Going to The USA for The First Time, What Should I Buy/Look out for?

KDOZ on 24/07/2024 - 15:23
Last edited 24/07/2024 - 15:53

Hey OzBargainers

I'm about to leave for my trip to the USA for the first time in a week. Will be meeting up with some mates there. Will be going for roughly 16 days

Whilst on the trip, I want to take advantage of my time there, I'll be having a good time but I'd want to buy some stuff as well. So I want to ask what should be on the lookout for whilst there and bring back some stuff for myself or family.

Edit: I'll be travelling mainly West Coast, like LA, San Fran and Seattle.

I'll then fly to New Orleans and Florida before heading to New York, then back to LA to get home

Also any tips on just travel in general would be pretty handy, will be my first time exploring outside of Australia so hopefully I make it out alive.

Thank you !

Travel North America United States

Comments

  • AnyFurtherDiscount on 24/07/2024 - 16:09
    -1

    Gun..

  • Autonomic on 24/07/2024 - 16:49
    +5

    16 days is pretty short for all those places. I visited in March 2024 and May/June 2023 (San Francisco / New York).

    LA highlight was Six Flags (although it was pretty dodgy). If you go when it opens on a weekday you can go rides the coasters back to back with zero line-up.

    California in general was Yosemite - absolutely go there if you have a chance.

    NYC was Met museum (if you walk through the gift shop you can pretty much walk into the museum for free) and Adele's famous Halal food (very cheap and huge servings).

    There are a lot of niche stuff that isn't necessarily cheaper in the US but for which shipping to AU would kill the deal. I suggest going through Wirecutter to see if there's anything that catches your eye. You can purchase through Amazon US and have it delivered to your hotel. https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/

    Lastly if you have any interest in signing up for US credit cards you might want to take a few hours out and set up a bank account with Bank of America and get an ITIN.

    • CrispyChrispy on 24/07/2024 - 20:26
      +1

      Adele's famous Halal food

      That had me doing a double-take lol

    • Autonomic on 25/07/2024 - 01:31
      +1

      Forgot to add Katz Deli pastrami sandwich. It's almost $50 but its worth doing once. Also 7th Street Burger in NYC for a cheap and amazing burger.

    • dankru on 26/07/2024 - 15:44

      Met is free. It’s a donation if you like

      • Autonomic on 26/07/2024 - 16:44
        +1

        On certain days it's free. Not always.

        • marcozmitch on 28/07/2024 - 13:51

          Friday it is free I think.

  • isthisreallife22 on 24/07/2024 - 18:00
    +2

    Be ready to be shocked how much things cost. Even food. It's not a cheap place at all atm

  • Tricon on 24/07/2024 - 18:20
    +6

    While in LA, consider visiting the Griffith Observatory.

  • nekro on 24/07/2024 - 18:27
    -1

    Guns ammo and nuclear weapons

  • Sweet3st on 24/07/2024 - 18:35

    They have all kinds of crazy confectionery and package cakes etc. There are stores where you can fill a trolley! Not good for you but neither is US ;)

  • dtc on 24/07/2024 - 18:40
    +13

    6 places in 16 days? You wont have time to go shopping. And the places arent even very close, you have at around 4 days of travel (1/2 day between each place on the West Coast, 3/4 day to NO, 1/2 day to Florida, probably 2/3 of a day by the time you get into Manhattan). Then back to LA. Its like going Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, Darwin, Perth Adelaide and then Auckland.

    • bulletbill88 on 28/07/2024 - 10:50

      Yeah sounds like OP will spend most of their holidays travelling? US airports suck. Shopping sucks (most stuff cheaper in Australia) and eating out in the big cities gets super expensive unless you are prepared to travel out of the tourist areas.

      My advice OP - go to fewer cities and see more.

  • barge-in hunter on 24/07/2024 - 18:55
    +2

    You won’t have much spare time, but here are a few spots I enjoyed

    NYC
    - public transport museum. Very cool period train carriages and buses all decked out
    - tenement museum. Living quarters from the 1800s and 1900s frozen in time
    - walking photography tour of Central Park. If nothing else, guarantees some cool pics

    New Orleans
    - walking food tour. Get to appreciate all the architecture and the amazing food in one

    San Fran
    - Alcatraz, but you might have missed out already. You have to book months in advance

    Stuff to buy? Go over with no luggage and Check the clothing outlets. Decent prices on what are expensive brands here - but still not cheap” clothes

  • michaelTito on 24/07/2024 - 19:33
    +1

    Look out for homeless people in LA

  • yeahyeah on 25/07/2024 - 00:14
    +7

    Thats ALOT of cities across a VERY large area in 16 days, have you looked at a map? Or at least how long it's going to take you to travel between each of those cities?

