Before you go
The US is vast — a road trip in one state can cover more ground than a whole country back home. A little planning goes a long way. Here are the practical things worth knowing before you fly, from timing your trip to getting around once you land.
The essentials
Cover these early and the rest of the trip tends to fall into place.
Weather swings hugely by region. Summer is peak (and priciest); spring and autumn bring milder days and thinner crowds in most of the country.
Cards work almost everywhere, but carry some cash for tips and small vendors. Tell your bank you're travelling so a US charge doesn't get flagged.
A local eSIM or prepaid SIM is usually cheaper than roaming. Download offline maps for national parks and remote stretches with no signal.
Cities like New York run on transit, but most of the country assumes a car. Book rentals early, and check whether you need an international driving permit.
Travel insurance matters here — US healthcare is expensive for visitors. Keep digital and paper copies of your bookings and key documents.
Distances are deceptive. Cluster your trip around one or two regions instead of trying to see both coasts in a week — you'll enjoy it far more.
Good to know
Tipping is expected. Around 15–20% in sit-down restaurants, and a couple of dollars for bartenders, taxis and hotel staff. It's part of workers' income, not a bonus.
Prices exclude tax. Sales tax is added at the till and varies by state and city, so the shelf price isn't quite what you'll pay.
Distances are big. "Nearby" can still mean a few hours' drive. Build in buffer time and don't underestimate cross-state trips.
ID rules are strict. You'll be asked for photo ID to buy alcohol (21+) regardless of age, and often to enter bars. Carry it.
Emergencies: dial 911. One number reaches police, fire and ambulance anywhere in the country.
Where to go
The US rewards depth over breadth. Pick a region, settle in, and let the highlights link naturally into a route.
Timing your trip
| Season | Best for | Watch out for |
|---|---|---|
| Spring (Mar–May) | Mild weather, blossoms, fewer crowds | Variable weather in the north |
| Summer (Jun–Aug) | Beaches, national parks, road trips | Peak prices, heat, busy attractions |
| Autumn (Sep–Nov) | Fall colours, comfortable temperatures | Hurricane season on the Gulf & SE coast |
| Winter (Dec–Feb) | Skiing, warm south, city breaks | Snow closures, short daylight up north |