How to Dress Like a Tourist for Halloween

Tourists are known for tacky dress, and many also carry a camera.

A homemade tourist costume can make for a humorous Halloween costume, suitable for an individual, couple or a group. Furthermore, this costume can serve as an ideal "last-minute" Halloween outfit, since many individuals are apt to find the costume components in their closet and around the house. In addition to dressing the part, Halloween enthusiasts can "up the ante" by acting the part as well, making for a potentially humorous costume idea for October 31.

Clothing

A tourist wearing a typical Hawaiian shirt.

Tourist clothing is traditionally very casual and somewhat tacky. The more gaudy your outfit, the more humorous your costume will be. Tourists frequently wear clothing items that are characteristic of the region where they're traveling. For instance, Hawaiian tourists are apt to wear Hawaiian print shirts. T-shirts bearing a destination name are also suitable. Pair the shirt with khaki shorts and sandals. For extra humor, wear socks with the sandals. If you're dressing up as a group or couple, coordinate your clothing in style; you may also consider wearing identical shirts.

Cameras

The stereotypical tourist is often easy to spot, thanks to the camera around his neck, which makes a camera a vital element of your Halloween costume. In addition, tourists typically take lots of photographs, so act the part! Pose with fellow Halloween party guests and ask others to take the photo. In addition to humoring others, you may end up with some great keepsake photos from your Halloween night.

Maps and Accessories

The stereotypical tourist often has a map and/or tourist pamphlets, so consider including these items in your costume. Carry the maps and pamphlets or display them prominently in your breast pocket. If you're a Hawaiian tourist, consider wearing a flower lei. Other suitable accessories include a baseball cap bearing a destination name, a straw hat and sunglasses. Tourists also often spend a lot of time outdoors, so the stereotypical tourist often bears a white nose owing to a smear of zinc oxide sunblock; consider adding this element to your costume. If you don't have zinc oxide, use a bit of white clown makeup.

Acting Like a Tourist

The most humorous tourist costumes will involve a bit of acting. For instance, if you have a down moment, look lost and examine your map or pamphlet. Tourists also tend to travel in pairs or groups, so stick together if you're dressing up with a friend, partner or a group of friends. Many travelers also enjoy drinking, so carry around a cocktail. Overall, vacationers are laid-back, relaxed and ready for a good time, so enjoy yourself and take lots of photos.

References

• Costume Super Center: Tacky Vegas Tourist Adult Costume