  • bigbadboogieman on 25/07/2024 - 00:33
    +13

    Lookout for car break ins, in and around San Francisco and California in general. Don't leave any valuables and luggage in car whatsoever. Not even in the trunk unless you're prepared to live without it. They will always target the trunk. People leave notes saying "no valuables" stuck to their windows and leave doors unlocked so their car isn't broken to get access. Check YouTube and see what this means for you.

    Always select no tip during checkout screens at fast food restaurants. They will automatically add a tip or present a screen to select. If 0% option is not available in selection, then select custom and tap 0. You gotta tip at least 20% for table service though. Lookout for "gratuity" (or similar terminology) in the bill. Some restaurants automatically add this for parties of 3 or more. That is basically a tip, so no need to tip on top of that.

    All prices are excluding sales tax. Always work that into your calculations before ordering and buying stuff.

    If planning to go to Disney, Universal, etc, then buy a priority pass or equivalent (Disney Genie). Otherwise you will spend most of your day standing in queues. They now call these queues "stand by" instead of normal while the priority pass holders are considered "normal" queue.

    Stuff to eat, try and buy:
    - In and out burger and Dave's Fried chicken in California, Miraki for continental/greek food. Mexican food is a must try. Good Mexican places literally outclass anything mexican you get in AU. Dairy Queen soft serves
    - In San Francisco, if near Fisherman's Wharf, try out the Chili and Clam Chowder in Sourdough Bowl. Also visit IT'SUGAR outlet. Also banana split with brownies at Ghirardelli square. Also try out one of the driverless ride hailing services. That's an experience you won't get in AU anytime soon.
    - Find factory outlets for clothing and look for discounted / clearance isles. I got some really good quality jackets for $60 a pop that's easily $250 here.
    - Griffith Observatory is a must visit but make sure you go inside and check out the exhibits inside.
    - Try and go to Disney, Universal and Warner Bros. I loved it there but I see that you have very limited days.
    - Get Salt Water Taffy, Buffalo and other spicy sauces and Pepperidge Farm biscuits.

    No need to buy a Sim in the US. Carry a phone that supports esim. I had an iPhone with a physical Sim for Australia so it worked as a dual Sim with a US eSim. Use the following hack to get a free eSim with sufficient data and call inclusions for 30 days.
    https://www.ozbargain.com.au/node/770079

  • drfuzzy on 25/07/2024 - 04:01
    +2

    What Should I Buy/Look out for?

    Buy anything $1000 or more. Steal anything < $1000*

    *Experience may vary outside of California.

  • hopper on 25/07/2024 - 06:28
    +1

    book a room in trump towers

  • ForkSnorter on 25/07/2024 - 06:47
    +1

    Buy a house in New Orleans. Far cheaper than any Australian city,

  • cnrmlj on 25/07/2024 - 06:50
    +4

    I lived in the US as a teenager and travelled there 7 times as an adult and going for the 8th time next month.

    That is a lot of places and a lot of distance to cover in 16 days. A lot of time spent in transit to airports, in airports and on planes or cars. Have you mapped out your travel time and worked how much actual "sight seeing" time you will have? My quick calc is just over half of the 16 days.

  • joshash on 25/07/2024 - 07:54

    Go to Katz's deli in Manhattan and get a Rueben :)

    • afah0447 on 25/07/2024 - 08:38
      +2

      You'll need a mortgage to be able to afford it though.

      • afah0447 on 01/08/2024 - 14:35

        Update - given today's exchange rate, a Pastrami sandwich will cost you $42.03!

        It is literally just meat between dry rye bread.

    • eek on 25/07/2024 - 10:24

      Yes, no, kind of…wasn't mind blowing, but good. Struggled to choose between Grimaldi's and Juliana's pizza at DUMBO though. Ended up going to Juliana's. Don't regret it. Tips. Calculating and paying tips was slightly inconvenient. Having to keep various denominations of cash on hand all the time.

  • Jeannie77 on 25/07/2024 - 07:58
    +3

    There is a chain of shops called Ross Dress for Less that are really cheap. They sell suitcases too if you buy too much. Also I really enjoyed bus tours as saw so much in just a few hours and the bus drivers told you so much you would not have known if you drove yourself.

  • Nebargains on 25/07/2024 - 08:31
    +1

    Well I think you are doing too much in 16 days, when I went last year we went to 4 places in like 19 days or something? And one of those places we only spent a couple of nights there (Dallas) because that was where we flew in/out and the other cities were relatively close together. You are going to be rushing around so much you won't have time.

