Things To Know Before Traveling To The USA

The United States of America is one of the most popular travel destinations on the planet. Be it a trip to watch nature’s glory at the Grand Canyon National Park or to marvel at the manmade wonders like the Empire State Building, people flock to this country from everywhere every year.

So, are you one of those travelers who have been planning to go on the US trip anytime soon? Surely, it’s a great plan! But, there are a couple of things, such as the ones discussed below, that you need to keep in mind before traveling to the US.

Understand The Passport And Visa Situation

Most of the travelers going to the USA will need to have a minimum six months’ validity on the passport. But, citizens from several countries just need to have a passport valid for their length of stay. You should check the government site of your country of residence to know the rules that apply to you.

There is a Visa Waiver Program (VWP) that lets nationals from specific countries enter the country for visitor or tourism purposes for ninety days without needing the visa. Even if you use VWP to enter the country, you will have to apply for the ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization). If you don’t qualify for VWP for any reason, you’ll have to apply for a visa in advance. You should talk to Goldstein Immigration Lawyers in Boston in case you face any issues with your visa situation.

Go For A TSA-Approved Lock For Your Luggage

When you’re traveling stateside, the TSA (Transportation Security Administration) enforces strict guidelines for security and safety. All the bags are thoroughly screened. In case any TSA inspectors want to physically inspect your bag, they can break the lock open. You’ll find a note inside the luggage letting you know that this has happened.

Thus, in order to make sure the lock stays intact in your luggage, get a TSA-approved lock that the inspectors can open with a master key, without needing to break your lock.

Know The Etiquette For Tipping In The Country

Tipping in the USA is something that gets most travelers rather confused. “Should I or shouldn’t I?” “How much is too much?” are the common questions asked by travelers. Now, in the restaurants, a tip of about fifteen percent is expected as an unwritten rule. Minimum wages being low in the country, the tips are a crucial part of the workers’ income. Taxi drivers should also be tipped similarly. A tip of one to three dollars per service is also standard for bartenders and housekeepers.

Quick Tips:

• 911 is the US emergency number
• The US still uses the Imperial system (weight in pounds, temperature in Fahrenheit, distance in miles, and height in feet).
• Bank cards and credit cards are preferred payment modes.
• Check the time zone of your destination beforehand.

So, that’s it! You are now armed with the important information you need to make the most of your US trip. Start preparing for your trip now!