Confusing words explained
“traveling” vs “travelling” — What’s the Difference?
'Traveling' (one l) is American; 'travelling' (two l's) is British.
Key takeaway
Quick Difference: traveling vs travelling
'Traveling' (one l) is American; 'travelling' (two l's) is British.
traveling vs travelling Side-by-Side Comparison
Meaning of traveling
Moving from one place to another, especially over a distance.
Going from place to place; taking a trip or journey.
Use American spelling 'traveling' in American English writing.
- She is traveling to Japan.
- They were traveling through Europe.
Meaning of travelling
Moving location regularly
The British spelling of the present participle of travel, meaning moving from one place to another on a journey.
Use this double-l pattern in British English for verbs ending in vowel plus consonant.
- I am travelling to London next week.
- Travelling by train costs less.
Usage Notes & Nuance
travelling: British doubles the l before adding -ing; American uses traveling.
How to Remember the Difference
American writers travel light with one L; British writers double up with two Ls.
Common Mistakes with traveling and travelling
Mistake with traveling
Correct: In American English, use 'traveling' with one l.
Mistake with traveling
Correct: American: 'traveling'; British: 'travelling'.
Mistake with travelling
Correct: Use travelling with double l
Mistake with travelling
Correct: Keep spelling consistent in text
Practice Quiz: traveling or travelling?
Choose the word that best completes each real example sentence.
Question 1
She is _____ to Japan.
Question 2
They were _____ through Europe.
Question 3
_____ broadens your perspective.
Pick at least one answer, then press Check answers to see how you did.
You scored 0 out of 3
Frequently Asked Questions About traveling vs travelling
What’s the difference between “traveling” and “travelling”?
'Traveling' (one l) is American; 'travelling' (two l's) is British.
When should I use “traveling”?
Use American spelling 'traveling' in American English writing.
When should I use “travelling”?
Use this double-l pattern in British English for verbs ending in vowel plus consonant.
How can I remember traveling vs travelling?
American writers travel light with one L; British writers double up with two Ls.
Is it “traveling” or “travelling” in example sentences?
Use the quiz above to test the pair with real example sentences from the available word data.