    Anyway, I felt pretty safe over there but one thing that I kinda stressed about before hand was tipping.

    Honestly it isn't a big deal, most places just present several tipping options to you on a screen and you can choose or specify your own, others you just write down the tip on the receipt and it is charged to your card afterwards somehow. But don't be afraid to not tip either, it's not like you'll be going back to these places and they probably don't care, plenty of locals wouldn't tip either.

  • afah0447 on 25/07/2024 - 08:48
    +1
    • CA is very expensive now. You're in for a real treat.
    • Watch out for compulsory tipping, service charges and resort fees.
    • Fast food is very expensive now. Don't bother just go to a fast casual restaurant or diner.
    • Public transport is generally poor in the US.
    • Be prepared to see massive poverty and many people living on the streets.
  • bocca on 25/07/2024 - 09:56
    +1

    West coast:
    - I'd avoid downtown LA, San Diego & Sanfran. They are tent cities.
    - Hire a car. Transport is poor
    - The OC, national parks, theme parks & grand canyon are nice.
    - Food is not as fresh as Australia. However sushi, Mexican & chic fila are good.

  • SuperLate on 25/07/2024 - 10:12

    If you plan to buy food and other items to bring back to Australia, be aware of Australian Biosecurity restrictions and requirements. You don't wanna waste money buying stuff that might get confiscated at Australian Airport or you may have to pay a hefty fee to get them chemically treated.

    https://www.abf.gov.au/entering-and-leaving-australia/can-yo…

    And each state has their seperate rules and list.

  • Roe Jogan on 25/07/2024 - 10:12
    +1

    try in N out and popeyes and chick fi A and chipotle also try Newyork slice and kats deli pastrami sandwich, see what the fuss is all about and report back here

    • Autonomic on 25/07/2024 - 10:38

      Not the OP but:

      In-N-Out - Very cheap, good quality smash burger. Not mind blowing but very good considering the price.

      Chick-fil-A - Decent but not really anything special

      NY slice - cheap ones are good for the price I guess? Apart from that I tried Joe's pizza and a few other ones and it wasn't anything mind blowing

      Katz - Insanely expensive but the sandwich is excellent. The pastrami is stacked super high and is cut from a freshly cooked piece every time.

      Didn't try Popeyes.

    • sumyungguy on 25/07/2024 - 10:57

      In-N-Out, also try Shake Shack
      Chick-fil-A, I enjoyed their brekky biscuits & muffins
      I rate Popeyes, gather they're working on opening here

      • Roe Jogan on 25/07/2024 - 11:19
        +1

        also add five guys and shake shack, im sure cali has alot of amazing mexican street food joints coz of its proximity to the border, dont forget texas bbq like briskets and shit like that, also for newyork or any town download the barstool pizza app, it shows you the best rated pizza joints and their address rated by david on his show, (he reviews Italian newyork style pizza) also stop by skidrow i heard its a great tourist location

  • Poor Ass on 25/07/2024 - 10:24

    Don't wear the wrong colours in certain neighbourhoods :)

    • Vieira4 on 25/07/2024 - 11:57

      Be sure not to visit Watts and Compton.

      • Poor Ass on 25/07/2024 - 12:37

        He want some Skidrow

  • davidmwilliams on 25/07/2024 - 10:26
    +14

    I go to the US regularly for tech events - been three times this year, got two more trips already coming up in the next couple of months.

    I say that simply to give some credence when I say it's not cheap; I'm not sure why one poster said that. Our dollar is worth less, and everything, everything in the US has sales tax added to the sticker price, plus OMG the ridiculous endless demand for tips, even asking for tips on top of auto gratuity and service fees added to the bill too.

    Anyhow, that aside, the US is a magnificent place with so much happening and unique identities across the entire country. It's remarkable how Australia could be if if weren't for our massive wasteland desert in the middle. Of course, Australia has much saner gun control and healthcare.

    So my view on buying things is by all means, buy souvenirs, buy gifts, buy clothes you like, but don't go there thinking the US is (say) the best place to buy leather jackets or electronics or whatever. You will find foods there you don't get here, of course. Trader Joes is popular, for example, for bringing some things back home.

