Essential Travel Information for the USA

Here is the Essential Travel Information you will need to make any trip to The United States of America a success!

Best Time to Visit

The United States, given its vast geographical expanse and diverse topography, experiences a myriad of climatic conditions and therefore, the best time to visit really depends on the specific regions, cities, or states you plan to explore, and your preferred activities and weather conditions. Here’s a more detailed, nuanced look at when might be the best time to visit the United States, based on several factors.

Climate Consideration

Different parts of the US experience peak seasons at different times of the year due to varied climatic conditions.

• Northeastern States like New York and Massachusetts are best visited in the fall (September to October) for the vibrant fall foliage or in spring (April to June) for mild temperatures.

• Southern States like Texas and Florida are optimal during the winter (November to March) when the climate is cooler and more manageable.

• Western States like California and Nevada are ideal pretty much year-round, but spring and fall are particularly pleasant.

• Central States like Kansas and Nebraska are most inviting in late spring to early fall.

Specific Interests

Your interests and planned activities can also dictate the optimal time for your visit.

• Skiing and Winter Sports: January to March are best for visiting mountainous states like Colorado or Utah.

• Beach Vacation: For a beach holiday, consider visiting between May and August when the weather is warm and suitable for outdoor water activities.

• Hiking and Outdoor Activities: Spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) are ideal for states with lots of outdoor activities like hiking and camping, e.g., Arizona or Montana.

Events and Festivals

The USA hosts numerous events and festivals year-round.

• Music Festivals: Summer is packed with music festivals, with events like Coachella in April and Lollapalooza in August.

• Cultural Festivals: The fall season is renowned for cultural events like Thanksgiving parades in various cities in November.

• Sporting Events: For sports enthusiasts, the Super Bowl in February and the World Series in October are significant events.

Price and Crowds

• Peak Season: June to August is generally the high season across the US due to school vacations, leading to higher prices and crowded attractions.

• Shoulder Season: April to June and September to October are generally considered shoulder seasons with moderate prices and crowds.

• Off-Peak Season: November to March (excluding holidays) can be the most cost-effective time to visit, with fewer crowds, although the weather can be a determining factor, especially in northern states.

Specific Destinations

• National Parks: Late spring to early fall is the best time to visit most national parks.

• Big Cities: Big cities like New York City, Los Angeles, and Chicago are worth visiting year-round, although they each have their own peak times based on specific events and weather conditions.

Ecotourism & Sustainability

For sustainable travel, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons to avoid contributing to overtourism during the peak seasons and explore eco-friendly accommodations and transport options.

Packing Tips

Packing for a trip to the USA requires some thoughtful consideration, given the diverse climates, varied terrains, and potential range of activities. Below are comprehensive packing tips to help you prepare for your journey.

Consider the Climate

• Research the specific climate of the regions you'll be visiting. The USA has diverse weather patterns, and what you pack should align with the expected weather conditions during your stay.

• For colder regions or seasons, pack layered clothing, thermal wear, a heavy jacket, gloves, and a hat.

• For warmer areas or times of the year, focus on lightweight, breathable fabrics, sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen.

Clothing and Footwear

• Versatile Clothing: Pack versatile, comfortable, and easily layered clothing suitable for various occasions and weather conditions.

• Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes are essential, as exploring cities and attractions often requires substantial walking. Additionally, pack appropriate shoes for specific activities such as hiking boots for trekking or flip-flops for the beach.

Essential Documents

• Keep your passport, visa, travel insurance documents, and any other necessary identification in a secure, accessible place.

• Consider having digital and physical copies of essential documents in case of loss or theft.

Electronics and Adapters

• The USA uses Type A and Type B electrical sockets, so bring the appropriate adapters for your devices.

• Pack chargers and consider a portable power bank for your electronic devices, especially if you plan on using them heavily for navigation, photography, or communication.

Health and Safety Items

• Pack a basic first aid kit with band-aids, pain relievers, and any prescription medications you may need.

