10 Practical Tips for Traveling in the United States
Practical Tips
2026-10-02
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From EVUS registration to tipping, travel insurance to tax refunds—these details can make or break your trip to the U.S.
- Check Your EVUS Status Before Departure: Even with a 10-year visa, you must enroll or re-enroll in the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (EVUS) before each visit, and the enrollment is valid for two years.
- Travel Insurance Is a Must: Medical costs in the U.S. are among the highest in the world—an emergency room visit can easily cost thousands of dollars. Be sure to purchase comprehensive travel insurance that includes medical coverage and emergency assistance.
- Understand the Tipping Culture: Standard tipping is 15%–20% in restaurants, $1–$2 per bag for porters, and 10%–15% for taxi drivers. Carry small bills to cover these.
- Leave Room in Your Budget: Listed prices usually don’t include sales tax, and hotels often add taxes and resort fees. Your actual spending may be 10%–20% higher than the displayed prices.
- Plan by Region: The U.S. is roughly the size of all of Europe. Trying to cover too much will wear you out. Focus on 1–2 regions per trip.
- Carry ID at All Times: Bars, casinos, and liquor stores all check IDs. Carry your passport or a copy with you at all times.
- Use Cards for Payments: Visa and Mastercard are accepted almost everywhere, and Apple Pay is also widely used. You’ll rarely need much cash.
- Reserve in Advance: Attractions like the Statue of Liberty, popular restaurants, and even vehicle entry to national parks often require advance reservations—especially during peak seasons. Book weeks ahead when necessary.
- Watch Out for Basic Economy Airline Restrictions: Most domestic U.S. flights don’t include seat selection or checked baggage in the base fare. Check the fine print when booking Basic Economy tickets.
- Prepare for Extreme Weather: Summers in the Southwest can exceed 40°C (104°F), while winters in the Northeast bring heavy snow. Pack appropriate clothing and stay updated on weather alerts.
- Arrive Early at Airports: Security lines for domestic flights in the U.S. can be slow. Arrive at least 2 hours before departure, and even earlier during busy periods.
- Know the Rules for Driving with a Foreign License: Most U.S. states accept a valid driver’s license from your home country along with a translation, but check the insurance exemption clauses before picking up your rental car.
- Save Emergency Numbers: Dial 911 for police, fire, or medical emergencies nationwide. Also save your country’s embassy or consulate contact information in case you need consular assistance.
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