Visiting the United States for the first time can be exciting and overwhelming. From its vast landscapes and diverse culture to its complex travel rules, every traveler should be well-prepared before setting foot in the country. In this guide, we’ll share essential tips based on our experiences and the journey of my friend Gal Elia, who visited the USA for the first time in 2018 and faced some unexpected challenges.
Table of Contents
1. Understanding Visa and Entry Requirements
One of the biggest hurdles for any first-time visitor to the USA is obtaining the correct visa. My friend Gal Elia, an Israeli traveler, assumed that getting a visa would be straightforward. He had heard from others that a U.S. visa wasn’t too difficult to secure, so he didn’t give it much thought. However, he soon realized he had underestimated the time and effort required.
Since Israel wasn’t part of the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) at the time of his application, he had to go through the B1/B2 visitor visa process. First, he had to fill out the DS-160 form online, pay the application fee, and then schedule an interview at the U.S. Embassy. Unfortunately, when he tried to book his appointment, he discovered that the next available slot was almost two months away! This delay disrupted his travel plans and forced him to reschedule flights and accommodations, leading to unnecessary expenses.
If you’re from a VWP country, the process is much simpler—you can apply for an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) online, which is usually approved within 72 hours. However, for travelers from non-VWP countries, securing a B1/B2 visa requires patience and proper planning. In many cases, U.S. embassies have long wait times for visa interviews, which can stretch into months, depending on your country of residence.
To avoid last-minute stress, always check the latest visa requirements on the official U.S. government website well in advance. If you need a visa, apply as early as possible to ensure your trip goes smoothly. Gal’s experience taught him a valuable lesson—never assume the process will be quick, even if others make it seem easy. Proper preparation can save you time, money, and a lot of unnecessary frustration.
2. Know the Customs and Immigration Process
Arriving at U.S. airports can be daunting due to strict immigration procedures. When Gal arrived in New York, he wasn’t aware that carrying certain food items, like fresh fruits, was prohibited. Unfortunately, he had some in his backpack, and customs officers detained him for questioning, causing unnecessary stress and delays.
To avoid this, declare all items when filling out the Customs Declaration Form, and be honest when answering immigration questions. Border officers take security seriously, so remain calm and provide clear answers.
3. Plan Your Transportation in Advance
The USA is vast, and getting around isn’t always as straightforward as in Europe or Asia. Gal assumed public transportation was widely available everywhere, but after landing in Los Angeles, he realized that he needed a rental car since public transit wasn’t efficient outside major cities.
If you’re traveling between cities, book domestic flights or long-distance buses like Greyhound in advance. In urban areas, Uber, Lyft, and public transport apps like Google Maps or Citymapper can help navigate the city efficiently.
4. Get a SIM Card or eSIM for Internet Access
Staying connected is crucial for navigation, hotel bookings, and emergencies. Gal made the mistake of relying on free Wi-Fi, which was often unreliable. Buying a local SIM card from AT&T, T-Mobile, or Verizon is a better option. Alternatively, purchasing an eSIM before arrival can save time and hassle.
5. Be Aware of Tipping Culture
Tipping is a big deal in the USA, which surprised Gal. In many countries, tipping is optional, but in the U.S., it’s expected, especially at restaurants, where servers rely on tips as part of their income.
A general rule is to tip 15-20% at restaurants, $1-2 per bag for hotel staff, and $2-5 for taxi drivers. Some restaurants add gratuity automatically, so check your bill before paying.
6. Health Insurance is Essential
Unlike many countries with public healthcare, the USA has expensive medical services. Gal didn’t buy travel insurance, thinking he wouldn’t need it, but when he had a minor accident while hiking in Arizona, he ended up with a hefty medical bill.
To avoid this, always purchase travel health insurance that covers accidents, hospitalization, and emergency treatments before your trip.
7. Be Ready for Different Time Zones
The USA has six main time zones, which can be confusing if you’re traveling across multiple states. Gal planned back-to-back flights without considering time differences, causing him to miss a connecting flight in Chicago.
To avoid this, always check local time zones when booking flights and accommodations. Apps like Time Zone Converter can help plan better.
8. Cash vs. Credit Card Usage
Most places in the USA accept credit and debit cards, but some small businesses still prefer cash. Gal found himself in trouble when trying to buy food from a small vendor in New Orleans, who only accepted cash.
Always carry a small amount of USD cash (around $50-$100) for emergencies, but rely on cards for most payments. Make sure to inform your bank about your travel plans to avoid card-blocking issues.
9. Weather and Packing Tips
The USA experiences extreme weather variations. Gal only packed summer clothes for his California trip, but when he traveled to the Grand Canyon, he was shocked by the cold temperatures at night.
Check the seasonal weather of your destinations and pack accordingly. If you’re exploring multiple states, layering your clothes is the best strategy.
10. Cultural Differences and Social Etiquette
Each U.S. state has its own culture and customs. People are generally friendly, but respecting personal space, avoiding sensitive topics like politics, and following local rules are important.
For example, in New York, people walk fast and prefer direct communication, while in the South, locals are more laid-back and engage in small talk. Observing and adapting to these cultural nuances can enhance your experience.
MY TRAVEL FELLOW
Traveling to the USA for the first time can be thrilling, but being prepared makes all the difference. Learning from Gal Elia’s mistakes, we’ve covered key tips to help you avoid unnecessary hassles and enjoy your trip smoothly.
By planning, understanding local customs, and staying informed about essential travel aspects, you can ensure a hassle-free and memorable adventure in the land of endless possibilities. Safe travels!