• Hand sanitizer, masks, and travel-sized toiletries should also be included, given the ongoing emphasis on hygiene and safety.

Currency and Payment Methods

• While credit and debit cards are widely accepted, having some US dollars in cash can be useful for places that don't accept cards.

• Notify your bank about your travel dates and destination to avoid any issues with your cards while abroad.

Sustainable Travel Items

• Consider packing a reusable water bottle, travel mug, cutlery, and shopping bags to minimize single-use plastics.

• Opt for eco-friendly toiletries and products to reduce your environmental impact during your travels.

Specialized Equipment

• If you plan on participating in specific activities such as camping, skiing, or snorkeling, ensure you have the necessary gear or verify rental options beforehand.

Currency

The currency used in the United States is the United States Dollar, symbolized as USD or "$". The United States Mint produces the currency, and the Federal Reserve System manages and distributes it. Here is an in-depth overview of the currency in the USA:

Coins:

Coins are available in the following denominations:

• Penny: 1 cent (copper-colored)

• Nickel: 5 cents (silver-colored)

• Dime: 10 cents (silver-colored, smaller in size)

• Quarter: 25 cents (silver-colored)

• Half Dollar: 50 cents (less commonly used)

• Dollar Coin: $1 (less commonly used)

Banknotes:

Banknotes or bills come in several denominations and are color-coded for easy identification:

• $1 bill: Green and features a portrait of George Washington.

• $2 bill: Green and features a portrait of Thomas Jefferson (less commonly used).

• $5 bill: Green and features a portrait of Abraham Lincoln.

• $10 bill: Orange and features a portrait of Alexander Hamilton.

• $20 bill: Green and features a portrait of Andrew Jackson.

• $50 bill: Red and features a portrait of Ulysses S. Grant.

• $100 bill: Blue and features a portrait of Benjamin Franklin.

Usage and Acceptance:

• Widely Accepted Payment Method: Cash is accepted almost everywhere, but credit and debit cards are also prevalent and often preferred.

• ATMs: ATMs are widely available across cities and towns and allow you to withdraw cash using a debit or credit card. Be mindful of fees that may apply.

Currency Exchange:

• Currency can be exchanged at airports, banks, and currency exchange offices, but it's wise to compare rates as they can vary significantly.

• Using ATMs to withdraw cash often offers better exchange rates than currency exchange offices.

Cashless Transactions:

• The United States has a well-developed infrastructure for cashless transactions. Credit/debit cards, mobile payments, and online payments are widely used.

• Visa, MasterCard, and American Express are the most widely accepted credit card brands.

Sales Tax:

• Prices displayed usually do not include sales tax, which varies by state and is added at the time of payment.

Time Zone

The United States spans multiple time zones due to its vast geographical expanse. Here are the primary time zones across the country, from east to west, along with some of the states and territories located in each:

Eastern Standard Time (EST) / Eastern Daylight Time (EDT)

• UTC -5 (EST) / UTC -4 (EDT) during Daylight Saving Time

• States: New York, Georgia, Ohio, North Carolina, and others.

• Capital: Washington D.C. is also in this time zone.

Central Standard Time (CST) / Central Daylight Time (CDT)

• UTC -6 (CST) / UTC -5 (CDT) during Daylight Saving Time

• States: Texas, Illinois, Missouri, Wisconsin, and others.

Mountain Standard Time (MST) / Mountain Daylight Time (MDT)

• UTC -7 (MST) / UTC -6 (MDT) during Daylight Saving Time

• States: Arizona, Colorado, Montana, New Mexico, and others.

Pacific Standard Time (PST) / Pacific Daylight Time (PDT)

• UTC -8 (PST) / UTC -7 (PDT) during Daylight Saving Time

• States: California, Washington, Oregon, and Nevada.