    With regards travel tips …

    • use the free app TripIt and forward your airline itinerary to it. TripIt will help keep you updated on flights, delays, gate changes, luggage carousels, and all kinds of things
    • don't necessarily go out and buy a SIM card; you can get by with free Wi-Fi a lot
    • your Uber account will work in the US, but also check out Waymo - get a self-driving taxi when in San Francisco; way cool.
    • take out travel insurance before you leave
    • let your bank know you are travelling (you should be able to do this via your bank's app, no need to call)
    • traffic drives on the other side of the road! Be careful when crossing streets to remember to look the correct way
    • a hop-on/hop-off bus is always a great way to see the major highlights of a new city, with an audio commentary, and lots of opportunity to get off and explore further then get back on
    • you don't need to tip if the bill already includes a gratuity
    • that said, tipping can be nice if people do a helpful thing for you
    • you'll go through LAX. There are a lot of terminals there so if you are connecting instead of staying in LA to start, be careful to find the right terminal. If you're using American Airlines/Oneworld it'll be terminals 4 and 5. If United then terminal 8, and so on. Check the monitors, ask for help, but above all, be calm and try to think carefully. It can be easy to get nervous and panic when you're in a foreign country for the first time and you're in a huge airport and don't know where to go
    • you can take prescription medications you need; put them in your carry-on luggage because, of course, your check-in bags could get lost.
    • stick an AirTag in your check-in bags; it'll help give you a lot of comfort if you know where your bags are
    • don't leave valuables in plain sight
    • don't get cash from TravelEx or any of those absolute rip-off currency exchange places. Generally, you're best simply withdrawing from an ATM from your bank. Or buy some cash from your bank before you go. In any case, you won't need a lot of cash - you can use card everywhere, but small bills are good for tipping
    • note the way the US use cards is different to us. You don't just tap at a restaurant. They'll take your card away, "run it", then bring it back, and later they'll charge it including the tip (which you write on the bill they give you). It's weird at first, but you get used to it. Just remember not to leave without your card.
    • enjoy yourself, and keep calm. Whenever you travel, stuff happens. Planes are delayed. Gates change. Everything and anything can happen.
    • most people are friendly
    • consider carefully what you pack. People will tell you to take pillows, headphones, this and that - but remember, everything is weight and everything is something you have to carry. By all means, a good set of headphones can be good, but think about what you really need and what you'll really use.
    • Roe Jogan on 25/07/2024 - 18:19

      i think i will never enter a resturant there and always go to fast food joints if i go one day just so i dont tip because im so against the concept of a forced tip..

    • Bypass on 25/07/2024 - 20:15

      "Our dollar is worth less, and everything, everything in the US has sales tax added to the sticker price" Not everything, most states don't tax groceries and petrol.

      • bulletbill88 on 28/07/2024 - 11:08

        Groceries are still expensive there though. Especially in LA/San Fran/NY.

        We just got back and even in the smaller, out of the way towns groceries have still got very expensive. You stop doing conversion back to Australian dollars after a while because you very rarely feel good about the result.

    • bulletbill88 on 28/07/2024 - 11:04

      Beware it can take hours to clear immigration at LAX too. Seriously, imagine one of the longest lines you can think of, barely moving with no air conditioning and muggy heat, and then a humourless boarder agent at the end.

      Once you are in though, if you are lucky you’ll meet some of the nicest and most polite people you’ll ever find.

    • niyiaw on 28/07/2024 - 21:02

      note the way the US use cards is different to us. You don't just tap at a restaurant. They'll take your card away, "run it", then bring it back, and later they'll charge it including the tip (which you write on the bill they give you). It's weird at first, but you get used to it. Just remember not to leave without your card.

      Is this just restaurants? Everywhere else is "normal" tapping?

  • nekro on 25/07/2024 - 10:31

    Think about starting off in new York 1st then working your way back to the east coast..as others have said youll be sending along time on planes and transit lounges.

  • melancholykeith on 25/07/2024 - 10:33

    Buy a bottle or 2 of NyQuil and take a dose before flying home.
    You'll be in a coma, which is not great for your tailbone as you won't move whilst in the plane seat.
    But you'll sleep the whole way.

  • gromit on 25/07/2024 - 11:04

    You have some of the more dangerous cities on your travel list. Don't walk CBD streets at night, even in groups. New Orleans this time of year smells like an open toilet, hope you have a strong stomach. Personally the must have when I am over there is Clam Chowder in sour dough roll.

    • Roe Jogan on 25/07/2024 - 18:21

      isnt that where they throw the beads at ya

  • 82norm on 25/07/2024 - 11:34
    +2

    Give the grits a miss. Do the Highline in NY, catch a ferry on the east side for fantastic views.

  • tongu on 25/07/2024 - 13:00

    If you look at someone the wrong way, they might expect a tip.

