The USA remains one of the most aspirational destinations for Indian travellers. Whether it is New York, Los Angeles, Orlando, Chicago, Miami or one of the many national parks, the states have a lot to offer visitors.
While travellers generally plan their travel around their visa slots, hotel bookings, and tickets, one non-negotiable is travel insurance in United States, mainly because higher medical bills and unexpected travel interruptions can result in significant expenses. So, while a US trip feels glamorous and aspirational, it can be very expensive if not planned carefully.
Know the Visa Process to the USA
The first step in planning your trip to the USA is to complete the visa application process.
- The allocation of B1/B2 visitor visa interview slots remains tight in high-demand cities in India.
- Your passport must have a minimum of 6 months’ validity from your intended return date.
- You need to fill DS-160 form online before your appointment.
- Appointment wait times in major cities can be high during the peak season. Therefore, it is advisable to book early.
Budget Planning and Finances for your USA Trip
When budgeting for the USA, plan your money flow wisely. America is extremely card-friendly. Almost every place accepts digital payments, so you don’t need to carry a lot of cash. Instead, carry a Forex card or an international debit card with a low foreign exchange markup, as this will help you save every time you swipe.
And wherever you land, avoid exchanging currency at the airport; they usually offer poor exchange rates. Moreover, opting for travel insurance can help you avoid additional expenses in the event of emergencies or unforeseen circumstances.
Travel Planning Based on the Seasons
It is always better to plan your US travel by season, as the country experiences very dramatic seasonal shifts. Summer (June to August) is the peak travel period, but prices are at their highest. Spring(March to May) is the sweetest window for first-timers because the weather is pleasant and crowds are still manageable. Autumn (September to November) is an excellent time for value with mild weather, lower hotel rates, and beautiful fall foliage.
Winter (December to February) is magical if you want Christmas lights, snow markets and northern experiences, but it is not ideal for road trips or national parks in snow-prone states.
Also, remember that the United States is vast, so the weather can change drastically from region to region. On the same day, California can be mild and sunny while Chicago can be below zero. Always plan your season based on the exact region you are visiting. Pack your bag with utmost care so you are prepared for every season.
Transportation and Accommodation Options in the USA
Here are a few tips to make your transportation and accommodation convenient in the USA.
- Consider domestic low-cost flights for long distances (LA to NY is 6 hours)
- Explore scenic routes with Amtrak trains.
- Choose city subways in NYC, Chicago and Boston.
- Cab services like Uber/Lyft are widely available and safer than random cabs.
- Motels are cheaper and decent for road trip routes
- Staying in downtown ensures easy accessibility but higher costs.
- Staying 15 to 25 minutes from the centre can drastically reduce your bill.
Health, Medical and Safety Tips for Indians in the USA
Even a small emergency like a sprain, allergic reaction or dehydration can lead to a hospital visit and bills can cross your entire trip budget. This is why proper travel insurance in the United States with high medical coverage is not optional.
Also carry:
- Personal medication and prescription
- Basic painkillers, bandages and motion sickness tablets
- Have your emergency contact list handy.
Conclusion
A trip to the US is exciting, but it can also get expensive once you factor in flights, accommodation, food, and sightseeing. But the one area you should not compromise on is protection against unexpected medical bills and other unforeseen events.
Comprehensive travel insurance coverage from reputable insurers like TATA AIG, with high medical limits, ensures your American dream trip remains financially secure.