Are you looking for practical information for your trip to the United States? With everything from visas and car rental, to how much to rip, there is a lot to remember! And while may not be the most exciting part of planning your trip, but it's still important. But that's why we've put together some easy to follow information to help you get started!
If you have any doubts or questions about the information you read here, we will of course be happy to help you and answer any questions you may have.
Contact our travel experts when and where it suits you, appointments are even possible in the evening or on the weekend. We are available to answer your questions and discuss your plans wherever and whenever it suits you best.
To enter the United States, non-American visitors are required a valid passport and authorisation via the Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA). ESTA is an automated system that determines whether travellers are permitted to enter the USA under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP).
If you are from one of the 37 countries that do not require a visa for the US, you can stay for up to 90 days, once you have applied for an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorisation). Do make sure you apply at least 72 hours before your departure.
You can apply for the ESTA electronic entry authorisation here: https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov/esta
New since June 2023: ESTA can also be applied for via app using a smartphone, mobile device or tablet. With the official ESTA app, you can start your application, scan your passport, upload your live video selfie and much more.
The official language of the United States is English (officially American English).
Although, in many regions, especially in the southern states and large cities, Spanish is also widely spoken. In tourist areas and large cities, it is not uncommon to come across multilingual signs and information. If you speak English, you will have no problem communicating, but even with a little knowledge of Spanish you will be well-prepared.
There are 423 National Parks in the United States, designated and protected for their natural beauty. They cover more than 84 million acres and are in every state of the country. Yellowstone was the first National Park established in 1872 and Sequoia and Yosemite followed soon after.
In the United States, the US dollar (USD) is used for payment. The dollar is divided into 100 cent denominations. There are coins worth 1 cent (penny), 5 cents (nickel), 10 cents (dime), 25 cents (quarter), as well as rarer coins worth 50 cents and 1 dollar. Banknotes are available in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 20, 50 and 100 dollars. It is advisable to obtain a small amount of cash from your bank before travelling in order to be prepared for your first expenses.
Credit and debit cards, as well as Apple or Google Pay, are widely accepted throughout the country. Visa, MasterCard and American Express are the most common means of payment. However, in rural areas and smaller shops, it is possible that only cash is accepted. Before travelling, check that your bank card has global coverage, otherwise it will not work in the US.
In the United States, tipping is an important part of income for many service workers. Here are some general guidelines:
Driving in the United States is an easy and great way to discover the country's diverse landscapes and fascinating cities at your own pace. The roads are wide and outside the major cities, you are often travelling alone or with few other road users. From iconic roadtrips like Route 66 or Highway 101, all the way to small but picturesque country roads, America's roads offer a variety of experiences. Here you will find important information to make your journey as pleasant and safe as possible.
Your British driving licence is valid in the United States. Also when renting a car. However, we recommend that you also bring an International Driving Permit. As some car hire companies will require that you have an International Drivers Permit before they will let you rent a car from them. However, please be aware that this does not replace your British driving licence, therefore you will need to bring both documents. An International Driving Permit is available at post offices throughout the UK for approximately 5.50 GBP.
Please also note that to hire a car, you will need a valid credit card.
The traffic rules in the United Sates are quite different to those in the UK. Here are a few special features that you should be aware of:
The phone number for contacting emergency services, including the police, medical services, and firefighters in the United States is 911.
Hopefully you won't need it, but emergency health care in the United States is very expensive if you are not insured. Here are some important tips for your trip:
A long-haul flight from the UK to the USA requires careful preparation to ensure a pleasant journey. Adjust your sleep schedule a few days before departure to minimise jet lag and stow all travel documents, including your passport, visa and any necessary insurance information, within easy reach in your hand luggage.
Pack strategically by packing the essentials, such as:
The USA offers an impressive variety of climate zones, which vary greatly depending on the region. This diversity allows travellers to enjoy different landscapes and activities throughout the year. While in the southern states, you should always equip yourself with sun protection and headgear, for the north-west and north-east it is best to wear an onion look and carry a rain cape, as the weather can change quickly, even in summer.
The United States spans a total of six time zones on the mainland, and several more outside the Continental US. This can lead to different time differences when travelling within the country. Here is an overview to help you plan your trip:
Questions? Speak to one of our specialists by phone Mon - Sat 0900 until 2100. You can discuss your travel plans in detail where and when it suits you, also in the evenings and on weekends on a no obligation basis.
020 36 08 35 57
