Travel tips to explore the USA like a pro!

The United States of America is a big and beautiful country. You can see and do a lot in this wonderful nation. However, there are several rules and guidelines that you must remember when you plan a US trip. Take a look at this article to know more about how to become a smart traveller visiting the USA and enjoy your trip in a smooth and hassle-free manner.

1. Get your passport and visa

Start off by getting your passport and visa done in time. These are time-consuming processes so don't leave them for the last minute. If you need a new passport or need to renew your existing one, get the job done. Once that is done, apply for a US tourist visa and complete the formalities in advance.

2. Get adequate travel insurance

It is compulsory for you to get travel insurance when you go to the USA, but do not make the mistake of getting the bare minimum amount. Get adequate insurance so that if there is any emergency, you will be well-equipped to handle it, without having to spend lakhs of rupees from your own pocket.

3. Pack smartly

The weather in the USA is quite different from that in India. It can get very windy and cold, so pack accordingly. Do some research about the weather at the time you are planning to travel and pack according to that. Do not pack too much, as you may have to pay for excess baggage.

4. Make all the reservations in advance

From your international flight booking to hotel reservations to the flights and trains within America, make sure you reserve and book everything in advance. Do not expect to get reservations at the last minute as that may not happen and you will face unnecessary roadblocks while on your US vacation.

5. Research airport transfers

You may have booked all the hotels, trains, flights, etc but have you made arrangements for airport transfers? It is very important to arrange for airport pickups in advance. You can either request a family member or a friend living there to pick you up or arrange for a can. There are many ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft that function very smoothly at all major US airports. You can also consider taking a yellow can. Whatever you do, make sure you don't feel lost and confused after you exit the airport.

6. Understand the tipping system

Tipping is huge in America. Since the minimum wages are low, the employees depend heavily on tips. From the car driver at the airport to the concierge at the hotel to the waitress at the restaurant, everyone will expect to get tipped. Usually, one or two dollars is the standard tipping rate, so keep some dollar bills handy.

7. Understand the local transportation system

You will have to depend on the local transp[ort system when you visit the USA as a tourist. You will need to take the subway, hail cabs, use the bus, take tram rides, etc. Do adequate research about the [public transport option, timings, fares, etc and then use them effectively. You can also get information about the routes from locals or from the reception of your hotel.

8. Make a thorough plan

The USA is a very vast and diverse country. You have a lot to see and do here. This is precisely why you need to make a thorough plan. Decide what you want to see, which cities you want to visit, how many days you want to spend at each destination, etc. When you have a roadmap in front of you, it becomes easier for you to have a smooth and uneventful vacation.

9. Keep a budget

Finally, and most importantly, stay within your budget. You may be tempted to spend more, but sticking to your pre-decided budget will be a great idea. Based on your budget, choose the types of hotels you want, decide upon the duration of your stay, and so on.