£1 US$1.34
Today
11:56 pm
-4h from you
Weather in United States
United States
15°
Overcast
Wed
2
15
Thu
7
23
Fri
7
17
Sat
1
10
Sun
3
14
SPF level in United States
Recommended: SPF 50
Spring
SPF 30
Summer
SPF 50
Autumn
SPF 30
Winter
SPF 15
Suncream is often more expensive in tourist zones. Pack your preferred SPF from the UK, especially for beach holidays. Always carry travel-size (100ml max) for hand luggage.
Getting around United States
Languages in United States
Tipping in United States
Tipping is customary in the United States for various service industries. It's a significant part of service workers' income.
Restaurant
15-20% of the pre-tax bill for good service.
Bar/Café
$1-2 per drink or 15-20% of the total bill.
Taxi
15-20% of the fare.
Hotel Porter
$1-2 per bag.
Hotel Housekeeper
$2-5 per night, left daily.
Tour Guide
10-15% of the tour cost.
Safety in United States
Driving in United States
A UK driving license is valid for a short-term visit. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended, but not always required.
Side of road
right
Motorway speed limit
120 km/h (75 mph) is common, but limits vary by state.
Urban speed limit
40-50 km/h (25-30 mph) is typical in residential areas.
Alcohol limit
0.08%
Remember: United States drives on the right. Take extra care at junctions if you normally drive on the left.
Emergency numbers
Universal emergency
911
Save 911 in your phone before travelling.
Electrical in United States
Voltage
120V / 60Hz
Plug types
Type A, Type B
UK adapter needed?
Yes
In the United States, the standard voltage is 120V and the frequency is 60Hz. Plug types A and B are used. Visitors from the UK will need an adapter.
Cards & payments
Very High
Visa
High
Mastercard
High
American Express
Medium
Lost card? Call Visa: +1 800-847-2911 (toll-free)
ATMs in United States
High
Local name
ATM
Chip & PIN required?
Yes
ATMs are widely available throughout the United States, especially in cities and towns. Most ATMs accept major international cards. You will likely incur fees from both your bank and the ATM operator.
Mobile & roaming
Since Brexit, EU roaming agreements no longer apply to UK mobile customers. Check with your mobile provider for roaming charges in the United States. Roaming charges can be high, so consider purchasing a local SIM card upon arrival.
Local SIM data package
10GB for 30 USD (~£24)
Network coverage
5G, 4G LTE, 3G
Local carriers
Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile
WiFi & internet
High. Free Wi-Fi is commonly available in cafes, restaurants, hotels, and public spaces.
Average speed
100 Mbps
Internet access is widely available in the United States. Wi-Fi is readily accessible in most urban areas and tourist destinations. Mobile data is also reliable.
Health & vaccinations in United States
As a visitor to the United States, you are responsible for any medical costs you incur. The UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) and European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) are not valid in the USA. It is essential to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical expenses, including hospital stays and emergency medical evacuation.
Vaccinations required?
No
Recommended
It's always wise to consult your GP before travelling to discuss any specific health concerns or required vaccinations based on your individual health history and activities planned during your trip.
Medical care in the United States is of a high standard but can be very expensive. Ensure you have adequate travel insurance, including health coverage, before you travel. Check the CDC and NHS websites for up-to-date health advice.
Calling United States
Country code
+1
To call the United States from the UK, dial 00 1 followed by the area code and the local number.
To call the British Embassy in Washington, dial 00 1 202 588 7800.
The country code for the United States is 1. When calling from the UK, you'll need to dial the exit code (00), then the country code (1), followed by the area code and the local number. Mobile phone coverage is generally very good throughout the US.
UK Embassy in United States
British Embassy Washington
3100 Massachusetts Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20008
Airports in United States
Frequently asked questions
While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, AtoBeach cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies. We recommend verifying details with official sources before travelling.