Have you been thinking about visiting the USA? Here we’ll go over what you’ll need to prepare for it. Here are 11 easy steps to plan your trip.

1. Tourist visas for the USA

Citizens of some countries can get a 90-day visa waiver, known as the ESTA, online. Not being a Visa it can only be used as a travel authorization. It’s nothing but a travel authorization. It will cost you at least $14.00. Apply at least 72 hours prior to your boarding date. Keep your ESTA available during check-in as you won’t be permitted on the plane without it. Your passport, as a form of ID, should have at least six months of validity remaining.

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2. Planning your itinerary

To plan your dream trip to the US you need to decide what you want to do and see. Do you want to focus mainly on National Parks (such as the Grand Canyon or Yosemite), amusement parks (such as Universal Studios or Disneyland), road trips (such as Route 66), mountains, beaches, or major metropolises (New York City, Los Angeles)? Perhaps you want to explore various cultures in the US, attend events and festivals or sample the various foods and beverages offered here.

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3. Research activities

The US is a popular tourist spot so you need to expect booked out tours and long lines. Decide what attractions and activities you don’t want to miss. Book ahead whenever possible.

If you visit a place such as New York City that includes numerous attractions, you can save time and money with special sightseeing/fast passes. You can even purchase USA USA Sightseeing Passes valid fast passes at theme parks will keep you out of the long lines too.

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4. Booking accommodations

There are endless options in the US: Airbnb, apartments, hotels, motels, and more. You can easily book these places online. Mind you, if you’re only staying for a night or two, a hotel or motel is fine.

There are usually low-cost places on the outskirts of town and close to interstates. You’ll still get free breakfast, free parking, and free Wi-Fi too. Unfortunately, Airbnbs now have extra fees and taxes so it may only work out for extended stays. Always compare costs.

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5. Flying to and within the USA

While flights between major cities can be direct, anything else will require changing planes. That will require extra time. You also need to allow enough time if you’re getting off an international flight and catching a domestic flight.

You’ll need more than two hours. Plan time to clear immigration, picking up luggage, and clearing security again. Be ready to empty pockets, remove shoes, belts, and coats too. Finally, you can book flight/package deals online at such sites as Momondo or Skyscanner.

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6. Non-air travel in the USA

Many visitors prefer to drive if they have to travel for less than four hours. The classic “ American Road Trip” can be a fun way to discover the “real America.” You can also travel by bus and buy tickets online with companies such as Greyhound or Megabus.

You can even explore the US in large group tours or on bus tours. Finally, you can travel via train. Amtrak tickets and USA Rail Passes (for 15-45 days) can be purchased online too.

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7. Wi-Fi and being connected

You’re on vacation! Unless you must be connected for work, disconnect. Enjoy yourself. You can update family using free Wi-Fi. Free Wi-Fi is available at most hotels, cafes, restaurants, movie theatres, and most big attractions.

If you think your personal data is so valuable, use a VPN. If you insist on your own connection, consider roaming devices like SkyRoam or WiWander or go to a US Verizon store and buy a local sim card plan.

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8. Accessing your funds

You’ll find ATMs almost everywhere in the US. Retail businesses even have them built into the registers. Almost everyone takes debit and credit cards.

ATMs may have fees. So check with your bank to see if your card issuer has a business relationship with any US bank. If so, chances are you’ll avoid withdrawal fees. Be aware though that many banks charge you an international conversion fee on withdrawals. Most only apply it to purchases.

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9. Cost of travel

It’s good to have a rough idea of what things cost before arriving. That way, you can save enough spending money. The cost of your accommodations should be clear when you book them.

The cost of food will vary. Popular places will have slightly higher prices. Even a fast-food meal will cost roughly $6.00.

If you plan on renting a car, check on gas prices before leaving. Making reservations will otherwise help you with your budget as will saving some funds for such things as souvenirs, taxes, tips, and unexpected expenses.

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10. Travel Insurance

Anything can happen when you travel. For a relatively small investment, you get security and some peace of mind. Note any especially adventurous activities in which you may be engaging (such as skiing) and note all pre-existing conditions so you will be fully covered.

Be sure to purchase your travel insurance immediately after booking your flights and accommodations so that you are covered for any potential trip cancellation issues. As this goes to press, the cost of travel insurance for coming to the US can be higher than when traveling to other countries.

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11. Specific packing tips

You need to pack for the weather in the specific areas of the US you will be visiting. You can buy many travel-related items you may forget cheaply in the US. Check the exchange rate before leaving.

If it favors you then leave room in your suitcase. You will want to do some shopping in the US. Don’t forget your medicines as you won’t want to try refilling them in the US.
Purchase an international plug adaptor and/or a voltage converter for your electronics. The US runs on 60Hz and 120V supply voltage. Remember comfortable walking shoes too!

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