  • SydneySchnorrer on 25/07/2024 - 13:12
    +3

    Sign up for a Wise Card. (Happy to share a referral link)

    Easy app to setup, you can PayID AUD and convert to USD. So much cheaper than taking cash out or bank and can add to Apple Wallet.

    In Seattle, do the Boeing Tour.
    In Florida, try get to the bars in Miami at night.
    In San Franciso - avoid the downtown, it's filthy nowadays, stick to the waterfront and half a day going to Alcatraz.
    In LAX, catch the ferry to Catalina. Try catch a Dogers or Lakers/Clippers game, but expect to pay thru the nose.
    In NYC - walk from the Bronx to Battery park. It's a whole day thing but it's worth seeing all the little villages and neighbourhoods.

    Safe travels and DO NOT FORGET GOOD TRAVEL INSURANCE - YOU CAN BE BANKRUPTED GOING TO THE US.

    • Matt P on 28/07/2024 - 21:57

      I had some success getting Dodgers tickets on stubhub. Midweek game so it was easier.

      If you get lucky, you'll get to see Ohtani/Freeman/Betts/Hernandez knock one out the park.

  • Hangryuman on 25/07/2024 - 13:23

    people in the USA call you 'Sir' because they never know if that's a gun in your pocket, or you're just happy to see them.

  • Hangryuman on 25/07/2024 - 13:26

    if you rent a car beware of the cheaper US websites that do not include insurance - as for US citizens their car insurance travels with them, so they don't need to pay extra.

    visiting foreigners NEED to pay extra for car insurance - LDW, CDW, I forget

    so don't think you've scored a bargain if you don't get car insurance !

  • Cluster on 25/07/2024 - 13:45

    I bought a can of cheese in a can to take home. My suitcase was opened by the TSA on every subsequent flight to check what the suspicious item was.

  • Cluster on 25/07/2024 - 13:47
    +1

    US gold coins are 10% cheaper over there. Only 999 fine gold bullion is GST free here, while US gold coins are 90% gold.

  • Cluster on 25/07/2024 - 13:50
    +1

    US prices are bizarre in some states. In New York City everything has a (I believe) 8.375% tax added on at the cash register, so if you bring exact change to buy something based on the shelf price you'll always be short.

    If you smoke you'll love the prices of tobacco there. In Missouri a pack of Marlboros is around US$6.

  • Sunshines bright on 25/07/2024 - 14:22

    Try a ribeye steak 🥩, great cut juicy and more delicious than any steak I ate in oz! Outback restaurants blooming onion worth a try. Have American Bacon 🥓 for breakfast. Shoney’s restaurant has the best strawberry pies! Never see dessert pies here. Those are a few things I miss the most. Aussie American here!

    • gromit on 30/07/2024 - 12:47

      If you know where to look you will find better quality steaks in Australia. The US does a higher general standard than the garbage most people buy in supermarkets here but the top end in Australia is better, though most goes to export markets that will pay the prices.

      • Sunshines bright on 31/07/2024 - 07:51

        Where are said quality steak 🥩 going?

        • gromit on 31/07/2024 - 10:11

          Japan, some to Europe and to the USA, (The US is actually one of our biggest Beef export markets, with around 250,000 tons a year, but a lot of high quality stuff goes to Japan or EU too)

  • SuperScope on 25/07/2024 - 14:29
    +2

    Just came back from a trip to the US, looks like the only overlap we had with your trip was LA and New York so I'll focus on these.

    LA

    New York

    • If you're going to see a show in NY, I'd personally recommend The Outsiders on Broadway. We absolutely loved it and it recently won a Tony for best musical. These are some codes which previously worked which provided cheaper tickets to the show, but it may be too late to purchase cheaper tickets: PONYSOCIAL | STAYGOLD | PONYBOY
    • Sleep no more was also pretty cool as well. Very unique theatre experience.
    • If you're going to do an Observation deck, we quite enjoyed Sumit One Vanderbilt. Its one of the newer observation decks in New York and they've built an interactive experience around it and its roughly the same price as the other observation decks. This will require pre-booking.

