Lisa O
We all have our quirky little habits. They’re so routine that we sometimes forget they’re not the norm for everyone. While they might seem totally normal to our friends, family, and neighbors, to outsiders, some things we do can seem pretty unusual. Take Americans, for example. So many of their daily habits seem a little odd to people across the pond, but not to them. Here are 15 unusual things only Americans do.
Drinking Iced Coffee Year-Round
In the U.S., iced coffee isn’t just a summer thing—it’s a year-round obsession. Iced coffee is always in style, whether it’s freezing cold or ridiculously hot outside. Americans love to jazz it up with flavors like vanilla, caramel, or even pumpkin spice. They’ve also made drinks like “iced lattes” and “cold brew” super popular, turning iced coffee into a big deal in coffee culture.
Using Paper Towels Like They’re Going Out of Style
While most countries rely on cloth napkins or reusable towels, Americans go through stacks of paper towels each week. They use them for everything from wiping down counters to cleaning up spills and even as makeshift napkins. Some people even use them as plates when they don’t want to bother with dishes, which makes you wonder—are paper towels America’s secret obsession?
Celebrating Thanksgiving with a Feast
Thanksgiving in the U.S. is like a food festival. Turkey is the star, but you’ve also got cranberry sauce, green bean casserole, sweet potatoes, and a ton of desserts like pumpkin pie and pecan pie. The food coma that comes after is no joke. And the Thanksgiving Day Parade is a huge deal, with millions tuning in to watch the floats and performances light up the streets.
Tipping Everywhere
In the U.S., tipping isn’t just a nice thing to do—it’s pretty much expected. You’re supposed to leave 15–20% at restaurants, but it doesn’t stop there. People tip baristas for coffee, taxi drivers for rides, and even hotel housekeeping staff. What’s interesting is that many service workers depend on these tips to make a living, which can make tipping feel like a game of “How much should I leave?” every time.
Holidays with a Twist
Americans love to take holidays and turn them into something extravagant. Halloween is a prime example. In the U.S., it’s a massive event where people decorate their homes with skeletons, pumpkins, and cobwebs. Kids go door-to-door for candy, but it’s also common for adults to throw costume parties. Then there’s Christmas, where stores start displaying decorations as early as November 1st.
Speeding with No One Around
While most countries have strict traffic laws, Americans seem to have a more laid-back approach when it comes to highways. If the road is clear, many drivers push the pedal to the metal—often going above the speed limit without a second thought. It’s not unusual to see cars zipping down wide, open roads at speeds well over what’s posted on the sign, especially in more rural or less populated areas.
Loving Extra Large Portions
In the U.S., bigger is always better, especially when it comes to food. Restaurants serve up giant portions of everything, and it’s not uncommon to see people take home a box of leftovers. This portion craze even extends to fast food chains, where a “small” fry could be enough to feed two people. And while some might find it wasteful, it’s an American tradition to offer more for your buck (even if it means overeating).
Calling Everyone “Sir” or “Ma’am”
The Southern charm of addressing someone as “Sir” or “Ma’am” might sound old-fashioned, but it’s still very much alive in American culture. While it’s common in the South, it’s also spread across the country. It’s not just about being polite—it’s a sign of respect and deference. You’ll hear it in all kinds of interactions, from fast food workers addressing customers to kids talking to their parents’ friends.
Going Wild for Football (Not Soccer)
When most of the world hears “football,” they think of soccer. But in the U.S., football means the sport with helmets, tackles, and touchdowns. Every fall, the country goes crazy for it, especially during the Super Bowl. Football games aren’t just about the sport—they’re about the community experience. Tailgating before games, watching with friends, and even the halftime shows have turned it into a cultural celebration that stretches far beyond the field.
Owning Huge Cars
Americans are all about big cars, especially SUVs and trucks. For them, it’s not about size—it’s about convenience, comfort, and sometimes even a little bit of status. All these cars are perfect for road trips. And let’s not forget they all love huge trucks, whether they use them for construction or just cruising around suburban streets.
The Love for Peanut Butter and Jelly
Americans have a strange yet endearing obsession with peanut butter and jelly sandwiches. It’s the ultimate comfort food—simple, quick, and satisfying. The creamy peanut butter and sweet jelly combo is loved by kids and adults alike. Some even take it up a notch by adding banana slices or using different types of bread.
Making Small Talk Everywhere
Small talk is practically an American art form. In line at the grocery store, waiting for a bus, or while filling up gas, Americans strike up casual conversations with strangers. The funny thing is, even if you’re not super into chatting, Americans will often ask about your day or give you compliments like, “I love your shoes!”—all in the spirit of friendliness.
Loving “DIY” Projects
The DIY (Do-It-Yourself) culture in the U.S. is a huge deal. Whether it’s building your own furniture, creating home decor, or tackling a backyard project, Americans seem to have a knack for DIY. There are entire TV networks like HGTV dedicated to home improvement, and every weekend, you can find people at hardware stores buying up tools and supplies.
Having Drive-Thrus for Almost Everything
Want to pick up your prescription? There’s a drive-thru for that. Need to cash a check or make a deposit? Drive-thru banking has you covered. You can even buy a coffee or get your groceries without leaving your car. Drive-thru culture is all about convenience, especially for those busy Americans who don’t want to waste any time getting out of their vehicle.
Celebrating High School Graduations Like a Major Event
In the U.S., high school graduations are a big deal. Families throw elaborate parties, students wear caps and gowns, and ceremonies often feature speeches and diplomas handed out one by one. Some families go all out with catered meals, decorations, and even professional photographers. To outsiders, it might seem over-the-top, but for Americans, it’s a rite of passage worth celebrating.