Alaska Standard Time (AKST) / Alaska Daylight Time (AKDT)

• UTC -9 (AKST) / UTC -8 (AKDT) during Daylight Saving Time

• State: Alaska

Hawaii-Aleutian Standard Time (HST) / Hawaii-Aleutian Daylight Time (HDT)

• UTC -10 (HST) / UTC -9 (HDT) during Daylight Saving Time (Most of Hawaii does not observe DST)

• State: Hawaii

Atlantic Standard Time (AST)

• UTC -4 (AST)

• Territories: Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands

Daylight Saving Time:

Most states in the U.S. observe Daylight Saving Time, typically starting on the second Sunday in March and ending on the first Sunday in November. However, Hawaii, most of Arizona, and some U.S. territories do not observe Daylight Saving Time.

Bargaining

Bargaining is not a typical or standard practice in the majority of purchasing situations in the United States, especially in retail stores, supermarkets, restaurants, and other established businesses, where prices are usually fixed and non-negotiable.

Communication

Wi-Fi Service in the USA:

Availability:

• Ubiquitous Access: Wi-Fi is widely available across the USA in urban, suburban, and even in many rural areas.

• Public Spaces: Airports, hotels, coffee shops, restaurants, libraries, and many other public spaces usually offer free or paid Wi-Fi access.

• Residential Areas: Most homes have private Wi-Fi networks, set up through subscription-based Internet Service Providers (ISPs).

Security:

• Public Wi-Fi Risks: Public networks can be less secure, and it’s advisable to avoid accessing sensitive information or performing important transactions over such networks.

• VPN Usage: Using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) can enhance security while using public Wi-Fi by encrypting the connection.

Costs:

• Free and Paid Options: Many places offer free Wi-Fi, but some might charge a fee or offer the service as part of a loyalty program or subscription service.

• Wi-Fi in Accommodations: While many hotels and lodgings offer complimentary Wi-Fi, some may charge additional fees, especially for higher-speed access.

Mobile Phone Service in the USA:

Providers and Coverage:

• Major Providers: AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile are the principal mobile network providers, offering extensive coverage across the country.

• MVNOs: Several Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs) like Mint Mobile and Cricket Wireless provide services using the networks of the major carriers, often at lower prices.

• Coverage Variation: While coverage is generally good in urban and suburban areas, it can be spotty or unavailable in remote or mountainous regions.

Plans and Costs:

• Variety of Plans: Providers offer a range of plans including prepaid, postpaid, family plans, and unlimited data plans to suit different needs and budgets.

• Prepaid SIM Cards: For short-term visitors, purchasing a prepaid SIM card can be a cost-effective option to access mobile services.

• International Roaming: Visitors can also use international roaming services from their home providers, but this can be more expensive.

Compatibility and Regulations:

• Device Compatibility: Not all foreign phones are compatible with US networks, so it’s essential to check if your device supports the local network bands.

• Regulatory Compliance: All mobile devices used in the USA must comply with local regulations and standards, so ensure your device is compliant to avoid connectivity issues.

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is a customary and prevalent practice in the United States. It's typically expected in service-oriented establishments and is considered a vital component of service workers’ income. Here is a general guideline on tipping etiquette in the USA:

Restaurants and Bars:

• Full-Service Restaurants: It’s customary to leave a tip of 15-20% of the pre-tax bill amount. Some diners may tip more for exceptional service.

• Bars: A common practice is to tip $1-2 per drink or 15-20% of the tab.

  
  

• Fast Food or Takeout: Tipping is not expected.

• Food Delivery: A tip of 10-20% of the bill or $2-5 is standard, depending on the order size and difficulty.

Accommodations:

• Hotel Housekeeping: It’s polite to leave $2-5 per night, usually left daily as housekeeping staff may vary.

• Bellhops: A tip of $1-2 per bag is customary for those who assist with luggage.

• Concierge: If the concierge provides a special service like securing a reservation, a tip of $5-20 is appropriate, depending on the level of service.

Personal Services:

• Hairdressers and Barbers: A tip of 15-20% is customary.

• Manicurists and Spa Services: It is typical to tip around 15-20%.

  
  

Transportation:

• Taxi Drivers: A tip of 15-20% of the fare is standard, with a minimum of $1.