    Here are also some Apps we found useful which can be used across multiple states:

    • Seated app - Get rewards to dine out. As long as you make a booking via their app and upload your receipt, you get 'cash back' in the app which can be used on giftcards. Giftcards include Uber, Starbucks (I know) and others. Even if you dont need the cash back, its a great way to shortlist restaurants nearby as we found the amount of options sometimes overwhelming.
      • Note you cant cash out directly from the app and are locked in to purchasing the set giftcard values they have in the app. So if you have 'earned' $19 and the lowest giftcard value is $20, then you're out of luck. Its pretty easy to get the value required though and its especially useful if you're going to be using Uber to get around.
    • Too good to go - You can buy 'mystery food packs' from restaurants. These will be filled with what the restaurant has available at the end of the day. Usually you can get a really good food pack for really cheap (e.g we got full meals for $10 which included pulled pork and a heap of veg). We found this useful when we were too busy to go and have a sit down meal. Instead it allowed us to pick up a meal late at night while we were on the walk back to our hotel. Note: they do sell out quickly so you will have to pre-plan a bit.
    • TodayTix - If you're going to see a show, check if they have cheaper tickets available on TodayTix. They have broadway shows available for purchase as well.
    • Look for a referral code online for Seated, pretty easy to find and gives you some extra cash. Not sure if Too good to go had any referral codes, take a look and you might find it online.

    As others have said, get a local sim. Coverage can vary depending on the on the city and the carrier you are with, so I'd recommend still downloading the maps locally to your device.

    And stating the obvious, make sure you have good travel insurance.

  • bmxr on 25/07/2024 - 14:51
    +2

    On your last day in LA before you fly home, head to the Citadel Outlets and use your leftover USD to fill any gaps you have in your checked luggage. Or buy a cheap duffle bag and fill that up.

  • branners on 25/07/2024 - 14:58

    The meals are generally huge and a main course is called an entree.
    Tipping in restaurants now seems to be about 20%. Pain in the rear.
    Refills of 'sodas' and beverages are usually free and unlimited.
    When you go shopping in a major store ask for a discount because you are from out of the country. Or because you have a pet. Or you are a churchgoer. Yes, I know, but all three have worked for me.
    Pick up an Onn 4K streaming player at Walmart if you can. In fact, get a bunch of them and sell them in the OzB classies. They are great and you can't get them here.
    If you are going up the west coast try to do your shopping in Oregon. No state sales tax.

  • dogzilla on 25/07/2024 - 15:10

    Always have your passport ready for ID, security say "that is nawt acceptable" when you produce an aussie drivers licence.

    Go to the Discount outlet malls - shoes / sneakers are cheaper (mostly).

    When i travel, i take an old suitcase, if i find a bargain one over there i buy the new one and throw the old one away. Also travel light so you can buy more clothes - on average, most stuff is (or was) a bit cheaper than Aus.

    Be a dumb aussie and ask the waitress "im a dumb aussie, we dont know about tipping, tell me about it" often results in a really nice story from the waitress - plus you learn.

    Flying on an aeroplane has a 50/50 chance of losing your bags….try with carry-on where possible!.

    Don't feel you need to tip through the wazoo because you are a tourist. 15% was standard, 20% is normal (for some) and higher elsewhere. If you run into a jam where you think your service was total crap and they still want a tip - roll some small notes up and hand them that or put it in the jar at the cashier - they don't know how much is there. You shouldn't have to pay for awful service (some may disagree, just my $0.02 worth, only done it once in a dozen or more trips to the USA)..

    Uber drivers love to chat in the US. Talk, get tips from locals.

    Try and spot Ron Jeremy at LAX…..a mate did.

    • blighst on 28/07/2024 - 18:18

      Be a dumb aussie and ask the waitress "im a dumb aussie, we dont know about tipping, tell me about it" often results in a really nice story from the waitress - plus you learn.

      Or an opportunistic a*hole trying to take advantage of you

  • kiwimex on 25/07/2024 - 15:34

    I just got back form the USA and Mexico don't listen to half the bullshit bagging the USA and Mexico on this page. Most comments are based on bullshit media waffle and not real life experiences.

    Sounds like you have packed way too much travelling into 16 days, leaves little time to be a tourist and enjoy the sights.

    That said be prepared for the heat in New York, LA and San Diego a wonderful at this time of the year, nice and warm with dry heat.

    Not much is cheap in the USA now days, just down think about the exchange rate and enjoy yourself.

  • auna on 25/07/2024 - 16:28

    There are cafes that tried to get me to tip for handing me a red bull from a fridge. Fastest zero tip in history. Japanese vending machines would obliterate so many places there.

    Cinnabon was so expensive that I was shocked. I paid $14 for one cinnabon and while it was nice jeez.

    • sumyungguy on 25/07/2024 - 18:25

      They're thinking ahead of the Japanese. Ammunition vending machines are coming to grocery stores in Alabama, Texas and Oklahoma

  • MessyG on 25/07/2024 - 18:19

    I really loved the East Village in New York - Momofuku etc, lots of tiny little amazing places like the speakeasy called Please Don't Tell hidden inside Crif Dogs and all the other secret speakeasies, some random basement Izakaya - have a read before you go, it was my favourite part of NY. Oh and the planetarium at the natural history museum is the best I've ever been to. Rowing a boat in Central Park is pretty fun. Big Gay Ice cream is delicious.

