Heading to the USA from Canada and still worry about the necessary things to prepare. Here is everything you need to know: passport, mobile data, and budgeting. Let’s explore!

How to travel from Canada to USA

I. Passport and visa are the must

1. Passport requirements for Canadian citizens

To prepare for the trip, visitors should know the requirements for Canadian citizens traveling to the US by different modes of transport.

Mode of Transport Age Group Required Documents
By Plane All ages Valid passport
By Car, Boat, Ferry
 Adults (16+) Valid passport
NEXUS card
Enhanced driver’s license (EDL)
Enhanced identification card (EIC), or FAST card
Children (<16) Birth certificate or other proof of Canadian citizenship

2. Visa requirements for non-Canadian citizens residing in Canada

Non-Canadian citizens living in Canada generally need a visa to enter the United States, however, visitors of countries in the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) do not need it. Without a visa, they can travel to the U.S. for tourism or business for up to 90 days.

Here are the steps to apply for a US visa:

  • Fill out the DS-160 form online
  • Pay the fee
  • Book an interview at a US embassy
  • Go to the interview with your documents

usa passport and visa

3. Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) for certain travelers

Canadian citizens do not need an eTA to enter the United States, but lawful permanent residents of the U.S. (Green Card holders) need an eTA if they travel to or transit through Canada by air. Retain travelers who are visa-exempt and are transiting through Canada to the U.S. also need an eTA.

To apply for an eTA, you will need:

  1. A valid passport from a visa-exempt country.
  2. A valid email address.
  3. A credit card to pay the $7 application fee.

Applications for an eTA are made online through the official Canadian government website and are usually processed within minutes, although some applications may take several days to process if additional documentation is required.

II. How to stay connected in the USA

1. Local SIM Cards

Using a local SIM card is the most cost-effective way to stay connected in the USAM. Local SIM cards offer cheaper data rates and more affordable call/text packages compared to other connectivity options such as roaming. USA visitors may also get better coverage and faster internet speeds by using the US network directly. 

Note: Your phone needs to be unlocked and compatible with US networks.

local sim card in usa

Here are some US Mobile Networks:

  • AT&T: Strong coverage, data rollover, and 5G access.
  • Verizon: Best for rural areas, and includes streaming services.
  • T-Mobile: Great urban coverage, international roaming, and Netflix.
  • Sprint: Improved coverage with T-Mobile, perks like Hulu and Tidal.

2. Using USA eSIMs

In the digital era, using eSIM is more and more popular with visitors due to its conveniences. Here’s why: 

  • Convenience & flexibility: Using eSIM saves time and inconveniences cause visitors don’t need to swap into a new physical SIM card. Moreover, tourists can buy eSIM online before arrival at
  • Cost-effective: If you plan on using data during your USA travel, an eSIM can save your data budget on roaming fees.
  • Diverse options: USA tourists can choose from multiple plans to choose the best suits for their needs and budget and trip length.

USA esim

III. Where to buy USA eSIM?

Traveling to the USA and looking for a place to buy USA eSIM. Here is a table comparing many US eSIM providers in terms of their plans:

Provider Coverage Plans Special Features
esimusa.net Nationwide coverage on T-Mobile, AT&T, Verizon USA Canada eSIM plan for 7, 12, 15, 20, 30 days. Unlimited data, easy activation, 24/7 support. with diverse plans.
GigSky Good coverage through multiple networks – $4.49 for 1GB (7 days)
– $15.99 for 5GB (30 days)		 Multiple network access, flexible data plans
Airalo Broad coverage throughout the USA – $5 for 1GB (7 days)
– $20 for 5GB (30 days)		 Affordable pricing, easy activation
Truphone Reliable global coverage – $15 for 1GB (30 days)
– $45 for 5GB (30 days)		 Suitable for frequent international travelers

Budgeting for USA eSIM

To choose the best USA eSIM, you should consider your trip duration and your own needs in using data, here are some general recommendations:

  • For short trips (up to 7 days): esimusa.net is a great choice for travelers needing a small amount of data for a brief period
  • For medium-term trips (8-15 days): Airalo is great for those who need a bit more data
  • For long-term trips (Over 15 days): GigSky is recommended for those who need substantial data and reliable service for an extended period

IV. Best time to visit

  1. Spring (March-May)

Spring in the USA is often mild and pleasant, suitable for visiting:

