It’s a well-known fact that I am short. I get teased about it often. And have been teased about it my entire life. My family is short so it’s a hereditary thing. The short jokes I’ve heard range from laugh out loud funny to absolutely dull. I once told a guy who was trying to insult me for being vertically challenged that his attempts to make me feel bad for being short were futile. I mean there’s a lot about me that’s imperfect and that ok. But, using my height to insult me is unoriginal and merely displays a lack of imagination. Being short can be annoying but, for me, it has had much more advantages. Sure every time I need to reach a high shelf it’s like I’m climbing a jungle gym but it good exercise. And when it comes to travelling being short is a big plus. So here’s my list of why it’s so great to be a short traveller.
Legroom
This is an obvious one when I’m sitting on a bus I can stretch my legs out. Even plane seats are roomy for me. I can sit comfortably and yes I do notice the envious sometimes humorous looks I get from fellow travellers.
Blood Clots
A 2017 Swedish study suggests that shorter individuals might be less susceptible to developing blood clots compared to taller people. The research indicates that taller individuals may have longer veins, which could provide a larger area where clots can develop (Zamon, 2017).
Comfortable Beds
Being shorter has its perks, especially when it comes to sleeping arrangements. I never have to worry about my feet hanging off the end of the bed, whether I’m staying in hotels, hostels, or chalets. This ensures a comfortable night’s sleep no matter where I am traveling.
Navigating Crowds
Navigating through crowds is another advantage of being short. Smaller individuals can often slip through tight spaces and get closer to the front of a crowd with ease. For instance, during a visit to the Louvre in 2016, I managed to squeeze my way to the front to get a close-up photo of the Mona Lisa. While I enjoyed the close view, I made sure to move aside promptly, as being short doesn’t mean I should take up extra space.
Perfect Positioning for Photos
Being shorter has its perks when it comes to group travel photos. I often find myself right in the front, ensuring that my face is always visible in the shot. Unlike taller individuals, who might block others with their elbows or heads, my position guarantees a clear view in every group photo. Additionally, my ability to fit into small spaces can create unique and well-framed photo opportunities. These advantages ensure that I’m always prominently featured in our travel memories.
Enhanced Social Interactions
Studies have shown that people tend to be more compassionate and friendly towards those who appear cute, and being shorter often evokes this positive response. According to research, “cuteness may help to facilitate well-being and complex social relationships by activating brain networks associated with emotion and pleasure and triggering empathy and compassion” (The Conversation, 2016). This phenomenon has been evident in my own travels, where I frequently encountered kindness and friendliness from strangers.
For example, during a solo trip to Berlin, I was unexpectedly included in an impromptu photo shoot at Checkpoint Charlie. The friendly locals joked that I resembled Shakira and lifted me into the air for fun, creating a memorable and joyful experience. Unlike other tourists who received only one photo, my friends and I were able to capture multiple shots, all thanks to the ease with which they could lift me due to my height. This playful and generous gesture highlighted how being shorter can sometimes lead to delightful and unique travel moments.
Personal Umbrellas
One unexpected benefit of being short is having tall friends who act as your personal umbrellas. They naturally provide shade, making sunny days more comfortable. In the photo below, you can see my two close friends, who not only offer friendship but also protect me from the sun. Thanks for the shade, ladies!
 Stylish and Budget-Friendly Finds
As a shorter person, reaching for items on high shelves can be a challenge, but there are distinct advantages to shopping in the kids’ section. Children’s clothing can be surprisingly stylish, and shopping there allows me to save money on my wardrobe. Many of my travel outfits are composed of pieces I’ve purchased from the kids’ section, including the dress shown in the image below. Embracing this shopping strategy not only helps me find great clothes at a lower cost but also adds a unique touch to my travel style.
No More Head Bumps
As a shorter person, bumping my head in public is a rare occurrence. Street signs and door archways are typically positioned well above my height, reducing the risk of accidental knocks. Additionally, I don’t have to bend down in airplanes, making travel more comfortable. Unlike the stormtrooper shown in the image below, who struggles with low door frames, my height helps me avoid such inconveniences.
Easier Navigation in Tight Spaces
I have a passion for exploring caves, and being shorter offers significant advantages in this adventurous activity. Although I haven’t explored caves extensively, I find it incredibly enjoyable. My smaller stature allows me to easily fit into tight spaces, making it easier to navigate through cave networks. For instance, during the Echo Valley hike in Kalk Bay, I was able to crawl and slide through various caves with ease. The photo below, taken from inside a cave on the Echo Trail, showcases the unique perspectives and accessibility that come with being short.
Sources and Further Reading
For more information on the benefits of being short, check out these sources:
HuffPost: The Advantages of Being Short
The Conversation: How Cuteness Influences Behavior
NPR: The Secret Advantage of Being Short
Whether you’re short or tall, travel can be an amazing experience. Your journey depends on your attitude and how you choose to embrace your travel adventures.
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Wishing you happy travels!
Nikkidiscovers 