    New Orleans I would do a music tour. And these days rather than shopping I would get out into nature, America has some incredible natural spaces.

  • SuperMid on 25/07/2024 - 19:06
    -1

    I would buy a p90 airsoft rifle

  • Ononono on 25/07/2024 - 19:39

    That's an ambitious itinerary, you'll have very little time for shopping outside of airports.

  • ptl93 on 25/07/2024 - 19:56

    . Don't forget to tip at the restaurant, hotel or even taxis.
    . Avoid people who dress up as superheroes. They'll invite you to take photos with them then ask for tip.
    . Don't forget to pay for gas (petrol) first before filling.
    . Most of the price you see on display are excluding tax.
    . Travel insurance is a must.

  • Sean8802 on 25/07/2024 - 20:08

    Crackheads and guns.

  • lostinsydney on 25/07/2024 - 20:40

    Toilets!
    They are huge.

  • JoeTripodi on 26/07/2024 - 00:05
    +2

    USA is really expensive now for everything, even worse when you factor in the poor exchange rate. I used to live there in 2017 it was still pretty cheap however now the inflation has gone wild. Also New Orleans is a tourist trap shit hole, careful walking around at night there.
    I still work in USA now but live in Australia so this info is current.

  • PleasureMe on 26/07/2024 - 00:45

    Massages and ladies of the night cost a lot more over there than they do in Australia. As an OzBargainer, you won't feel as though you are getting good value compared to what you can get here. It's also illegal in some parts of the US, so just be smart.

  • sween64 on 26/07/2024 - 08:15

    When I was in New York I spent a bit on clothes, came across my favourite store: Massimo Dutti. There was something about no tax on items under $100 US. Not sure of the details…

  • ChunkyToast on 26/07/2024 - 08:52
    +1

    Guns. Won't get it here. 🤣

  • Goat Lord on 26/07/2024 - 09:47

    It's probably too late (flights booked) but I recommend hitting up Hawaii on the way to LA, splits the long flight in half. I rented a convertible there and it was amazing just driving around and meeting randoms. Also the Pearl Harbour museums and the USS Missouri battleship were pretty interesting (you can walk on it!). It was also less fked up than LA, you can't just walk around in either place due to the size of the cities. In US cities you can walk for miles without hitting a single shop etc whereas in AU you walk five minutes and run into another cafe. In LA, I tried both Disneyland which was rubbish, and Universal Studios which was much much better, the rides & attractions were all awesome but Disneyland seemed aimed at children specifically. Also don't believe the movies, I ran into a lot of random african americans and they were all incredibly friendly, didn't have a single issue. But I wasn't in the bad areas so mileage may vary on that one.

  • Sterio on 26/07/2024 - 11:15

    Most things have been mentioned.
    In n Out for a burger (LA).
    LA shopping - Citadel Outlets on the day of departure.
    LA - Hire a car, you’ll need it to get around, especially if going to the theme parks. If so, book a hotel with free parking as a lot now charge for parking.
    Shopping US wide - Ross Dress for Less, TJ Maxx. If you are a Costco member, take your card with you. Heaps of great clothing deals over there. Can also stock up on some food.
    Seattle - Highly recommend Boeing tour. Can also pick up a ferry to Vancouver Island.
    NY - Free Staten Island Ferry. Cruises right past Statue of Liberty.
    Sim - you’re not gone for a lengthy period. Get a Sim or if your provider has cheap roaming it might be easier. Optus and Vodafone have $5 a day. I know with Optus you get 5GB a day.

  • Damngood on 26/07/2024 - 11:30

    Get yourself a glock or desert eagle and a quarter of gorilla glue.

  • souljah on 26/07/2024 - 12:26

    Geez, there is a lot of snarky comments in here. Some remind me how lucky we are over here, some seem to forget how expensive it is over here at the moment - housing in particular is just ludicrous.

    If your a runner or want to be one then you might snag some sweet deals on decent shoes. Look out for sales on last year's models or ones that have been out since early this year, even with the exchange rate they can work out a fair bit cheaper and availability is much better.

  • Cluster on 26/07/2024 - 12:32

    I recommend dropping by Trump Tower in New York. You can go inside as there's a restaurant, bar, and you can ride the escalators like that famous video of Trump before he announced he was running in 2015.

    Love him, hate him, or be completely indifferent about him, it's worth having a look.

