North America
United States
The US is less a single destination than a set of them - regions differ enough that most trips focus on a few cities, with domestic flights covering the long hauls. The budgeting detail that surprises first-timers is tipping: it's woven into the service economy and effectively expected in many settings, on top of listed prices that also don't include sales tax. Entry runs through either the Visa Waiver Program with an approved ESTA or a full visa depending on nationality, so confirm which track is yours well in advance.
Last updated June 2026
Money & Payments
Currency
$
US Dollar
USD
Cash Tip
Credit and debit cards are universally accepted across the United States, and contactless payments are widespread.
Cash is utilized primarily for tips, small vendors, and vending machines.
ATMs are widely available and typically charge a transaction fee of $3 to $5 USD for foreign cards.
Card Rating
How widely cards and contactless payments are accepted
9 / 10.0
Credit cards, debit cards, and contactless payments are standard across commercial retailers and service networks. Mobile payment platforms like Venmo require a domestic bank account. Physical cash is used primarily for tipping, vending machines, and small independent vendors.
Daily Budget
Estimated daily costs per person
Budget
Meals & Transit
$40–$60
Food trucks and fast casual meals ($10–20/day), public transit.
≈ $40–$60
Meals & Transit
$40–$60
≈ $40–$60
Food trucks and fast casual meals ($10–20/day), public transit.
Accommodation
$40–$70
Hostel dorm beds, capsule hotels, or basic guesthouses with shared facilities.
≈ $40–$70
Accommodation
$40–$70
≈ $40–$70
Hostel dorm beds, capsule hotels, or basic guesthouses with shared facilities.
Mid-Range
Meals & Transit
$80–$120
Restaurant meals ($30–70 pp), Uber, national park fees.
≈ $80–$120
Entry & Documents
Visa Requirements
Check entry requirements for your passport
Select your passport to view visa requirements.
On the Ground
Power & Plugs
Voltage, frequency, and plug types
Type A120V60Hz
Type B120V60Hz
Bring a universal travel adapter to stay powered up regardless of plug type.
SIM Card Guide
Stay connected while traveling
Typical price range
$30–$65
≈ $30–$65 USD
Validity: 30-day tourist SIM
Practical Info
Apps & Getting Around
Essential apps and transport info
Transport
- UberForeigner-friendly
Works in all 50 states. Accepts foreign cards. Lyft is the main competitor. Both are essential in cities without good public transit (LA, Miami, Vegas, etc.). UberXL and Uber Black for larger groups or premium rides.
- MTA Subway (New York)Foreigner-friendly
Official NYC subway app for maps and trip planning. For paying: tap contactless bank card or OMNY card directly on turnstile - no MetroCard needed since 2023.
Other
- National Parks App (NPS)Foreigner-friendly
Official National Park Service app with offline maps, trail information, and permit booking for over 420 US national parks. Download park maps before entering wilderness areas. Free to use.
Navigation
- Google MapsForeigner-friendly
Works exceptionally well across the entire US - accurate transit directions for NYC, Chicago, and SF; turn-by-turn driving throughout. Offline maps recommended for national parks and rural areas.
Before You Go
Rules & Restrictions
Important laws and customs to be aware of
Always verify current laws before travel. Laws can change and penalties vary.
Legal
- Entry into the US requires either a visa or ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) for Visa Waiver Program countries. ESTA costs USD $21, must be applied for before departure at esta.cbp.dhs.gov, and is typically approved instantly. Without ESTA, airlines will deny boarding. The US also has secondary inspection - CBP officers can detain and question travellers.
- US Customs limits: You may bring in up to $800 worth of goods duty-free. Up to 1 litre of alcohol (if 21+), 200 cigarettes, and $100 in gifts. All food, soil, plant material, and meat products must be declared. Undeclared items are confiscated and may result in fines. Complete the Customs Declaration (CBP Form 6059B) on the plane.
- The drinking age is 21 in all 50 states - strictly enforced. Carrying ID (passport or driver's licence) is essential. Cannabis laws vary dramatically by state - legal recreationally in California, Colorado, New York, and others; still federally illegal and prohibited at all airports, federal land, and national parks regardless of state law.
- Tipping is a legally embedded economic system in the US - it is not optional at restaurants. Failure to tip is not illegal but is considered a serious social transgression. Service workers earn below minimum wage with the legal expectation that tips bring their total compensation up.
Cultural
- Conversations can include subjects such as career and personal background, while religious topics are typically considered private matters. Measurements utilize the imperial system.
- The US is enormous - New York to Los Angeles is the same distance as London to Baghdad. Flying is almost always the practical option between cities. Road trips on iconic routes (Route 66, Pacific Coast Highway, Blue Ridge Parkway) are a uniquely American experience requiring good planning and car hire.
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