Before traveling to any country, it is best to do some research. It is reassuring to know, ahead of time, some things that will help you get the most out of your trip. After all, traveling should be fun, not stressful! This article will share five tips that are helpful to consider when going to America.
1. Consider Transport
Before you travel, try and fly to an airport which is easiest to get through. In a country as large as America there are so many airports of different sizes, and it is best to think about which one will be best for you.
Once in America, if you are looking to see other parts of the country, air travel is most likely. To lower costs, however, there is the option of buses or hiring a car and driving yourself. Take note that there are not many train services in much of the country, so that is not much of an option there.
2. Make Sure You Have the Correct Documentation
Having the right documents is crucial when traveling to America. You do not want to spend part of your trip stuck being questioned in an airport. Globally, those going to America are divided into two broad categories – those from countries that require a visa, and those who are traveling from countries which have a visa waiver.
The status of your country can be checked on U.S. immigration websites. For those from countries with a visa waiver, it is imperative to have a U.S. Esta travel authorization before travel. It confirms that you are eligible to travel without a visa.
3. Buy Comprehensive Medical Insurance
When traveling to America, on indeed anywhere out-with your own country, it is essential to have medical insurance. While it can be tempting to choose the cheapest option, this may prove to cost you, or your family, dearly if you end up needed to use the insurance. Depending on where you came from, you may be used to free healthcare or low-cost provision. However, in America, the prices are very high, and medical insurance is a must.
4. Think About Luggage – Traveling Light or Heavy?
Luggage is another factor you should consider. If you are only visiting for sight-seeing or to visit friends, you may be wanting to travel with all you need to save spending time, once there, buying bits and pieces you didn’t take.
If, however, you love to shop and are seeking to take advantage of the lower prices for designer goods over in America then it is a good idea to pack as lightly as possible and leave plenty of room for those great value items. You might even consider paying to fly with an extra, empty suitcase (or better, still, two half-filled suitcases) if you really intend to ‘shop till you drop!’
5. Remember to Tip
While tipping can be optional or offensive in some parts of the world, in America, it is considered part of the culture that you will tip. Not tipping will be sure to cause a stir. This is the case for all staff in the service industry whether this is leaving a tip on your pillow of the hotel room for the maid, handing a tip to the porter who carried your luggage, or the waiting staff in any restaurant you eat in. How much should you tip? 15-20% is the standard in America.
Conclusion
If you think about the above factors before traveling, you are sure to have a smoother trip. It is also worth asking those you personally know who have gone to America for their tips so you can be really well prepared. Hopefully, with reading this, you feel more prepared for traveling to the U.S.A.
