Whether you’re booking a trip to the beach, planning a cross-country adventure, or writing your next travel blog post, you’ve likely encountered two different spellings: “traveling” and “travelling”. At first glance, they might seem interchangeable.
After all, they both refer to the same activity—journeying from one place to another. However, if you’re writing for a global audience or just want to sound professional, knowing which spelling to use can make a significant difference.
In this article, we’ll explore the correct spelling of “traveling” vs. “travelling,” understand the differences between American and British English, dive into grammar rules, and highlight when each version is appropriate. Plus, we’ll look at real-world examples to help you confidently navigate the issue.
So, let’s get started!
American vs. British English: The Root of the Confusion
The confusion between “traveling” and “travelling” stems from the differences in American English and British English. While both words convey the same meaning, the spellings diverge based on the regional variations of English.
American English: Simplifying Spelling Rules
In American English, the rule is simple: “traveling” uses a single “l.” This is part of a larger trend in American spelling to simplify certain words by dropping extra letters that are common in British English.
This shift is mainly attributed to the influence of Noah Webster, an American lexicographer, grammarian, and language reformer who played a key role in shaping American English in the 19th century.
Webster believed that English spelling should be simplified to make it easier to learn and use. For example, he pushed for “color” instead of “colour” and “honor” instead of “honour”. Likewise, he recommended dropping the extra “l” in words like “traveling” and “canceling”.
British English: Holding Onto Tradition
On the other hand, British English tends to keep the double “l”. This tradition comes from the older rules of English spelling, where verbs ending in a vowel + “l” would double the final consonant before adding “-ing.”
For example, “travelling” follows the same pattern as “cancelling” and “modelling” in British English.
In British English, this pattern is maintained to preserve the original spelling conventions, so when writing for a UK-based audience or following British English guidelines, it’s important to use “travelling”.
Grammar Rule Behind the Spelling Difference
To fully understand the distinction between “traveling” and “travelling,” it’s important to dive into the grammar rules that govern spelling changes in American and British English.
Doubling Consonants in British English
One of the key rules is doubling the final consonant when adding the “-ing” suffix. This rule is primarily seen in British English, where the final consonant is doubled if the verb ends in a single vowel followed by a single consonant (with some exceptions, of course).
For example:
- Travel → Travelling
- Model → Modelling
- Cancel → Cancelling
However, this rule only applies when the final consonant is preceded by a single vowel and is not a diphthong. It also doesn’t apply to verbs with more than one syllable where the stress isn’t on the final syllable (e.g., “favor” becomes “favored,” not “favouring” in American English).
American English’s Simplified Approach
In American English, the rule is a bit simpler. When verbs end in a single vowel + consonant (such as “travel”), the final consonant is not doubled before adding “-ing.” This makes the spelling of words like “traveling” and “canceling” more streamlined.
Where Each Spelling is Used
Understanding where each spelling is appropriate is essential for writers and travelers alike. Whether you’re writing for an international audience or just want to be consistent in your writing, knowing the rules for American and British spelling can help you avoid confusion.
Countries That Use “Traveling”
- United States
- Philippines
- Liberia
- Some Caribbean nations
In these regions, “traveling” with a single “l” is the standard and most widely accepted spelling.
Countries That Use “Travelling”
- United Kingdom
- Canada
- Australia
- New Zealand
- South Africa
In these areas, “travelling” with a double “l” is the preferred form.
Which One Should You Choose?
If you’re targeting a specific region, always choose the spelling that aligns with local language conventions. F
or example, if you’re writing a travel blog for a UK audience, use “travelling.” Conversely, if your audience is predominantly American, use “traveling.”
If you’re unsure, and you’re writing for a global audience, you can consider sticking to American English for consistency, as it’s more widely accepted around the world.
Real-World Usage Examples
To further clarify the usage of “traveling” vs. “travelling,” let’s look at real-world examples of both spellings in action across different types of writing.
In Published Literature
- “Traveling”: Common in works published by American authors or books printed in the United States. For example, books by authors like John Grisham or Stephen King often use “traveling.”
- “Travelling”: Found in books or articles published in the UK or by British authors. For example, books by J.K. Rowling or articles in The Guardian are more likely to feature “travelling.”
In Academic Writing
- “Traveling”: In academic writing for an American audience, you’ll almost always see “traveling”. Universities and journals based in the US tend to follow American spelling rules.
- “Travelling”: In British or Commonwealth academic writing, you’ll likely encounter “travelling” in formal papers, research articles, and reports.
In Brand/Website Usage
- American Airlines: Their website uses “traveling” (as expected for a US-based company).
- British Airways: This UK-based airline uses “travelling” in its promotional materials and website content.
Common Mistakes and Misconceptions
Many writers and learners make the mistake of using “travelling” and “traveling” interchangeably, regardless of the regional spelling rules. This can lead to inconsistencies in your writing, especially if you’re working within a formal context.
Common Misconceptions
- “One spelling is more correct than the other.”
Both spellings are correct within their respective regions (American or British English). The real issue is ensuring consistency. - “Using ‘travelling’ is old-fashioned.”
Not true! The double “l” is still widely used and perfectly acceptable in British English and many other parts of the world.
Advice for Writers, Students, and Professionals
When you’re writing professionally, whether it’s an email, academic paper, or travel blog, it’s essential to maintain consistency with your spelling. Here are some tips to help you choose the right version:
Tips for Writing
- Know your audience. Always adapt your spelling to the audience you’re writing for. For American readers, use “traveling.” For British or Commonwealth readers, use “travelling.”
- Don’t mix them. Consistency is key! Avoid switching between “traveling” and “travelling” within the same document.
- Check your style guide. Many professional writers rely on style guides like APA, the Chicago Manual of Style, or the Oxford English Dictionary to ensure correct spelling and usage.
Quick Reference Table: Traveling vs. Travelling
| Feature | Traveling (US) | Travelling (UK) |
| Language Style | American English | British English |
| Doubling of L | No | Yes |
| Example Sentence | “I am traveling to New York.” | “I am travelling to London.” |
Conclusion
Whether you choose “traveling” or “travelling,” the most important thing is understanding the spelling rules and applying them consistently. American English prefers the single “l,” while British English opts for the double “l.” As a writer, it’s essential to choose the correct spelling based on your target audience.
With these rules in mind, you’ll avoid common mistakes and write more confidently. So, whether you’re traveling the world or just writing about it, always remember: it’s all about consistency and clarity.
FAQ Section (Based on Real Search Queries)
Q: Is it spelled traveling or travelling in Canada?
A: Canada uses both versions, but “travelling” is more common in British-influenced regions like Ontario, while “traveling” may be seen in American-influenced areas.
Q: Why does British English double the “l”?
A: British English maintains the historical spelling convention of doubling consonants before adding “-ing,” a rule that simplifies pronunciation and keeps the word consistent with its roots.
Q: Can I use either version in academic writing?
A: No, it’s important to choose one version and stick with it throughout your academic paper, based on the style guide or the country you’re writing for.
Q: What’s the past tense: traveled or travelled?
A: “Traveled” is the American English version, and “travelled” is used in British English.
Hania Tyee is a passionate spiritual guide and writer at angelnumbering.com, specializing in the interpretation of angel numbers and their significance in daily life. With a deep interest in numerology and metaphysical insights, Hania is dedicated to helping readers understand the hidden messages from the universe, fostering personal growth and spiritual awareness.
