Ready to visit USA? Start your USA trip planning here. Our USA travel guide gives first-time visitors the key facts on ESTA USA and other essentials for a smooth American adventure.
Popular tourist cities in USA
Planning to visit USA? Explore our latest articles about cities, featured in our comprehensive USA travel guide.
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USA Travel Guide: Key Travel Information for Visiting the United States.
USA Trip Planning: What to Know Before You Arrive
- Visa & ESTA:
- First and foremost, check entry requirements well in advance. Specifically, citizens of Visa Waiver Program countries must obtain an ESTA authorization online before travel. In contrast, others will need to secure a visa directly from a U.S. embassy or consulate.
- Travel Insurance:
- It is important to note that travel insurance is highly recommended, due to the fact that U.S. healthcare costs are extremely high for visitors. Therefore, securing a policy is strongly advised.
- Power:
- Regarding electrical standards, U.S. electricity operates at 120V/60Hz. Common plug types include A (two flat pins) and B (two flat pins + round ground). As a result, you will likely need an adapter and, depending on your device, possibly a voltage converter as well.
Getting Around the USA: Transportation and Travel Guide
- Domestic Air Travel:
- For long-distance travel, domestic flights are essential. Key hub airports across the country include Atlanta (ATL), Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW), Denver (DEN), Chicago O’Hare (ORD), and Los Angeles (LAX).
- Car Rental:
- For the greatest flexibility when exploring outside major cities, renting a car is the best option. Keep in mind you must drive on the right side of the road. Fortunately, the network of interstate highways is highly efficient for both cross-country and regional travel.
- Public Transit:
- Public transportation varies significantly from city to city. Notably, robust systems exist in New York (Subway), Washington D.C. (Metro), Chicago (L-Train), and San Francisco (BART/MUNI). However, many other metropolitan areas largely require a car.
- Train (Amtrak):
- Train travel via Amtrak can be scenic on specific routes, such as the Northeast Corridor or the California Coast. It is important to note, however, that it is generally slower and more expensive than flying over long distances.
USA Top Destinations: Iconic Places to Visit
- Cities:
- The United States boasts major urban centers including New York City, Los Angeles, Chicago, San Francisco, and Washington D.C. Additionally, popular destinations feature Las Vegas, Miami, Boston, New Orleans, and Seattle.
- Natural Wonders:
- From coast to coast, iconic landscapes define the country. Must-see sites include the Grand Canyon, Yellowstone & Yosemite National Parks, and Niagara Falls. Furthermore, travelers can explore Alaska’s glaciers, Hawaiian volcanoes, and the Great Smoky Mountains.
- Cultural Landmarks:
- American history and innovation are showcased through its famous landmarks. Key sites range from the Statue of Liberty and the Golden Gate Bridge to the White House and Mount Rushmore. Finally, modern icons like the Las Vegas Strip and Walt Disney World in Florida draw millions of visitors annually.
USA Travel Guide: Essential Travel Tips for Visitors
- Tipping:
- Tipping is firmly expected in service industries. As a general rule, standard tips are 15–20% at restaurants and bars. In addition, it is customary to leave $2–5 per night for hotel housekeeping, $1–2 per bag for porters, and 15–20% for taxis and rideshares.
- Sales Tax:
- Be aware that prices displayed in the U.S. are typically before tax. A sales tax—ranging from 6–12%—is then added at the register, and this rate varies significantly by state, county, and even city.
- Measurement System:
- Unlike most of the world, the U.S. uses the Imperial System. This means distances are shown in miles (not kilometers), temperature in Fahrenheit (not Celsius), and measurements in feet/inches and ounces/pounds.
- Safety:
- In case of emergency, the nationwide number to call is 911. While general travel precautions apply, it is always important to be aware of your surroundings, especially in unfamiliar areas.
USA Trip Planning: Managing Money & Travel Costs
- Currency: U.S. Dollar (USD, $). Credit/debit cards are accepted almost everywhere. Inform your bank of your travel plans.
- Cost Variation: Prices vary drastically by region (e.g., coastal cities vs. rural Midwest) and type of travel.
- Bargaining: Not customary except at flea markets or for major purchases like cars.
Important USA Travel Guide Notes & Advice
- Size & Diversity:
- First, remember the U.S. is geographically vast and culturally diverse. As a result, the climate, customs, local laws, and even accents can change dramatically from place to place. Therefore, it is best to avoid trying to see “everything” in a single trip.
- Entry Rules:
- It is important to note that U.S. Customs and Border Protection maintains strict entry procedures. Consequently, you should have all required documents—such as your passport, visa/ESTA, and return ticket—readily available and be prepared to clearly state the purpose of your visit.
- National Parks:
- For travelers planning to visit multiple national parks, a practical tip is to consider the “America the Beautiful” Annual Pass, which can offer significant cost savings.
- Health Protocols:
- Finally, always follow the current CDC guidelines regarding any required vaccinations or testing to ensure a smooth and compliant visit.
Official USA Travel Resources & Government Sites
- U.S. Travel & Visa Information: travel.state.gov
- ESTA Application: esta.cbp.dhs.gov
- Centers for Disease Control (CDC): cdc.gov/travel
- National Park Service: nps.gov