What Do I Need to Know When Visiting the USA?

Do Travelers Need a Visa to Visit the USA?

Most travelers need either a U.S. visa or authorization through the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). Citizens of VWP countries will need to apply for the Electronic System for Travel Authorization before they depart their country. In addition ESTA approval does not necessarily guarantee entry, but the ESTA approval is required to board a flight. If you live in a non Visa Waiver Program country, you will need to apply for a visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate well in advance of your travel to the USA.

What Documents Are Required for Entry?

Anyone entering the USA must have a valid passport, and valid for the duration of their stay. There is also a possibility that you may be asked to show proof of onward travel, your return tickets, your accommodation details, and more than likely show evidence of sufficient funds. The U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers at arrival will make the final decision on your entry eligibility.

What Should Travelers Know About U.S. Customs and Security?

The United States, like most countries, has strict customs and security rules. You will have to declare items such as food, alcohol, large amounts of cash, or commercial goods that you are bringing into the country. By not declaring prohibited items, even unintentionally, can lead to you being fined, delayed or even refused entry. Security screening at U.S. airports is thorough, so arriving early and following TSA guidelines is strongly recommended.

How Does Healthcare and Insurance Work in the USA?

You will need health insurance to receive any Healthcare in the U.S. This can be very expensive, of course and will depend on types of treatment you may require. Travelers should purchase travel medical insurance that includes emergency care and hospital coverage. Even minor medical visits can be costly without insurance.

What Are Important Travel Tips for Getting Around?

Researching how you will get around can save you time and money. If you are only traveling from the airport to a hotel or some other form of accommodations then it may not be a problem. Most cities in the USA offer public transit, in the form of buses or a subway system. If you are traveling to another state, or have a longer drive from your point of arrival, then you would require renting a vehicle. A valid driver’s license is typically accepted, though some states may require an International Driving Permit (IDP). Ride-sharing apps and domestic flights are widely used for longer distances.

What Cultural and Practical Differences Should Travelers Expect?

Tipping is customary, but not mandatory. Some services add tips to your bill such as some in restaurants. Many services such as taxis, and hotel employees for example would expect a tip. Tips usually rang from 15–25%. Sales tax is often not included in listed prices and is added at checkout. Laws and regulations can vary by state, so travelers should be aware of local rules regarding alcohol, smoking, and public behavior.

Final Things Travelers Should Know

Travelers to the USA should plan ahead, be sure to know entry requirements, and find out as much as you can about local laws and customs. With the right preparation, visiting the United States can be safe, enjoyable, and rewarding.

What Are The Most Popular Tours In The USA?

There are thousands of guided and self guided tours you can enjoy alone or in groups. These tours will give you the experiences you expect when visiting the USA. The list below may not include every state, but clicking on any link will get you tour information for any state, or even country. Browse the most popular tours below.

City Sightseeing Tours

Big U.S. cities attract millions of visitors each year, and guided city tours are among the most booked experiences.

• New York City: Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island, hop-on hop-off bus tours, Central Park bike tours
• Las Vegas: Strip night tours, helicopter tours, behind-the-scenes casino tours
• San Francisco: Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island tours
• Chicago: Architecture river cruises
• Washington D.C.: Monument and memorial tours, Smithsonian highlights

National Park Tours

The U.S. National Parks are a huge draw for international and domestic travelers.

• Grand Canyon (Arizona): Bus tours, helicopter tours, Skywalk experiences
• Yellowstone (Wyoming): Wildlife and geothermal tours
• Yosemite (California): Day trips from San Francisco
• Zion & Bryce Canyon (Utah): Hiking and scenic tours
• Great Smoky Mountains (Tennessee/North Carolina): Nature and scenic drives

Adventure & Outdoor Tours

For travelers seeking excitement and nature-based experiences:

• Hawaii: Volcano tours, snorkeling, whale watching
• Alaska: Glacier cruises, wildlife tours, Northern Lights excursions
• Colorado: Whitewater rafting, hiking, off-road jeep tours
• Florida Everglades: Airboat and wildlife tours

Food, Wine & Cultural Tours

Food-focused experiences are increasingly popular.

• New Orleans: Creole food tours, jazz history tours
• Napa Valley: Wine tasting and vineyard tours
• New York City: Walking food tours and neighborhood tastings
• Texas: BBQ and culinary tours

Theme Park & Entertainment Tours

Especially popular with families:

• Orlando, Florida: Disney World and Universal Studios packages
• Los Angeles: Hollywood studio tours
• California: Disneyland resort experiences

Check Out More Tours By State