Are you planning an epic trip to the good old USA post covid? When the world opens up fully to international travel, there is no denying that millions of people will be making the most of it and booking all those holidays they have missed out on in recent years.

Before you pay that deposit, what do you need to know about visiting America?   Are there ways to save money in the US or avoid hidden charges?

Pay attention to the paperwork

An essential part of visiting the United States is ensuring you have the correct visa or travel authorisation. One of the most common requirements for travellers is the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA). This electronic visa is necessary for citizens of countries under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) and allows you to enter the US for tourism, business, or transit for up to 90 days without needing a traditional visa. Make sure to apply for your ESTA in advance, as it will provide peace of mind and ensure a smooth entry into the country upon arrival.

Plan your visit

America is not only huge, but it is undeniably a massive tourist destination. If you are going to the more tourist-centric destinations, you will want to plan your trip carefully ahead of time. Things to consider include visiting during peak season, American school term times, weather systems, and logistics to visit more than one place. Remember, some states are so vast it can take more than a full day to cover. The most minimal journey from one side of Florida to another is around 8 hours; this isn't accounting for heavy traffic either.  Check whether you can drive with a UK licence in the US.

Americans are friendly

This is something many Brits struggle with, but one of the best things about American hospitality is the friendliness of the people. Use this in your favour to find out handy tips for during your trip. The best places to eat, visit, and times of the day to head to busier parts of the local area can all be gleaned by striking up conversations with locals.

Avoid charges

Using your card in America can be a bit of a minefield, and different banks and credit cards have different rules and charges in place for international usage. For example, check you are familiar with fees for withdrawing money in the States as you can be hit with some hefty charges.

Tax

Most things for sale in the US are priced, excluding the tax. This means the price you pay at the till isn't the price displayed on the shelves, and this can be tricky to work out if you aren't familiar.  If you are aware of this, it can save a lot of confusion when you pay and make things easier for everyone.

You need travel insurance

Most people know that the American healthcare system doesn't work like the NHS. Medical care isn't free at the point of use like in the UK, so making sure you have appropriate travel insurance can avoid landing you with a huge bill for medical treatment should you need it.

Tipping

Tipping is a big culture in the US, and many servers rely on their tips to support their wages. Tipping is expected in all restaurants and for delivery services for fast food and restaurants. You are expected to leave at least 10% depending on your party size and spend. So factor this into your budget before you go. Much like the tax on store-bought goods increases your spending, so does tipping too.

Final words

As you prepare for your trip to the USA, keeping these essential tips in mind will help ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. From understanding the visa requirements to navigating the cultural differences, being well-informed will save you both time and money. Whether it's planning your itinerary or getting to grips with the local customs, a bit of preparation goes a long way. With the right approach, you can focus on making the most of your adventure in the United States and creating memories that will last a lifetime. Safe travels!