Travel essentials for United States

Adapters, plugs, tap water, tipping and health basics.

Power & adapters

Type A, B adapter required

You need a Type A or B adapter. At 120V, Australian hair dryers and styling tools will run at half power or not at all — check the label says 100 – 240V.

120V, 60Hz

Tap water

Safe to drink

Tap water is safe across the US. Free tap water is standard in restaurants.

Staying connected

Excellent in cities, genuinely patchy in national parks and rural stretches of the West.

US eSIMs are more expensive than Asian ones but far cheaper than Australian roaming. T-Mobile and AT&T networks give the best coverage; check which network an eSIM uses before you buy.

Compare United States eSIMs

Health risks

Extreme heat in the Southwest in summer
Hurricane season on the Atlantic and Gulf coasts (June – November)
Very high healthcare costs

Emergency numbers in United States

All emergencies	911
Police	911
Ambulance	911
Fire	911
Australian consulate	Australian Embassy Washington D.C. — +1 202 797 3000

Tipping and everyday costs

Expected and effectively compulsory. 18 – 22% in restaurants and bars, USD $2 – $5 per bag for porters, 15 – 20% for taxis and rideshares. Tipping screens now default to high percentages — you can adjust them.

More United States essentials

Entry requirements Passport, visa, arrival cards and customs rules for Australian passport holders. Connectivity Instant data, no physical SIM required. Travel insurance Medical, cancellation and luggage cover from Australian insurers. Money & payments Cards, cash and FX fees for Australian travellers. Airport transfer Trains, buses, private transfers and taxis compared. Driving International Driving Permit rules and car hire for Australians. Things to do Attractions, tours and passes worth booking ahead. Trip checklist Tick off every essential before you fly.