Call 0330 880 3600 Calls may be monitored or recorded. Opening Times.
- TRAVEL INSURANCE
- COVID-19 ENHANCED COVER
- More Options
- Help & Advice
- Existing Customers
Call 0330 880 3600 Calls may be monitored or recorded. Opening Times.
Need help?
UK Customer Services0330 880 3600*
Open Monday to Friday 9:00am to 6pm, Saturday 8:30am to 4pm and closed Sundays.
*Calls are recorded for training and quality purposes.
Official name: United States of America
Capital city: Washington, D.C.
Languages spoken: English, Spanish
Population: Around 333 million
Currency: US dollar (USD)
Time zones: GMT-5 to -10
Driving side: Right
Climate: Huge variation - from snowy winters in the north, to deserts in the southwest, tropical conditions in Florida and Hawaii, and mild coasts in California
The United States is vast and varied, offering everything from buzzing cities and world-class theme parks to incredible national parks and iconic road trips. New York dazzles with skyscrapers and culture, California tempts with beaches and Hollywood, while Yellowstone, the Grand Canyon, and Yosemite show off nature on a grand scale.
Travellers should be mindful that violent crime, gun violence, and natural disasters (such as hurricanes, wildfires, and tornadoes) occur in parts of the US. While most visits are trouble-free, it’s worth staying alert, especially in unfamiliar urban areas, and keeping an eye on local weather warnings.
The US covers most of central North America, bordered by Canada to the north and Mexico to the south, with coastlines on the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Alaska stretches into the Arctic Circle, and Hawaii sits in the Pacific Ocean. Its geography ranges from mountains and plains to deserts and forests, giving it one of the most diverse landscapes in the world.
The US is well served by airports, with New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, and Atlanta among the busiest. Domestic air travel is common due to the country’s size, though road trips remain iconic - from Route 66 to the Pacific Coast Highway. Attractions are endless, including the Statue of Liberty, Disney World, Las Vegas, San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge, and countless national parks. Public transport is patchy outside major cities, so car hire is often the easiest way to explore.
UK nationals can visit the US under the Visa Waiver Program for up to 90 days, but must apply online for ESTA authorisation before travel. Passports must be valid for the duration of the stay. The British Embassy is in Washington, D.C., with consulates across the country.
The US dollar (USD) is the official currency. ATMs are widespread, and credit/debit cards are accepted everywhere. Tipping is customary, often 15–20% in restaurants, and also expected in taxis and for other services.
Healthcare in the US is excellent but extremely expensive. Comprehensive travel insurance with high medical cover is essential — even minor treatments can cost thousands of dollars. Tap water is safe to drink in most places, though bottled water is widely available. Travellers should also consider weather risks, such as hurricanes on the east coast (June–November) and wildfires in the west.
Get travel insurance
Single trip travel insurance Annual multi-trip travel insurance Pre-existing medical conditions Compare travel insuranceSubscribe to our newsletter
For discounts, competitions, news, tips & more.
