Travelling to USA Tips

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1 About
2 Pre-travel
3 Basics
4 At the airport
5 Tips for travel
6 Driving
7 Miscellaneous
8 Sources

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About

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Pre-travel

Passport with required visas (passport should be valid for at least six months from start of trip). Get all visas in advance.
Get all immunizations brought up-to-date in advance.
Send fax/telex to the destination offices informing them of your arrival information and requesting their assistance with lodging and transportation arrangements.

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Basics

Prescription medicines in clearly labeled containers.
Small first aid kit.
Card listing allergies and medical conditions.
Plain, nondescript luggage.
Business cards (pack in checked luggage).
Alarm clock, battery or wind-up.
Adapters for electrical items (most overseas locations have 220 *volts, 50 Hz electricity.
Personal appliances (hair dryer, etc.) - 220 volts.
Flashlight, smoke alarm, door stop, etc.
Photos - black and white passport size - approx. 20. You may need a photo to obtain passes, permits, etc.

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At the airport

Do not lock your checked bags. (They may have to be checked by security officials for your safety.)
If you are carrying a computer when you check in for your flight, take it out of its case when you approach the security checkpoint.
Do not wrap gifts. They may have to be opened for a security inspection.
Pack smart. Put any camera film in your carry-on baggage. Put your personal items in clear plastic bags so screeners can see them without having to touch them.
Avoid wearing or carrying metallic objects in your clothes to avoid setting off checkpoint alarms.
Arrive early for your flight. Check your airline for details.

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Tips for travel

Stay sober, alert and inconspicuous.
Stay alert and aware of your surroundings.
Keep phone numbers of local contacts with you.
Keep your money out of sight - never count it in public.
Find out the location of the police stations and get phone numbers.
Avoid disturbances - go the other way, immediately.
Learn to operate the telephones the first day.
Always carry your passport, leave copy in security box -- unless *local customs require otherwise.
Don't stop to investigate accidents.
If accosted try to stay calm, watch for escape.
If being followed go directly to the police, hotel, or office.

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Driving

Drive defensively - not aggressively.
Always keep windows up and doors locked.
Keep valuables and belongings out of sight.
Know your route, plan it ahead of time, and vary your routes.
If attacked try to crouch down and drive away.
Keep the gas tank full at all times.
Watch for tampering with your auto - easier to spot on a dirty auto.
Avoid driving or renting expensive automobiles.

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Miscellaneous

Always remember that you are a guest in another's country.
Obey all laws of the country you are in - no drugs - no smuggling.
Baggage - Most airlines allow two bags (max. 70 pounds each -- some size restrictions apply) for direct travel to and from the USA.
Check bags to your final destination.
Know what you are hand carrying for someone else.
Cash - Many countries require that you declare all of the cash (sometimes traveler checks as well) which you are bringing into the country.
Count your cash before leaving in an inconspicuous location.
Keep your currency forms with you.
Never discuss financial matters in public.
Travel Documents - Check all travel documents before leaving to ensure that they are valid for the duration of your trip, including extensions.
Airline Tickets - Check your airline tickets to ensure that routing is as planned and that you know ALL of your stops.
Packing Hints - The clothing you pack should always be appropriate for the climate and activities on your itinerary. The normal attire in many overseas office is fairly casual; however, you may need a suit for visits to government offices. In general, pack
Clothing that is wrinkle-resistant, drip-dry and comfortable.
Comfortable walking shoes.
Versatile styles that can go from casual to dressy.
Toiletries in unbreakable plastic bottles.
Include soap and washcloth.
Pack in your carry-on bag
An all-weather coat - Europe can be cool anytime of the year.
A supply of any medication and extra pair of prescription glasses or contacts lenses.
A change of clothing.
Duplicate suitcase keys.
Familiarize yourself with the currency and exchange laws of the countries you plan to visit.
Tape your name, address, and passport number inside your suitcases.
Take a pocket calculator for converting currency, etc.
Take prescription slips for any necessary medication and eyeglasses.
Carry a small notebook with your camera to record where photos were taken. Most countries prohibit photographing military and governmental facilities.
Keep sales receipts handy for customs.
Get someone to write your hotel address in the local language and keep it with you.
Avoid ice cubes wherever you're advised not to drink the water.
Avoid raw vegetables wherever you're in doubt.
Many airports require payment of an airport exit tax - be sure you have the correct amount in the correct currency.
Many hotel porters require a "verification of payment" slip before they will carry your bags out of the hotel. Ask for this slip from the cashier when you check out.