• Shuttle Drivers: For free shuttles, a tip of $1-2 per bag is customary if the driver assists with luggage.

• Ride-Share Services: Apps like Uber and Lyft have in-app tipping options, with 15-20% being standard.

  
  

• Tour Guides: A tip of around 10-20% of the tour cost is customary.

  
  

Electric Plugs

In the United States, the standard electric plug is Type A or Type B. Here are the specifics for each:

Type A Plug:

• It has two flat parallel pins.

• It is ungrounded and has no earth pin.

• Often used for double-insulated devices or those that don't require grounding.

Type B Plug:

• It has two flat parallel pins and a grounding (earth) pin.

• It is a grounded plug, providing an extra level of safety against electric shock.

• It is the more commonly used type for appliances that require grounding.

Voltage and Frequency:

• The standard voltage in the USA is 120V, and the standard frequency is 60Hz.

• This is different from many other countries that use 220-240V, 50Hz standards.

Sustainable Travel Tips

Sustainable travel involves adopting practices that minimize your environmental impact, support local communities, and preserve cultural heritage. Here are several sustainable travel tips tailored for visiting the United States:

Opt for Eco-Friendly Transportation:

• Use Public Transportation: Opt for buses, trains, subways, or trams whenever possible, especially in urban areas.

• Rent Hybrid or Electric Vehicles: If renting a car, choose fuel-efficient, hybrid, or electric models.

• Bike or Walk: Explore cities and towns by walking or renting a bike.

• Choose Direct Flights: Flying direct reduces carbon emissions compared to multiple shorter flights.

Support Responsible Accommodations:

• Stay in Eco-Friendly Hotels: Look for accommodations with green certifications or sustainable practices, such as energy conservation and waste reduction.

• Use Airbnb or Vacation Rentals: Opting for rented apartments or houses can often be more sustainable than hotels.

• Conserve Resources: Minimize water and energy usage by reusing towels, turning off lights, and avoiding excessive water use.

Choose Sustainable Activities:

• Visit National Parks and Protected Areas: Supporting conservation areas helps preserve natural habitats and biodiversity.

• Practice Leave-No-Trace Principles: Dispose of waste properly, stay on marked trails, and avoid disturbing wildlife.

• Opt for Eco-Tours: Choose tour operators with responsible environmental and social practices.

Support Local Communities:

• Buy Local Products: Support local artisans, farmers, and businesses by purchasing locally made products and foods.

• Dine at Locally-Owned Restaurants: Opt for restaurants that source local and sustainable ingredients.

  
  

Be Mindful of Water Use:

• Conserve Water: Be conscious of water usage, especially in areas experiencing droughts, such as California.

• Use Reusable Water Bottles: Avoid single-use plastics by carrying a reusable water bottle and refilling it as needed.

Reduce Waste:

• Use Reusable Bags, Utensils, and Containers: Carry reusable items to reduce reliance on single-use plastics.

• Recycle: Familiarize yourself with local recycling guidelines and dispose of recyclables properly.

• Minimize Food Waste: Order only what you can eat and consider sharing dishes at restaurants.

Offset Your Carbon Footprint:

• Calculate Your Emissions: Use online calculators to estimate the carbon footprint of your travel.

• Purchase Carbon Offsets: Consider buying carbon offsets through reputable organizations to mitigate your environmental impact.

Tips for Families

Traveling with family can be rewarding, and the USA is home to a plethora of family-friendly attractions catering to diverse interests. Here are some travel tips and specific recommendations for families visiting the USA:

Travel Tips:

1. Plan Ahead:

   • Research and book accommodations, transportation, and attractions in advance to avoid last-minute hassles.

   • Consider the preferences and needs of all family members while planning the itinerary.

2. Pack Essentials:

   • Pack snacks, entertainment, and comfort items for children, especially during long journeys.

   • Carry a first-aid kit, medications, and other essentials.

3. Stay Flexible:

   • Build flexibility into your schedule to accommodate unexpected changes or opportunities.

   • Have a mix of structured activities and free time.

