Last Updated on October 14, 2024
Travel superstitions are beliefs or rituals people follow to ensure a safe and successful trip. Every culture has its own superstitions to stay on the right side of fate.
Whether you believe in superstitions or not, it’s good to know that they do exist, the reasons why they do, and the different superstitions you’ll find in the US and other parts of the world.
Being a frequent traveler myself, having lived in Europe and explored many parts of the globe, I admit to finding travel superstitions fascinating. Do I necessarily believe them? Some I do, some I don’t. Nonetheless, I pay attention to these cultural beliefs passed down from ancestors around the world.
Carrying a travel talisman
Many believe that lucky charms are the best way to ward off bad luck and misfortune while traveling. I have friends who never travel without wearing a Saint Christopher charm, the patron saint of travelers, drivers, sailors, and storms.
Does it work? Let me just say that if wearing some kind of lucky charm on a trip whether it be a four-leaf clover, amulet or penny in your shoe provides more emotional comfort, then it has in many ways, served its purpose.
Avoiding the number 13
Have you noticed that at many hotels, the elevator will list the 12th and 14th floor, but skip the 13th? And in plenty of airplanes, you won’t find a 13th row of seats. Also, there are those who refuse to travel on the 13th, especially if it falls on a Friday.
This anxiety regarding the supposed unlucky number even has a name: triskaidekaphobia. What are the origins of this superstition? Though it is not definitely known, there are several theories traced to ancient times regarding Judas Iscariot as the 13th guest of the Last Supper to Norse legend regarding the mischievous god Loki.
Interestingly, in Italy, the number of 17 is associated with bad luck, while in China, it’s the number 4.
Avoiding the curse of Pele
If you’ve ever been to the Big Island of Hawaii, home to Volcanoes National Park and Kilauea, the world’s largest active volcano, you’ll realize that Hawaiian superstitions still exist, and in some places, are stronger than ever.
Pele is the goddess of fire and volcano and legend has it she resided in the crater of Kilauea on Hawaii Island. Many believe that visitors taking anything natively Hawaiian, such as sand, rock or pumice will bring bad luck to themselves.
One version of the legend’s genesis is that a park ranger, angry at the number of rocks taken from the island from visitors, said that Pele would curse them. True or not, there is story after story of visitors returning items to the region because they experienced bad luck after leaving the island with these “souvenirs.”
Kissing the Blarney Stone
While Irish myths and legends are plentiful, there is one almost everyone has heard of: the tradition of kissing Ireland’s Blarney Stone. Even this legend has numerous stories of why bestowing a kiss on this rock will in turn give the gift of eloquence and pervasiveness.
Whether true or not, the Blarney Stone has been kissed by millions including Winston Churchill, Ronald Reagan and Mick Jagger.
Tossing a Coin in the Trevi Fountain
My first visit to Rome was during my middle school years and I instantly fell in love. When I heard the legend of throwing a coin in the Trevi Fountain, I was captivated. Tossing a coin with your back to the fountain, right hand over left shoulder isn’t merely a casual gesture, but a time-honored ritual.
Though some believe that tossing multiple coins will attract love, the practice dates back centuries carrying the promise of a return to Rome. It must have worked, as I’ve happily returned to the Eternal City many, many times.
Protective Power of the Evil Eye
The concept of the evil eye is thousands of years old and includes the need to wear a talisman for protection against unwanted energies.
The evil eye or “mati” is a common superstition in Greece and Turkey and across the Mediterranean. These blue amulets with an eye in the center are believed to deflect evil and misfortune. Travelers often carry or wear these as necklaces, keychains or hang them in vehicles to shield themselves from bad luck during their voyages.
Angering the Spirits of Mexico’s Chichen Itza
In the annals of ancient history, Chichen Itza stands as a monument to the spiritual wisdom of the Maya civilization. The grandeur of this impressive archeological site is not just a testament to the engineering marvels of the Mayans but also a reflection of their deep connection to the spiritual underworld.
For many, a visit to Chicken Itza, a UNESCO World Heritage Site isn’t just a tour of an archeological site but a transformative experience. Its archeological value is astounding but its enduring spiritual legacy captivates the imagination of people worldwide.
Visitors should be respectful of the heritage of ancient Mayan ruins. Although it may be tempting to climb on ancient structures to snap that perfect selfie, this is strictly prohibited at most Mayan sites and could result in arrest or even worse, spiritual disfavor and mala suerte (bad luck).
When all is said and done, travel should be approached with a rational mind. However, understanding the roots of superstition and respecting cultural norms and beliefs is crucial and respectful. No matter where your adventures lead.
