11 Things Americans Do That Puzzle Even Other Americans

Americans are known for their strong sense of individuality, but sometimes their customs and habits don’t just baffle outsiders; they confuse their fellow citizens too. The U.S. is a massive country with diverse regional cultures, and what’s perfectly normal in one state might seem outlandish in another.

Yet, beyond regional quirks, some nationwide behaviors make even longtime residents stop and wonder, “Why do we do this?” The following are some things Americans do that leave even other Americans scratching their heads.

Using Paper Checks in 2025

Despite the rise of digital payments, some Americans still pull out a checkbook to pay rent, bills, and even groceries. While most of the world has moved on to faster, more efficient payment methods, the U.S. banking system clings to checks like a relic of the past. Many young Americans have never written one in their lives, yet businesses and landlords still insist on them, making this outdated practice both frustrating and baffling.

Tipping for Almost Everything

Tipping is second nature in America, but even Americans can get confused by the ever-expanding list of situations where it’s expected. Restaurant servers? Absolutely. Bartenders? Sure. But now, screens at coffee shops, self-checkout kiosks, and even fast-food joints ask for a tip. It’s left many wondering: where does it end? Even for minimal service, the pressure to tip makes Americans just as bewildered as visitors.

The Love for Giant Portions

Walk into any American restaurant, and your meal will likely be big enough to feed at least two people. From oversized burgers to pasta dishes that could fill an entire family, portion sizes in the U.S. are on another level. Many Americans take leftovers home without a second thought, but even they sometimes wonder, “Why are servings so massive in the first place?”

The Love Affair with Ice

If there’s one thing Americans insist on, it’s ice in their drinks. A simple glass of soda or water arrives filled with ice, often diluting the beverage when you get to the last sip. This practice baffles those who prefer their drinks chilled but not watered down. Some Americans even travel abroad and realize, perhaps for the first time, that not everyone considers ice an essential part of hydration.

The Obsession With College Sports

While professional sports dominate in most countries, college athletics in the U.S. are treated with almost religious devotion. Massive stadiums fill with thousands of screaming fans, and college athletes are celebrated like superstars. Some Americans, especially those not into sports, find it odd that so much money and attention are poured into student athletics.

Tuning in to Over-the-Top Local News

American local news broadcasts often feel more like high-stakes thrillers than simple reporting. Dramatic music, sensational headlines, and in-depth coverage of minor car chases make even mundane stories seem urgent. While staying informed is important, some Americans admit that local news stations prioritize entertainment over actual news.

Vanity License Plates Everywhere

Personalized license plates are everywhere in the U.S., with drivers proudly displaying custom messages like “GR8MOM” or “DOGDAD” on their cars. Some states make it incredibly easy to get one, leading to roads filled with puns, inside jokes, and even passive-aggressive messages aimed at other drivers. While some find them amusing, others wonder why so many people are willing to pay extra to make a statement on their license plate.

Pharmaceutical Ads That Seem Like Sketch Comedy

Only the U.S. and New Zealand allow prescription drug commercials on TV, and even Americans find them strange. They often feature cheerful actors playing frisbee while a soothing voice lists terrifying side effects like “may cause sudden death.” The abrupt shift from sunshine and rainbows to potential medical horrors leaves many wondering why these ads exist.

Drive-Thru Everything

Americans love convenience, but the number of things you can do without leaving your car is astonishing. Drive-thru coffee? Sure. Fast food? Of course. But drive-thru pharmacies, liquor stores, and even wedding chapels? That’s where things get a little weird. Some Americans embrace the efficiency, while others wonder, “Are we really that opposed to getting out of our vehicles?”

Inconsistent Alcohol Laws

America’s alcohol laws are all over the place. In some states, you can buy liquor at a grocery store; in others, you must go to a special government-run shop. Some places let you drink openly on the street, while others will fine you for carrying a beer in public. Even Americans who have lived in multiple states get confused about what’s allowed and where.

Tons of Flags Everywhere

Americans love their flags. You’ll find them outside homes, on clothing, in classrooms, and even on cars. While patriotism is common worldwide, the number of flags in America can feel overwhelming, even to other Americans. Some embrace it as a sign of national pride, while others wonder if maybe, just maybe, it’s possible to love your country without turning your entire wardrobe red, white, and blue.

Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.

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