Hub: packing. Some things are rules, not products. Some products are cheaper or bulkier after you land.
Rules, not Amazon
- ESTA — entry, print + phone.
- America the Beautiful pass — buy at the first park gate if you are visiting two or more. Not an Amazon listing.
- Tipping — cash helps in small towns. See culture shock.
- Voltage — US is 120V. Dual-voltage chargers are fine; hair tools often are not. Check the tiny print.
Buy in the UK
| Item | Why | Search |
|---|---|---|
| TSA-approved padlock | US security can open these. | TSA-approved padlock |
| Universal adapter | Covered in tech. | Universal adapter |
| RFID-ish document wallet | Hotels and coaches. | RFID-ish document wallet |
Buy on arrival (amazon.com)
| Item | Why | Search |
|---|---|---|
| Sunscreen SPF 50 | Do not fly a family bottle. | Sunscreen SPF 50 |
| Insect repellent | Parks and dusk. | Insect repellent |
| Soft cooler bag | Road snacks. | Soft cooler bag |
| Water bottles | If you did not pack one. | Water bottles |
| First-aid restock | Plasters vanish. | First-aid restock |
| Cheap sunglasses spare | They die. | Cheap sunglasses spare |
| PAYG-style US SIM (optional) | Only if eSIM failed. | PAYG-style US SIM (optional) |
Same idea in a supermarket: Walmart, Target, or a drugstore near the first hotel. Retail map: shopping. Park prints: merch.
Pack this bag
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