Unavoidable trip admin.
Aka the ‘not so fun’ bit for overseas travellers.
As a tourist visiting the USA, it may feel like there are a lot of hoops to jump through, but it will be worth it when you start your adventure!
USA visa requirements
1 - 90 day stays:
Apply online for an ‘ESTA’ - Electronic System for Travel Authorization.
Valid for two years
Costs around $14
Not sure if you qualify for an ESTA? Check here.
90 days+ stays:
In order to stay more than 90 days, you will need to apply for a B-2 visitor visa.
** Don’t book your flight until your B-2 visa is approved **
What is a B-2 visitor visa?
B-2 temporary visitor visas are for pleasure purposes only (not business), allowing you to stay in the USA for up to 180 days.
Application typically involves completing a form, paying a fee, scheduling an interview and taking required documentation to the interview (requirements may differ by country).
B-2 visa holders are not required to hold a return ticket, however you will need to carry evidence to show that you have reason to go back home.
Travel insurance.
If you are travelling beyond the standard 31 days, travel insurance can get expensive. That said, it is a compulsory item to budget for.
The cost and level of cover is dependent on numerous factors, including how high in elevation you are going to hike or cycle.
Once you know where you are going, research how many meters you are hiking or cycling up to, to ensure you are only paying for what you need.
Up to 2,500 meters
Up to 4,600 meters
Mount Whitney, California @ 4,421 meters - the tallest mountain in the USA (with the exception of Alaska and Hawaii)
Colorado boasts 54 ‘fourteeners’ - mountain peaks @ 14,000+ feet (4,267+ meters) - all under 4,600 metres
4,600 meters and above
Tip: If you are travelling with a friend, email them a copy of your travel insurance. This way, they are aware which provider your insurance is with and can act on your behalf in the event of an accident.
Safety check-list.
If you are new to the backcountry or wilderness areas in the USA, ensure you are prepared for anything.
Stay connected wherever you roam.
You can be off the grid and still keep in touch with friends and family!
Power banks.
Keep your devices charged using different sized power banks and you’ll always have enough power (or power via a solar charger).
It is handy to carry a small charger to use on the go (small enough to fit inside your backpack side pocket), in addition to carrying a larger power bank for charging at camp.
There are many brands to choose from, including:
Goal Zero Flip 10 - 1 x full phone charge
Veho Pebble Explorer - up to 4 x phone charges
Purchasing local SIM cards.
It’s a good idea to get a temporary SIM card when you land in the USA so that you can keep in touch with people that you meet along the way.
Heads up - it is a lot more expensive in the USA to get a monthly SIM contract vs. other countries.
GPS tracking device.
No service, no problem. Stay in touch with friends and family via a GPS tracking device that works when your mobile is out of service.
Send a text or notify emergency responders of your GPS location, with one push of a button.
Service plan - In addition to the device, you will need to sign up to a service plan (one month minimum).
