What Australians Should Know Before Travelling To The US

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Picture this: you are planning the trip of a lifetime, your dream US holiday. You have narrowed down the best places to buy US dollars, selected your dream outfits, and confirmed your flight details. But something is missing. You start to worry that there are vital pieces of information you don’t have before your trip to the US.

Fear not! That is where we come in to help. Our guide today walks you through everything you should know before travelling to the US.

What Should I Know Before Travelling To The US From Australia?

There are a few things you should know before travelling to the US, including its climate and easy transportation. We have outlined the main points you should know before boarding your flight to make your holiday the best one yet!

Entry Requirements

The US has very strict border control, so check if you meet the requirements before travelling. You don’t need a visa if you are visiting the US for less than 90 days, but you must complete an Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA) application before your visit. This is done online and is very straightforward, with advice from the Australian government’s website.

Check Your Passport

Your passport needs to be valid, with at least six months left from when you plan to leave the country. You will need to renew your passport before travelling if it expires in less than six months after your return date.

You can renew your passport online or phone to request a paper form to renew. We recommend allowing plenty of time for the new passport to arrive before your trip.

Check The Climate

The US has a diverse climate, with tropical conditions in Hawaii and Florida and cold climates in the Rocky Mountains and northern states. The climate also varies depending on the season, with some states experiencing tornadoes and extreme weather. Before planning your visit and the states or cities you want to see, check the climate for the time of year you want to visit.

This will help you determine when it is safe to visit and what clothing you need to bring. Most buildings will have air conditioning to keep you cool during the summer, but the humidity can leave you with sweaty or frizzy hair.

Tipping Culture

Tipping culture can be a big shock for visitors to America. Many hospitality workers receive a low hourly wage and rely on their tips for a liveable income. Paying between 15 and 20% of your bill as a tip at the end of any meal or when purchasing drinks at bars is standard. It is not uncommon to leave a higher amount for excellent service, especially if you are dining as a large group.

While many tourists disagree with the tipping culture, it is part of the dining experience in the US and should be respected. In some cases, a tip of 10% is acceptable, but this is considered the bare minimum.

Check Transportation Options

Transportation varies widely across the country, with some cities being walkable and others, like Los Angeles, having their attractions dispersed. Public transport can be used, with buses and trains running across the country, but it can be beneficial to hire a car. You will find plenty of parking in most cities and states so that you can easily drive.

When hiring a car, check that you have a valid licence and meet the age requirements; often, this is twenty-five years old. In cities like New York, the subway is easy to use and takes you around for a low price. Taxis are also an option but do not pay more than you should.

Take Out Travel Insurance

It is no secret that healthcare is expensive in the US, so take out travel insurance before your trip. We recommend booking it at the time of your trip so you are covered from the get-go. While we don’t want to think about getting sick on holiday, it is best to have your insurance, just in case. You can use comparison sites to find the cheapest price, with many offering coverage for a few dollars a day.

Final Thoughts

Travelling to the US can seem daunting—after all, it takes hours on a plane. But by doing your research beforehand and ensuring you have all your documentation in place, you can enjoy a smooth and hassle-free holiday. Don’t forget to exchange your currency in advance and have a backup card for emergencies.

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