  • AS2035 on 26/07/2024 - 14:32

    Last time we went we purchased jeans as they were a 25% of our price. DVD's a cheaper. Do price comparison. Know what you want.
    Coffee in USA is crap.
    Everything is supersized. Even filtered coffee which is just dirt and water. Their biggest cup is a litre.
    Everything is on oz. they do not comprehend grams and Celsius. it's all Fahrenheit

    DO NOT DISCUSS POLITICS

    • Matt P on 28/07/2024 - 22:10

      Jeans aren't really cheaper there anymore. Calvin Klein 33/32 Slim tapers fit me perfectly. Can get them here for $80 at the outlets. In the US a few years ago about US$50+ sales tax. Cheaper here.

      Tried to get my dad some Levis. Also cheaper in AU at costco.

      • AS2035 on 29/07/2024 - 18:44

        Like I said, price comparison. I cook so probably would have been getting cookware I cannot get here but can in USA..

        Enjoy the trip. As you have to tip for everything will be expensive. My ex complained that I was not tipping. Neither did he when he paid., and he was going for supersize everything for a $1 more. So when I paid for a meal, I made sure he tipped.. Price for complaining :-)

  • Cluster on 26/07/2024 - 16:18

    Stock up on $1 and $5 bills. Get as many as you can. Everyone expects a tip. Put $10 on the nightstand as a tip for room service. Even when you're not there the staff expect tips.

  • Cluster on 26/07/2024 - 16:33

    There are so many negative comments about the USA here that I'll just add this: When I visited almost everyone was really nice. They're just normal people trying to get through the day like everyone else here. We see the very worst of the USA plastered all over our media, and if you look for it you may well find it, but that's not the normal everyday experience.

  • nikey2k27 on 26/07/2024 - 18:49

    Brand clothier is cheap in usa i last went there in 2012 ask your airline if you have 2 case on way back. https://www.c21stores.com/content/brand-list

  • BluebirdV on 26/07/2024 - 18:54

    Why is it always the USA where people want to buy stuff? Why never Japan, Bali, Spain or anywhere else?

    • this is us on 26/07/2024 - 19:46

      Because generally everything is cheaper in the US?

    • sumyungguy on 26/07/2024 - 21:21

      Japan: Uniqlo, Asics
      Spain: Zara, Balenciaga, Bershka, Desigual
      USA: Abercrombie & Fitch, DKNY, Hollister, Carhartt, American Eagle, Levis, Gap, Polo Ralph Lauren, Guess USA, Thom Browne, Calvin Klein, Tommy Hilfiger, Under Armor, The North Face, Patagonia, Nike, Keen, New Balance, Reebok, Converse, Saucony, Timberland, Merrell… to name a few

  • RefusdClassification on 26/07/2024 - 19:30

    Visit at least 1 national park eg Yellowstone, Zion, Yosemite, Bryce Canyon.

    Washington DC is apparently very impressive, but you are spending most of your time on the West Coast.

    Look out for legal cannabis. Consume it in the US; don't bring it back into Australia though. Go to a shooting range with real firearms. Play airsoft (illegal in AU).

    Take photos of homeless encampments.

  • [Deactivated] on 26/07/2024 - 19:37

    For buying things, look for: "outlet mall".
    The popular deal sites there that I can remember are spoofee.com, passwird.com, and slickdeals.net
    You can download areas on Google Maps so that you can access them offline.
    Bring a power strip/board with a power adapter.
    Don't buy things that only work with 110v/60hz

  • pogichinoy on 26/07/2024 - 19:44
    +2

    Mixtapes randoms on the street offer you.

  • Sweet3st on 26/07/2024 - 21:22

    I love the US, so larger than life! Generally the food is very good and people are warm and friendly.
    LA I liked but I stayed in Venice which was nice. Do one of the Hollywood Hills bus tours, see Mulholland Drive and celebrity mansions.
    New Orleans. Ride the tram cars. The food is incredible! I did a bayou boat tour. Amazing musicians just playing on the street.
    NY. So many incredible museums and galleries. The Highline is nice. Walk around the shoreline. Central Park. The Met. Get out of Manhattan.
    Manhattan is very safe. Downtown LA is apocalyptic. New Orleans has lots of no go areas.
    Stay safe.
    O and enjoy the warm welcome from Homeland Security when you arrive 😂.

  • Senatekill on 26/07/2024 - 21:54
    +1

    I used to live in seattle and san fran - seattle was super safe and san fran safe in areas….now its a no go across most areas of both cities.

  • BartholemewH on 26/07/2024 - 22:08

    Starbucks. Lol, just kidding 🤮

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