Entry & Planning
Do I need a visa or ESTA to visit the United States?
Citizens of the 42 Visa Waiver Program (VWP) countries can visit the USA for up to 90 days by applying for an ESTA ($21 USD) on the official U.S. Customs and Border Protection website (esta.cbp.dhs.gov) at least 72 hours before flying. Canadian citizens generally enter visa-free without ESTA, while other nationalities require a B1/B2 tourist visa.
Is the $80 America the Beautiful National Parks Pass worth it?
Yes—if you visit 3 or more U.S. National Parks (such as Grand Canyon, Zion, Bryce Canyon, Yosemite, or Yellowstone, which each charge $35 per vehicle), the $80 annual pass already saves you $25+ and covers everyone in your private vehicle for 12 months. Check your exact route with our $80 National Parks Pass Calculator.
Trains & Transport
Can I travel the USA without renting a car?
On the Northeast Corridor (Boston, New York City, Philadelphia, Washington, D.C.), as well as in Chicago and San Francisco, you do not need a car at all—Amtrak Acela and Northeast Regional trains connect city centers in 1.5 to 3.5 hours, and local subways (NYC OMNY, DC Metro, CTA Ventra, SF Clipper) cover every neighborhood. For Western National Parks or the Pacific Coast Highway, renting a car is strongly recommended.
How does NYC's OMNY subway fare cap work?
Simply tap your contactless credit/debit card, Apple Pay, or Google Pay on the OMNY reader at any NYC Subway turnstile or local bus ($2.90 per ride). Once you hit 12 taps ($34.00) within a 7-day period using the exact same card or device, all remaining rides in that 7-day window are free. Compare city passes with our US City Transit Calculator.
Money & Cards
Why isn't sales tax included on US price tags, and how much should I tip?
Each U.S. state and city sets its own combined sales tax (from 0% in Oregon, Delaware, Montana, and New Hampshire up to 8.875% in NYC, 9.5% in LA, and 10.25% in Chicago), which is added at the register. At sit-down restaurants, tip 18% to 22% of the pre-tax bill unless a service charge is already included. Use our US State Sales Tax & Tipping Calculator ($).
Is the United States mostly cash or card?
Contactless cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Apple Pay, Google Pay) are accepted almost everywhere, and many stadiums, airlines, and urban cafés are 100% cashless. Still, carry $40–$80 in small $1 and $5 USD bills for hotel bellhops, housekeeping tips ($3–$5/night), and valet parking.
Practical & Safety
What power plugs and voltage does the USA use?
The United States uses Type A (two flat parallel pins) and Type B (two flat pins + round grounding pin) outlets at 120V / 60Hz. Dual-voltage phone and laptop chargers (100–240V) only need a plug adapter; check your appliances with our US 120V Plug & Voltage Checker.
What is the emergency phone number in the United States?
Across all 50 states and Washington, D.C., dial 911 (free from any landline, mobile phone, or payphone) for Police, Fire, or Ambulance emergencies.