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Organize a road trip in the United States

Passport and ESTA

First thing to do before leaving for the adventure of your dreams in the United States:check that you are in possession of a biometric or electronic passport and its expiry date. As nationals of a member country of the European Union, you are exempt from visa requirements for tourist stays of less than three months. However, you must obtain an ESTA electronic travel authorization at least 72 hours before your departure. Valid for two years, it can be obtained in less than 48 hours and costs $14.

A road trip by car or van?

Generally speaking, car rental rates in the United States are quite cheap. A search on the internet will allow you to compare prices, but do not neglect the comfort of the car. It must be able to handle the hundreds – even thousands – of kilometers that you will cover without causing you a lumbago. You can also opt for renting a van or a combi. Admittedly, the price will be higher than that of a car, but you will save on accommodation by sleeping in your vehicle. In any case, it will be the opportunity to drive an automatic car on mythical roads such as the famous Route 66!

Where to stay in the United States?

There are plenty of solutions for finding accommodation in the United States, the country of the road trip par excellence! You can choose motels on the side of the road for 60 dollars a night for two, sleep with locals, go couchsurfing or even go camping (ideal if you have decided to rent a van). Everything will be a question of budget, but also of location. Whether you are in the heart of a city or in the middle of the desert, you will have to adapt. But don't worry, there are motels everywhere. Even in the most remote areas of the country.