  • Washington D.C.: Visit during the Cherry Blossom Festival, visit the National Mall and Smithsonian Museums.
  • California: Attend the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival in April
  • Florida: Enjoy the beaches in Miami and go to National Park.
  • Texas: Visit Austin and San Antonio

2. Summer (June-August)

In summer, it can be warm or hot depending on different places, here are some recommendations:

  • New York City: Central Park, Times Square, and the Statue of Liberty
  • Chicago: Lollapalooza music festival 
  • Nevada: Visit Las Vegas
  • California: Drive along the Pacific Coast Highway, visit Los Angeles and San Diego
  • Oregon and Washington: Explore Portland and Seattle

3. Fall (September – November)

Fall in the US is often cool and comfortable, and here are places you can visit during fall:

  • New England: Vermont, New Hampshire, and Massachusetts
  • Colorado: Visit Rocky Mountain National Park and Aspen 
  • California: Travel the Pacific Coast Highway, explore Big Sur and Napa Valley
  • Tennessee: Explore the Great Smoky Mountains 
  • Virginia: Discover Shenandoah National Park

4. Winter (December – February)

Winter is very cold in the northern states, which is great for winter sports, but if you want to enjoy milder weather, you can visit some southern states: 

  • New York City: go to holiday displays at Rockefeller Center
  • Utah: Ski in Park City, visit Salt Lake City, or you can attend the Sundance Film Festival.
  • Florida: You can go to Miami or Orlando and visit the Everglades National Park if you want to enjoy the warm winter.

V. Best Things to Do in the USA

  1. Statue of Liberty

his statue is the representation of liberty, and democracy but also the friendship between America and France. Once you get there, these are some things you can do:

  • A ferry ride from Battery Park to Liberty Island should be taken.
  • Go up the crown for a splendid view of New York State, but you have to book a ticket in advance
  1. Road to Hana (Hana Highway)

Hana Highway often called The Road to Hana is a fifty-plus-mile curved drive along Maui northeast and it is most popular for its awesome scenic views, deep rainforest, and waterfalls. Here are a few things you can do there:

  • Stop at Twin Falls, Wailua Falls, and the Seven Sacred Pools at Ohe’o Gulch.
  • Visit black sand beaches like Waianapanapa State Park and the red sand beach of Kaihalulu.
  • Explore trails like the Pipiwai Trail leading to Waimoku Falls.
  • Try the local food stands, fresh tropical fruits, and Hawaiian cuisine.
  1. French Quarter

The French Quarter or Vieux Carré is the oldest neighborhood in New Orleans, and it is famous for its lively nightlife, historic buildings and unique cultural heritage.

  • Enjoy the bars, jazz clubs, and street performers on Bourbon Street
  • Visit the historic square featuring St. Louis Cathedral and artists selling their work.
  • Enjoy a beignet and coffee at Café du Monde 
  1. Golden Gate Bridge

Golden Gate Bridge – the bridge that links San Francisco to the neighboring Marin County is arguably among the most photographed bridges in the world; representing the city.

  • Visit viewpoints like Fort Point and Battery Spencer 
  • Explore nearby Golden Gate Park with attractions like the Japanese Tea Garden and the de Young Museum.
  • Visit the charming town of Sausalito

VI. Money and budget

To make sure you’ll have a great time in the USA, you should plan the expected budget for your trip. Here is a table providing you with expected costs in a day for a person: 

Expense Type Expected Daily Cost Range Details
Accommodation $50 – $100 Budget motels, hostels (shared rooms), Airbnb (shared spaces), mid-range hotels (shared costs).
Transportation $20 – $50 Public transport, car rentals (shared costs), flights, and ride-sharing services.
Food $15 – $30 Self-catering, casual dining, and dining at mid to high-end restaurants.
Activities $15 – $45 Free or low-cost attractions, paid attractions, and VIP tours.
Travel Insurance $3.50 – $10.50 Basic to comprehensive and premium coverage.
Others $7.50 – $15 Tips, souvenirs, and unexpected expenses.
Total $111 – $250.50 Total estimated daily cost range per person.

VII. Conclusion

That was all about how to travel from Canada to the USA, hope this guide helps you with the preparation for the trip. And we also hope you’ll have the best trip ever in the US.