✈️ Heading to United States of America? We've gathered some tips from the bunq community to make sure your trip is the smoothest it can be. 😎
Check them out below! 🌈 👇
Using your card
💳 Do I need cash in United States of America, or can I use my card everywhere?
The US is a card country. Expect card payments to work everywhere, even in small businesses or for small amounts.
In the US, it's very common to authorise a payment by swipe and sign, or chip and sign.
If you get asked "Debit or Credit" choose Credit (even when using a Debit Mastercard). In the US, "Credit" really just means Mastercard and "Debit" really means local payment networks.
💰 What currency do they use here?
The currency here is Dollars. The symbol is $ or USD.
🏧 Which ATM’s can I use for free?
The bunq community has reported free withdrawals at these ATMs.
- TD Bank
- Citibank
- Wells Fargo
- SunTrust Bank
- State Employees Credit Union
💵 If I want cash, how much should I take out of an ATM?
$100 should be enough for a few days.
💳 Should I choose local currency or Euros when paying?
If you're asked to choose between local currency and Euros, always choose local currency.
That way bunq does the conversion for you, and you get to take advantage of the best rates with bunq ZeroFX.
Staying connected
📱 Can I roam, or should I get a local SIM?
Some EU mobile plans might let you roam for free.
Wifi is readily available in the US, especially in coffee shops.
If you want to get a local SIM card, you can learn about your options here.
Useful things to know
💁♀️ How does tipping work?
It is normal to tip 15-20% on service in the US on a sit down meal.
Most people don't tip on take away items, such as coffee or fast food.
Generally, a payment at a sit down restaurant is authorised without the tip, and then you write the tip on the receipt after. It can take up to 7 days for this tip come through to bunq, and be added to your payment amount.
🍺 How much does a 0.5L beer cost?
€4,50
🍽 How much does an average meal cost?
€13,00
🚨 What’s the emergency number?
911
🔌 What type of plug do they use?
This one! It’s the standard American plug.
🚗 What side of the road do they drive on?
They drive on the right side of the road here.
🗺 How do I navigate my way around?
Google and Apple Maps both work well in the US.
Otherwise, we recommend Rome2Rio as the best way to find out how to get anywhere. It even tells you the cost of each option. 🙌
👀 Any other good tips?
- If you're asked for a ZIP code while paying at a petrol pump, try 99999. Sometimes this still won't work and you'll have to prepay inside.
- If you're buying a subway ticket in NYC and you need a ZIP code, use 10001 or 99999.
Travel Perks
🎢 Visit famous attractions with 10% off
We've partnered with Tiqets to bring you discounts on attraction tickets in United States of America 🇺🇸. To get your discount, simply follow the link here and use our coupon code BUNQTIQETS10 at checkout. That's it! 🎊
Travel hands-free with a 20% discount on Stasher
Our partnership with Stasher will allow you to enjoy your destination to the fullest without having to worry about your luggage. You’ll be able to drop off your bags at trusted shops and hotels in the USA with a 20% discount through this link 👌🏻.
If you've been to United States of America 🇺🇸 share your experience! The following would be really useful for other bunqers to know:
- Which ATMs are free to use?
- What card should I use and where?
- Any other info you think may be useful.
Share your experience with us in the comments below! 🌈 👇
