With international travel expected to soar in 2022, the US is hoping for an influx of holiday-goers in the next year. Are you thinking of planning a visit to the US? Follow our guide to prepare you for a memorable vacation.
What Do I Need to Visit the US?
Entry to the US is renowned for being restricted. However, as an international visitor, you need to make sure you have a valid passport and USA visa. If you’re going to be in the country for 90 days or less, you will only need to apply for an ESTA. You are required to fill out a short, simple form.
This lets you travel for tourism or business throughout the states for a maximum of three months. If you plan to stay longer, you will need to apply for a visa. It’s best to apply for your ESTA or visa as early as possible so that you have time to resolve any issues should they arise.
You will also need to organize travel insurance. US travel health insurance is now mandatory, no matter how long or short your visit. As US health care prices are famously very high, you won’t regret buying travel insurance should something happen.
Finally, you should check international travel regulations before you travel. Restrictions are changing all the time in the current climate, so check with the CDC whether you need to test or isolate to enter the country.
What Should I Pack?
Packing for any holiday can be stressful. What do you bring? The cost of putting luggage in the hold can add unwanted expenses to your trip. But can you fit everything into your carry-on luggage?
What you choose to pack depends entirely on what kind of holiday you’re going on. For example, a beachside vacation has very different demands from a backpacking trip.
Wherever you choose to go and however you spend your time, here are some essential vacation basics to pack:
- US dollars
We recommend changing your currency at a bank before you travel. Exchange rates at airports can be overly expensive. Plus, ensure you get cash in smaller denominations. Tipping is essential in the US, so make sure you have change to tip as soon as you land.
- Universal travel adaptor
You don’t want to arrive at your hotel, phone battery on 10%, only to find out that your charger doesn’t fit the plug sockets. Make sure that you bring a universal travel adaptor (you can find one easily online or in many shops) that will come in handy on all your future travels. While you’re at it, bringing a portable charger might also be a good idea.
- Extra copies of your documents
Accidents can happen; documents can be mislaid. Make sure to pack a few copies of your passport, insurance, and ESTA just in case.
- Clothing
Of course, clothing is perhaps the first thing you think of to pack. For a trip to America, we recommend bringing shorts and jeans (check the weather), a coat or light jacket, a swimming costume, and pyjamas. If you’re going in the summer, it’s sensible to bring a sun hat and sunscreen to keep yourself protected.
Where Should I Visit?
There are many phenomenal places to visit across the US; your holiday is guaranteed to be fun wherever your destination is.
Here are our recommendations of the best places to travel to in the US in 2022.
- Walt Disney Resort
The Orlando Walt Disney World Resort is set to celebrate its 50th anniversary in 2022. Festive celebrations will continue for 18 months into 2023, including new character costumes, light shows, and fireworks.
- Las Vegas
Las Vegas is always worth a visit. With the dazzling lights, vibrant casinos, and endless entertainment, you’ll never find a shortage of activities in Vegas. Adele, Katy Perry, Bruno Mars, and Carrie Underwood have announced residencies for 2022. There’s never a better time to plan a Vegas trip.
- New Orleans
With restrictions placing festivals on hold for over a year, the New Orleans music scene is set to bounce back in 2022. Jazz Fest, Essence Fest, Tales of the Cocktail, and Mardi Gras are all planned to run this year.
- New York
One of the hardest-hit states in the coronavirus pandemic, New York is opening up and welcoming tourists eagerly. Restaurants, bars, shops, and Broadway have all recently reopened. In the summer of 2022, the first museum dedicated to Broadway theatre is set to open.
- Yellowstone National Park
The US’ first national park, Yellowstone, will turn 150 in 2022. Celebrate this milestone by visiting the dramatic park and taking in its wondrous landscape. To commemorate, the park officials have stated that they want to work more closely with the Native Americans and locals who have inhabited the park for thousands of years.
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