Traveling to the United States for the first time can be an exciting experience filled with new cultures, diverse landscapes, modern cities, and endless things to explore. However, the U.S. is large and different from many other countries in terms of transportation, travel rules, tipping etiquette, and airport procedures. With the right preparation, your trip will be smooth, enjoyable, and stress-free. This guide provides practical advice for first-time travelers visiting the U.S., covering flights, hotels, car rentals, and essential cultural tips.
- Plan Your Airport Experience Ahead of Time
U.S. airports—especially those in major cities like New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Miami, and San Francisco—can be busy and overwhelming. To avoid delays and confusion:
What you should do:
Arrive 3 hours early for international flights
Prepare your travel documents (passport, ESTA/visa, hotel info)
Use TSA-approved locks for luggage
Be ready to remove electronics and liquids at security
Download airline apps to track boarding gates
Understanding airport procedures helps you move efficiently and reduces stress on arrival.
- Choose Your Transportation Wisely
The U.S. is a large country, and transportation varies significantly by city. Some cities rely heavily on cars, while others have excellent public transportation.
Cities with good public transit:
New York City
Washington, D.C.
Boston
Chicago
San Francisco
Cities where renting a car is better:
Los Angeles
Miami
Orlando
Las Vegas
Houston
Phoenix
If your trip includes national parks or multiple cities, a rental car is often the most convenient option. Always compare prices across major rental companies before booking.
- Understand Hotel Policies and Fees
Hotels in the U.S. often include extra charges that first-time travelers may overlook. For example:
Resort fees (common in Las Vegas, Miami, Hawaii)
Parking fees (especially in big cities)
Security deposits
Early check-in / late check-out fees
Before booking, review:
Total cost including taxes and fees
Cancellation policy
Inclusions (Wi-Fi, breakfast, parking)
Staying slightly outside city centers can also reduce hotel costs while still giving you access to transportation.
- Expect Tipping in Many Situations
Tipping is standard practice in the United States. If you come from a country where tipping is not common, this may feel unusual at first.
General tipping guidelines:
Restaurants: 15–20% of your bill
Taxi/rideshare drivers: 10–15%
Hotel housekeeping: $2–5 per night
Bellhop/luggage: $1–2 per bag
Tour guides: $5–10 per person (depending on tour length)
Tipping is part of the service culture and is considered normal and expected.
- Stay Connected with Mobile Data Options
Having mobile data in the U.S. is important for navigation, rideshare apps, and communication.
Best options for travelers:
Buy a prepaid SIM card (AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon)
Use an eSIM with international travel plans
Rent a Wi-Fi hotspot
Check if your home carrier offers an international plan
Having reliable mobile data makes traveling much easier, especially in large cities.
- Learn Basic Road Rules if You Plan to Drive
The U.S. driving experience differs from many other countries.
Important rules for visitors:
Drive on the right side of the road
Most rental cars are automatic
Turning right at a red light is usually allowed (unless a sign says otherwise)
Pedestrians often have the right of way
Speed limits change frequently—always check signs
If you plan to explore national parks or rural areas, having a rental car provides freedom and flexibility.
- Prepare for Long Travel Distances
The U.S. is much larger than many travelers expect. For example:
New York to Los Angeles: over 5 hours by flight
Driving between states can take several hours
Flying is often the quickest way to travel long distances
When planning your itinerary, avoid packing too many cities into one trip. Focus on 1–3 major destinations for a comfortable experience.
- Try Local Foods and Regional Specialties
The U.S. is known for its diverse food culture. Each region has specialties worth trying:
New York: Pizza, bagels, cheesecake
Texas: Barbecue and Tex-Mex
California: Fresh seafood and fusion cuisine
Louisiana: Cajun and Creole dishes
Chicago: Deep-dish pizza
Trying local foods is one of the most enjoyable parts of traveling in the U.S.
- Stay Aware of Additional Travel Costs
Beyond flights and hotels, the U.S. has some extra costs travelers should be aware of:
State and city taxes
Toll roads
Attraction entrance fees
Parking charges
National park passes
Planning ahead helps you avoid surprise expenses.
- Keep Safety and Health in Mind
While most tourist areas are safe, it’s always best to stay alert.
Travel tips:
Avoid carrying large amounts of cash
Keep valuables inside your hotel safe
Stick to well-lit areas at night
Have travel insurance for medical coverage
Follow local guidelines for weather and natural conditions
Whether you’re in a major city or on a road trip, staying aware keeps your journey safe and enjoyable.