4. Prioritize Safety:

   • Keep an eye on your belongings and be aware of your surroundings.

   • Have a plan in case someone gets lost, such as a designated meeting point.

Family-Friendly Attractions:

1. Walt Disney World Resort (Orlando, FL):

   • A world-renowned theme park offering a magical experience for families with rides, shows, and character meet-and-greets.

2. Yellowstone National Park (WY, MT, ID):

   • Explore geysers, hot springs, and wildlife in America’s first national park, with plenty of educational and recreational opportunities for children.

3. San Diego Zoo (San Diego, CA):

   • One of the world’s most famous zoos, housing over 3,700 animals, offers a fun and educational experience for families.

4. The Smithsonian Museums (Washington, D.C.):

   • A collection of museums and galleries offering free admission, covering topics from natural history to space exploration.

5. Academy of Sciences (San Francisco, CA):

   • A scientific institution with an aquarium, planetarium, and natural history museum, offering interactive exhibits for children.

6. The Field Museum (Chicago, IL):

   • An internationally renowned natural history museum featuring fascinating exhibits, including dinosaur skeletons and ancient artifacts.

7. Universal Studios (Orlando, FL & Hollywood, CA):

   • A theme park offering thrilling rides, shows, and attractions based on movies produced by Universal Pictures.

8. Grand Canyon National Park (AZ):

   • A stunning natural wonder offering breathtaking views, hiking trails, and educational programs for families.

9. The Metropolitan Museum of Art (New York, NY):

   • A world-class art museum offering family-friendly programs and exhibits, including armor, musical instruments, and ancient artifacts.

10. Aquarium of the Pacific (Long Beach, CA):

    • An engaging aquarium featuring marine animals from the Pacific Ocean, interactive exhibits, and touch tanks.

11. Mall of America (Bloomington, MN):

    • The largest shopping mall in the U.S. also features the Nickelodeon Universe theme park, SEA LIFE Aquarium, and mini-golf.

12. Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex (Titusville, FL):

    • Explore space exploration history, meet astronauts, and experience space simulations.

Useful Local Apps

When visiting the USA, several apps can help make your journey more convenient, informed, and enjoyable. Here is a list of useful apps across various categories that you might find handy:

Navigation and Transportation:

• Google Maps: For reliable maps, directions, and navigation, whether you’re driving, walking, biking, or using public transportation.

• Waze: A community-driven navigation app that provides real-time traffic conditions and route suggestions.

• Uber/Lyft: Ride-sharing apps that can be more convenient and sometimes cheaper than taxis.

  
  

Food and Dining:

• Yelp: Provides reviews and ratings for restaurants, bars, and other local businesses.

• OpenTable: Helps in reserving tables at restaurants and exploring dining options.

• Uber Eats/DoorDash/Grubhub: Offer food delivery and takeout from local restaurants.

Finance and Currency:

• XE Currency: Offers live exchange rate information and currency conversion.

• Venmo: Useful for splitting bills or sharing expenses with friends.

  
  

Weather:

• The Weather Channel: Provides accurate and up-to-date weather information and forecasts.

• AccuWeather: Offers detailed weather forecasts, including minute-by-minute precipitation predictions.

Communication and Connectivity:

• WhatsApp: A widely used messaging app for text, voice, and video calls.

• Skype: Useful for making video calls and international calls.

• Google Translate: Helps in translating text, spoken words, and even signs using your camera.

Entertainment and Information:

• Eventbrite: Discover local events, concerts, and festivals.

  
  

• TripAdvisor: Offers travel information, reviews, and recommendations for attractions, restaurants, and accommodations.

Shopping:

• Amazon: Convenient for purchasing items you might need during your trip with speedy delivery options.

• Groupon: Find deals and discounts on activities, dining, and shopping.

• Instacart: Get groceries delivered to your accommodation from local stores.

Outdoor and Adventure:

• AllTrails: Discover hiking, biking, and running trails with reviews and information.

• REI Co-op National Parks Guide: Offers detailed guides and information for visiting National Parks.