Traveling to the USA

[Kiwi-7]

There's a good chance that I'll be traveling to the USA, from the UK, for the very first time this summer.

There are a few things, therefore, that I'd like to ask...

What's it like for a Briton during their first trip?

What's it like going through security, as I'd want to take my Canon 5D Mark II, but am not sure if they'd allow it on as hand luggage, even though it can fit in a hand luggage-sized bag?

Also, are there any additional tips, or information, that anyone can give me?

Any help would be greatly appreciated,

Kiwi-7

[237SJ]

Yes you can take your camera as hand luggage. Check out on the internet the liquid restrictions on flights. You have to complete an online ESTA which is free of charge and notifies the US authorities who you are. I presume you don`t have a visa being British so on the aircraft they will give you a customs and green I90 form. Be careful how you fill this out as they`re fussy about crossings out etc.

[pericat]

Where in the US are you going - kiwi?

[mikey0118]

You will be subjected to the same security as every other passenger at the airport, but all US-bound flights are now subject to additional checks at the gate, which can a very long time, especially when you consider that passengers must now be patted down and have their bags searched.

You will have no problem with the camera in your hand baggage. I always carry my Canon EOS 400D and three lenses in my hand baggage and have never had a problem. If the bag is searched, make the person searching it aware of the contents. Some of these people can be heavy-handed and have little or no respect for your belongings!

Incidentally, where in the USA are you supposed to be visiting? I am currently living and studying in Orlando, Florida, and I have been here for 14 months now. It is a lot of fun. The theme parks make for a good place to escape to when the studying gets tiresome and the weather is great right now, too! Unfortunately, my time here is almost at an end, so I will be back in the UK by the end of next week.

One thing to be aware of is just how long American immigration can take. After a long flight, you'll want to get to your hotel and relax, but you might be standing in line for a long time, so be prepared!

[joannie10]

I went to the US for the first time in September - we went to Las Vegas. There were queues at Immigration but to be honest went quite quick and really was no hassle.

[jno]

wonderful country, though the formalities can be slow at both ends. The best advice would depend on exactly which part of the USA you're going to.

You can take what you like in your hand luggage (except bombs, etc) as long as it doesn't exceed the airline's size and weight limits. Much better to keep expensive items with you rather than check them in and risk them getting lost.

[VHG]

>Also, are there any additional tips, or information, that anyone can give me?

Been there quite a few times and as almost everyone speaks English very easy to get around and make yourself understood.

I have found most Americans are very friendly and helpful.

When you go to a restaurant they EXPECT a tip, and if you dont give one you may get a waiter chase you out the restaurant.

Most (all?) States have a state tax that is added on AT THE TILL. So something priced at say 2 dollars 99 cents will have extra added to it at the till so it may become 3 dollars 20 cents or whatever.

All the Dollar bills look VERY similar (same size and color) so it is very easy to confuse a 1 dollar bill with a 50 dollar or 100 dollar bill, so check carefully when paying for anything.

If you plan to hire a car or drive take your driving license with you.

They use credit cards over there a lot so it will be helpful if you have one (or take travellers cheques which you can use as "money")

Nobody walks anywhere, they all drive.

Which part of the USA will you be going to?

[whiskeryron]

I love holidaying in the states,been several times to different parts, you'll love it too, as has already been said most americans that I have met have been great , they generally welcome most visitors, I found they were particulaly pleased to meet folks from the UK.
When you dine out the meals are usually huge, it is quite usual to ask for 1 meal & 2 plates as a lot of people share a meal. If you are going to New York City use the Subway system for getting about, you can buy a $10 travel pass which you can use on any trains until the $10 is used up then you can top it up again.As it has been mentioned security is very tight but if you regard it as being for your & everybody elses benefit, I can live with it. Enjoy & have a great time. Ron.

[Kiwi-7]

I'll hopefully be going to Kansas City, Missouri.

[BertiWooster]

'' ....When you dine out the meals are usually huge... ''

We found that out when we ordered a ' medium ' size meal at a KFC
When it came there was enough to feed a small army

[spudqueen]

Er, 237SJ they don't actually give you a green form on the plane anymore, you have to fill this https://esta.cbp.dhs....58C-FBE2-0D51BD2261CF
out before you fly.

[237SJ]

Spudqueen I can assure you they do because I`m the person who gives them out!

[ABerrant]

Why would you be issuing an I-90 (Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card)instead of the I-94W (Non-immigrant Visa Waiver Arrival/Departure Form)?

[237SJ]

sorry just looked at my post - spelling mistake!

[jno]

good advice from VHG. Some people expect Americans to be warmongering rednecks or drivers lilke Starsky and Hutch. In fact they are kind, friendly and well spoken, and the most courteous drivers you'll find anywhere.

I haven't been to Missouri so can't give any local tips. But you will get two Kansas Citie for your money.

http://www.visitkc.com/index.aspx