13 American Things Brits Thought Were Fancy but Were Actually Very Ordinary

Sharing is caring!

I’ve always loved learning about the little misunderstandings between cultures—it’s like seeing the world through someone else’s eyes. One thing I’ve noticed is how some everyday things in the U.S. can seem incredibly fancy to visitors, especially Brits. Maybe it’s the movies, TV shows, or just cultural differences, but I find it hilarious how some of our most mundane stuff gets a reputation for being posh across the pond. It’s a reminder that what’s ordinary for one person can feel exotic to another.

Here are 13 everyday American things that left Brits wide-eyed with wonder before realizing they weren’t quite as glamorous as they seemed.

1. Red Solo Cups

To Americans, Red Solo Cups are the ultimate casual party essential. But to Brits, they’ve become a symbol of glamorous house parties straight out of a Hollywood movie. It’s probably because they’ve been featured in countless teen comedies and frat party scenes. In reality, they’re just cheap, disposable cups you can grab at any grocery store.

2. Garbage Disposals

Brits often find garbage disposals fascinating—and a little posh—when they visit the U.S. These devices are rare in the UK, so the idea of grinding up food waste at the push of a button seems high-tech and fancy. For us, they’re just a practical kitchen tool, not exactly a luxury item.

3. Drive-Thru Everything

Drive-thru restaurants? Sure. But in America, you’ll find drive-thru pharmacies, banks, and even wedding chapels! To Brits, this convenience seems indulgent and futuristic. Meanwhile, Americans just see it as part of their everyday, on-the-go lifestyle.

4. Unlimited Drink Refills

For many Brits, the concept of unlimited soda refills feels like hitting the jackpot. Back home, they’re used to paying per drink, even in chain restaurants. Here, it’s just an unspoken rule at many diners and fast-food joints—refills are free and unlimited.

5. Air Conditioning Everywhere

Central air conditioning in homes, stores, and even buses can seem like a luxury to Brits, who often only have fans or radiators in their homes. While it can feel fancy to them, in the U.S., air conditioning is often a necessity in hot climates and far from a status symbol.

6. Giant Fridge-Freezers

The stereotypical American fridge—huge, with double doors and an ice dispenser—is seen as aspirational in the UK. Many Brits have smaller, under-counter fridges and separate freezers, so an appliance that can hold a week’s worth of groceries (and then some) seems a bit luxurious.

7. Pancakes for Breakfast

To Brits, pancakes are a dessert, served thin and with lemon juice or sugar. The idea of fluffy American pancakes piled high with syrup and butter feels indulgent, even decadent. But for Americans, it’s just another breakfast option, no more “fancy” than cereal.

8. 24/7 Stores

In Britain, most stores close by early evening, and Sundays can feel like a ghost town. The idea of 24-hour grocery stores and pharmacies feels futuristic and luxurious. For Americans, though, it’s just a convenient way to grab milk at 2 a.m. if you forgot it earlier.

9. Caramel Apples

Caramel apples are a fall staple at American fairs and supermarkets, but to Brits, they seem like an elaborate dessert treat. In the UK, you’re more likely to find toffee apples, which are less common and considered a bit special.

10. Cheerleaders at High School

Movies and TV shows have painted American cheerleading as the height of high school glamour. Brits are often surprised to learn that cheer squads aren’t limited to exclusive academies—they’re at public schools, too. It’s a fun tradition, but not the elite, private-club activity some imagine.

11. S’mores

The gooey, chocolatey perfection of s’mores feels like a luxury camping treat to many Brits. It’s not common to find graham crackers in the UK, and marshmallow roasting is less of a tradition. In the U.S., though, s’mores are a standard part of campfires, not exactly Michelin-star dining.

12. Ice in Drinks

Brits often laugh about Americans’ obsession with adding ice to everything, but some secretly think it’s a sign of fanciness. At home, they’re used to sipping lukewarm drinks because ice machines aren’t as common. Here, though, ice is as basic as napkins.

13. Huge Cars and SUVs

Big American vehicles like SUVs and trucks can seem flashy to Brits, who are used to narrow streets and compact cars. But in the U.S., these vehicles are as common as pickup trucks on a farm, and no one bats an eye unless it’s a high-end luxury brand.