Now that traveling has become a little easier, it is time to start heading off on your own adventures and exploring all that America has to offer. Whether you have been to the States before or not, it is always a good idea to refresh what you know. When you are more prepared for your travels and trips to the States, you can then ensure that you have as much fun and enjoyment as possible. So, what should you be considering when traveling and planning your next trip?
1. Where You Should Go and Why
Firstly, where would you like to go and why? Is there somewhere you have wanted to go for a while, but perhaps you have lacked the time, or the funds? Would you live to go to Hollywood/California to see where all of the celebrities live? Or would you like to go on a trip to Las Vegas? Or do you find that Disney is calling you and your family? Establishing where to go and why is important because it will give your journey purpose and direction, and this is what you need.
When you know where you are going, you can then start to make additional preparations. Also, at this point, you need to think about how long you want to travel. The duration of your travel will be dependent on where you go, so try and cover these two areas together to get a definitive answer.
2. A Valid and In-date Passport
“A valid passport gives you the freedom to move and travel”
It sounds simple and straightforward enough but is your passport valid and in-date for travel, and are those in your group or party also in date and valid. Different states and airports may require different validities on passports, so it is always worth checking what these requirements are (before you book anything, and of course, before you travel). Ideally, you should have at least 6 months of validity on your passport before you travel, as this will cover you should you wish to stay longer, or should you wish to move to another state or area of America?
If your passport has less than 6 months of validity left, you need to get it renewed as soon as possible. This can take up to 3 months to happen (depending on your country of residency) so don’t leave passport renewal until the last minute.
Also read: 5 Facts To Have An Ideal Flight You Probably Didn’t Know About
3. Checking Out Visas and Applications
When you are traveling to the states you need to make sure that you have all visas in place for when you are at the arrival gates. Visas will need to be in date, and they will need to correspond to your purpose for your visit. If there are any issues with your visit, you may be refused entry into the states, and this would end up costing you more (in return flights and return travel). To ensure that you get the right visa for your needs, and for the purpose of your trip, you may need to seek assistance from the American embassy or Consulate.
Relying on information that has been shared on social media, or that has been passed down from other people is not always the best thing to do, so avoid this where you can, and only use reliable and informed sources.
4. Organizing Your Flights
“Compare prices of flights from numerous airlines”
Depending on where you are flying from, you can find that flights can be over 10 hours long, they can also vary hugely in price. Getting the best deals and prices on flights is important, and when you can snag affordable flights, you can then free up money to use on other areas of your travel or vacation. To get the best deals and prices on flights, you need to be flexible. Look at flying on unsociable night flights, and also look at making layovers (if you can, to keep the price low).
Also, take advantage of flight comparison sites such as Skyscanner. These comparison websites can save you a great deal of time and money, so always check them out before booking your flight with another provider.
5. Finding Suitable Accommodation
Westgate Vacation Villas and Town Center
“Affordable and well-located rooms that are perfect for exploring Orlando and Florida”
Once you have organized your visas, and your flights, you then have to start looking at where you will stay. There are lots of options when it comes to accommodation, but not all of them will be suitable for you, and for your journey. For example, if you are thinking of heading to Orlando, and you are looking at renting a house or villa, you may not be able to do so for only a short period. However, one type of suitable accommodation that is fit for this purpose is a reliable hotel or resort.
Good hotels and resorts in Orlando are affordable, and from $99 and up you can get a good night’s sleep in quality and comfort in a room that is well located for exploring Orlando, and of course the Disney theme parks. When you are looking for suitable accommodation, you will often find it better to book in advance. When you do this, you can often save yourself extra time and money.
6. Sorting Out Cash and Financials for Traveling
To get your travels to America off to the best start, you need to ensure that you have the necessary funding in place. If you do not have enough cash to travel with, you will find that you will have to make compromises along the way. These compromises may affect the enjoyment you get from your vacation. Making sure that you have access to cash and credit cards for your travels will relieve a lot of stress and hassle.
Also, it is advisable to carry with you copies of passports and any other travel documents (including visas). If the worst were to happen and you were to lose the originals, at least you would have some proof of your identity and your travels.
7. Getting About and Transport
As America is such a large country, you need to think about how you will get about it – especially if you are planning on visiting more than one state. Are you going to look at hiring a car or are you going to look at using public transport, such as a greyhound bus? How comfortable are you with traveling with others – would you look at a safe and authorized car share? Perhaps you prefer to have your own space?
Transport costs can add a significant amount to your budget, so it is always wise to try and plan your movements in advance, to make sure that they are affordable.
8. Maps, Planning, Routes
If you are planning to visit several places or destinations during your travels, you may then find it beneficial to have a map, together with routes labelled. When you are traveling and on the go, it can be difficult to always get your bearings. However, when you have a physical map to refer to, you should find the process easier. Having a physical map to follow (of the area or state you are in) will also give you clarity and reassurance that you are on the right route.
Of course, you don’t have to use a physical map if you don’t want to. You could use a virtual map, or GPS on your phone, just ensure that you have enough battery (and your phone charger) with you at all times, so that you don’t get stuck.
9. Having Suitable Insurance
When you leave your home, you want to make sure that you are fully covered (in terms of healthcare, and in terms of insurance). If you do not have suitable or adequate coverage, you could face large medical bills, or bills for accidents if you were to hire a car and end up in an accident. Not having suitable insurance adds extra stress and pressure to your trip. Eliminating this pressure and worry is essential, especially if you are looking at visiting multiple places and states. Try and arrange insurance before you leave for your travels, this way, you will be able to carry the documentation with you at all times.
You may want to consider traveling with someone else – especially if you are planning a road trip. Traveling with another person can add an extra element of safety to your trip, but it can also make traveling more affordable too, as everything will be split fairly down the middle. If you choose to travel on your own, you need to remember to take safety precautions when you travel. Always make sure you leave contact details and stay in regular contact with others.
If you plan to drive abroad, make sure to have your documents ready such as your passport, driver’s license and an international driver’s permit (IDP). Some countries require the permit for foreign travelers which can also be used as an additional identification document. You can secure an IDP online or through your local Post Office.
Also read: Best Affordable Family Vacations to Take in The USA
