes you, warns you that you’re running out of time, or insists you act immediately. Creating urgency is a common tactic used to override your judgment.
They might say things like the route is dangerous, the place is closing soon, or you’ll miss out unless you follow them right away. This pressure can make you act before you’ve fully processed the situation.
Safe guidance doesn’t require urgency. You’re allowed to pause, think, and decide for yourself.
When They Don’t Respect Your Boundaries
Pay attention to how someone responds when you try to disengage. If you say thank you and they continue following you, talking, or insisting on helping, that’s a clear signal to move on.
Respectful people accept boundaries without resistance. Anyone who ignores your cues is showing you that their priority isn’t your comfort.
Your safety matters more than being polite.
Who Is Usually Safe to Ask Instead
When you do need help, look for people who appear grounded in their environment. Someone working at a café, a shop, a hotel, or a transit station is often a safer choice. Families, older individuals, or people clearly commuting tend to offer help without expectation.
The safest interactions feel neutral. The person answers your question, points you in the right direction, and continues on with their day. There’s no pressure, no lingering, no added agenda.
Trust how your body feels during the exchange. Calm is a good sign.
Trusting Yourself When Something Feels Off
One of the hardest things travelers do is talk themselves out of their intuition. You might worry about being rude, judgmental, or dramatic. But discomfort is information. You don’t need proof to remove yourself from a situation that doesn’t feel right.
You’re allowed to say thank you and walk away. You’re allowed to change your mind. You’re allowed to prioritize your safety over politeness.
The more you trust yourself, the easier it becomes to navigate unfamiliar places with confidence instead of fear.
