Things To Consider When You’re Visiting The USA*

If you’re planning a trip to America anytime soon (you lucky thing) you might be a little overwhelmed by the vast array of options there are for where to visit and what to see once you’ve arrived. Whether you’re planning a tour up the West Coast, down the East Coast, or are staying in one particular state and area; you’ll need to decide what you’ll be getting up to before you jet off on your holiday. The following are some things to consider once you’ve booked your flights and are in the process of organising your trip.

Your Packing
Each of the 50 states in the USA is practically their own country, all with their own culture and climate. Even the different areas within each state will require completely opposing clothes and essential. If you’re planning to tour around California, for example, you’ll need beachwear, active and outdoor clothing, and something special for nights out (hello L.A!), as it’ll be a magical mix of healthy living and party culture. Therefore, it’s a good idea to have a good sense of where you’ll be visiting, so you can pack your case accordingly.

Moving over to the East Coast, and New York, in the autumn and winter months, you’ll have an entirely different climate to think about, and there will not be a bikini in sight. Autumn, or Fall, as you’ll be calling it soon enough, is a breathtaking time to visit the East Coast States; you’ll be able to see the beautiful change in colour of the leaves in places like Boston and New England. But, don’t forget your scarf, woolly hat, and cold-weather fashion. NYC is the perfect place to visit on the run up to Christmas; wear your cosy knits, huge coat, and visit the Rockefeller Centre for a spot of ice skating. Plan ahead, and you’ll be able to pack wisely.

Your Paperwork
Of course, you’ll need to have your passport at the ready and well within its expiry date; you’ll be gutted if you’ve turned up to Heathrow Airport and been told that you’ll have to wait and apply for a new one. So, to avoid any tears; check the date before you’ve even booked your flights and make sure it’s enough to get you over there. Also, set the alarm on your phone to remind you to check that you have your passport on your person before you leave for the airport.

For security and eligibility to travel to and around the USA; you’ll need to check your ESTA history to ensure that you’re not a high-risk traveller, and will be able to visit The States safely and legally. This is another bit of admin you should do the second you’ve booked your ticket, or, ideally, before hand. Once you’ve sorted out all the paperwork and admin stuff, you can start thinking about the fun stuff, like where you’re going to eat and shop!

Your Planning
The planning will be the best part of your trip (apart from the holiday itself of course). So, pick exactly where you want to go and when. List restaurants, shops, shows, and sights to ensure that you can cram them all into your American getaway. You’ll never run out of potential things to do and see once you’re over there, but, if you don’t plan correctly, you might just run out of time! For a list of some of the best things to see in the USA, take a look here: http://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/destinations/north-america/united-states/articles/50-great-things-to-do-in-america/.