Travelling across the pond, Brits often find themselves baffled or amused by certain American customs. While the two countries share a language, the differences in behaviour can sometimes lead to awkward or funny moments. From enthusiastic greetings to unexpected tipping practices, there are plenty of American habits that can catch Brits off guard. Over the years, I’ve made a couple of really good friends from America. And, even after more than a decade of friendship, we still learn new things about each other’s “normal”. It’s fascinating that the culture in our countries is so similar yet so vastly different.
Gaps in Bathroom Stalls
The large gaps around public bathroom stall doors in America are a constant source of bewilderment for British visitors. The lack of privacy can lead to some awkward moments and a general feeling of discomfort. I’m not a fan of using public bathrooms anyway, but wow, large gaps around the stalls would make it so much worse. Even if you’re not a typically reserved Brit, the idea of being able to make eyecontact with a random stranger while you (or they) are on the loo is beyond awkward.
Over-the-Top Enthusiasm
Americans are known for their enthusiastic greetings and expressions of excitement. Whether it’s a loud “How are you?” or an overly friendly “Have a nice day!”, Brits can feel a bit thrown by the level of cheer. In the UK, politeness is often quieter and more reserved, making American enthusiasm feel almost overwhelming.
Tipping Culture
The tipping system in America can leave Brits puzzled. While tipping is much more casual in the UK, in the US it’s a full-on ritual. The expectation to tip anywhere from 15% to 20% at restaurants feels foreign to Brits, who might be used to just rounding up the bill. The stress of getting it right can make a simple meal feel like a financial balancing act. Unlike the UK, tipping in the US is expected, with servers often relying on their tips to meet their minimum income requirements.
Super-Sized Portions
American portion sizes often seem enormous to Brits. From giant drinks to massive plates of food, it’s easy to see why Brits are left staring in disbelief. In the UK, portions tend to be more modest, so the American “go big or go home” approach to meals can be a bit overwhelming.
Being Loud in Public
Americans are often much more comfortable raising their voices in public than Brits. Whether it’s a group of friends having a lively chat or someone taking a phone call at full volume, this level of noise can feel a bit intense for Brits, many of whom generally prefer to keep their public conversations more subdued.
Hugging as a Greeting
In America, hugging is a common way to say hello, even with people you’ve just met. Brits, who tend to favour a handshake or a polite nod, can find this level of physical contact a bit awkward. The sudden embrace might leave them feeling unsure of where to put their arms or how long to hold on. I am not a hugger. Especially not with random strangers. Saying “hi” is plenty if we’ve just met.
Referring to Football as “Soccer”
One of the classic Brit-American divides: football vs. soccer. Brits take their football (the real football!) seriously, so when Americans call it “soccer,” it’s bound to raise some eyebrows. It’s a small thing, but for football-loving Brits, the name alone feels like a reminder of the cultural gap.
Sales Tax Added at the Till
In the UK, prices on items already include VAT, so what you see is what you pay. In America, however, sales tax gets added at the till, which can leave Brits feeling a bit thrown when the total is more than expected. It adds a layer of confusion to even the simplest purchases.
Saying “Have a Nice Day” Constantly
In the UK, a simple “cheers” or “thanks” is usually enough when leaving a shop or restaurant. But in the US, it’s common to be sent off with a cheerful “Have a nice day!” every time. While it’s well-meaning, Brits often find themselves wondering how to respond or just awkwardly smiling as they walk away.
Ice in Every Drink
Americans love their drinks ice-cold, often filling cups to the brim with ice before adding the actual drink. For Brits, who generally prefer their drinks a bit more chilled than frozen, the excessive ice can feel unnecessary. It’s one of those little things that adds to the cultural differences.
Endless Small Talk
Small talk is a big part of American culture, whether you’re at a party, in a shop, or even getting your hair cut. For Brits, who are more comfortable with silence or sticking to the basics, this constant chatter can feel a bit exhausting. The pressure to keep up the conversation often leaves them longing for the quiet of home.
Advertising Prescription Drugs
In the US, it’s common to see TV commercials for prescription medications. For Brits, where such advertising is illegal, this practice can seem bizarre and even a bit unsettling.
Free Refills
While free refills might seem like a dream come true, for Brits, it can actually be a source of confusion. The concept of unlimited soft drinks is not common in the UK, leading to uncertainty about whether it’s okay to ask for more or if there’s an hidden cost. My local independent coffee shop charges 50p for a refill if you’ve also purchased food, and even this causes some confusion.
Drive-Thru Everything
The American love for drive-thru services extends far beyond fast food. Banks, pharmacies, and even wedding chapels offer drive-thru options. For Brits used to walking into establishments, the idea of conducting so much business from a car can feel strange and impersonal. I do love the idea of a drive-thru pharmacy though. Imagine just being able to pick up your prescription at the drive-thru window, without having to leave your car or endlessly wait around for the pharmacist to check your meds when you’re already under the weather.
Sharing University Rooms
For British students, the idea of sharing a dorm room with a stranger is bizarre. In the UK, university accommodations typically offer private rooms. The lack of personal space and privacy in American dorms can be a shock to the system for British students studying abroad. The whole roommate culture seems off to me. Just renting out spaces in your home to someone you’ve never met, and living with them? I cannot wrap my head around that concept.
16 American Foods Brits Can’t Stand
Food preferences can vary wildly across cultures, and what’s considered a delicacy in one country might be seen as downright bizarre in another. This cultural divide is particularly evident when comparing American and British cuisines. While the two nations share a common language, their tastes in food can be worlds apart. From overly sweet concoctions to processed cheese products, there are certain American foods that many Brits find hard to stomach.
Read More: 16 American Foods Brits Can’t Stand
Katy Willis is a writer, master herbalist, master gardener, and certified canine nutritionist who has been writing since 2002. She’s finds joy in learning new and interesting things, and finds history, science, and nature endlessly fascinating.
