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Rules for travelling to the USA from the UK explained: tests, vaccines and more

By Sarah James

The US eased travel restrictions for visitors from the UK in November 2021, with rules around testing eased in June 2022. Find out what all this means for your trip.

Can I travel to the USA?

Yes. Since November 2021, international travellers from the UK have been able to visit the USA. Between November 2021 and May 2023, this was on the condition that travellers were fully vaccinated. We were on the first flight out in early November 2021, so have first-hand experience of the process.

What Covid tests do I need to travel to the USA?

As of June 2022, the requirement for air travellers to show proof of a negative test to enter the USA has been dropped.

"We are able to take this step because of the tremendous progress we've made in our fight against the virus. We have made lifesaving vaccines and treatments widely available and these tools are working to prevent serious illness and death, and are effective against the prevalent variants circulating in the US and around the world," a senior official said in a statement.

Do I need to be vaccinated to go to the USA?

At the time of writing (2 May 2023), yes – most international air travellers need to show proof of being fully vaccinated to enter the USA. Any vaccine approved for use by the World Health Organisation or by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) will be accepted, including AstraZeneca, Moderna, Pfizer-BioNTech and others. The final vaccine dose must have been administered at least 14 days before travelling.

From 11 May 2023, the US will end the vaccination requirements for interntational travellers. This is when the coronavirus public health emergency ends.

Can unvaccinated people travel to the USA?

Until 11 May, to enter the USA unvaccinated you must have been granted an exception or be a US Citizen, US National, or US Lawful Permanent Resident. You can find out if you qualify as an exception to the rules by reading the list outlined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) .

After 11 May, you don't need to be vaccinated to travel to the USA.

Do I need to wear a face mask in the USA?

Rules on wearing masks differ in each state and in different settings, so it's important to check before you travel, however there are currently no states requiring people to wear masks in public spaces. You may be required to wear a mask in certain settings, such as healthcare facilities.

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USA travel advice

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USA travel alerts

There are currently no travel alerts - You're good to go!

Please check the travel advice for all countries in your itinerary .

Entry requirements

Please make sure you check all the US entry requirements that apply to you before heading to the airport. UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) US travel advice is here .

Good news – for all customers arriving by air to the USA, including foreign nationals, effective 12 May 2023 there is no requirement to show proof of Covid-19 vaccination or complete an attestation form.

If eligible under the US Visa Waiver Program, you’ll need to apply and obtain an ESTA for travel .

For more information, including other Visa types please visit the US Department of State website.

Your passport must be valid for the duration of your stay.

USA and Canada - Mobile Passport Control:

If you are an American or Canadian citizen you can download the Mobile Passport Control (MPC) app to create a profile.

This will enable you to submit/upload passport information on arrival into the USA. You will then receive a QR code, and this will significantly speed up your journey through US immigration at selected airports.

Please be sure to check that your destination airport is supported by MPC.

You can download the MPC app here:  https://www.cbp.gov/travel/us-citizens/mobile-passport-control .

Face masks are a personal choice for our customers and people travelling in either direction between the UK and the United States.

We encourage everyone to be respectful of fellow passengers’ mask preferences, with masks still available for those wishing to wear them.

Helpful links

International travel guidance from the  US Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO)  advice for the United States

US Embassy in the UK  travel and visa FAQs

Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA)  application

Airport guides

Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL)

Boston Logan International Airport (BOS)

Harry Reid International Airport (LAS)

Los Angeles

Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)

Miami International Airport (MIA)      

John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)

Orlando International Airport (MCO)

San Francisco

San Francisco International Airport (SFO)

Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA)

Tampa International Airport (TPA)

Washington DC

Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD)

Transportation Security Administration (TSA) screening and US security

Passenger screening and us security.

The US Transport Security Administration (TSA) screens all baggage going through commercial US airports, for security reasons.

When flying to or from the US you may notice your baggage has been opened after it was checked in.

When this happens, a notice will be placed inside your bag telling you that it was opened for inspection by a TSA official, and your bag will be resealed with a tamper evident label.

Locking your check in bags

You should always make sure your bags are securely locked before checking them in. The TSA recommends you leave your bags unlocked to make them easier to search, but we disagree with this policy.

You can buy special TSA-approved locks, which can be opened by security officials with a master key. The locks can be bought from luggage shops at most airports.

Please be aware that the TSA has the right to break into your locked baggage, which can cause damage if you're not using the TSA-approved locks.

Loss or damage of items during TSA screening

If there is any damage or loss of items incurred during the TSA’s screening process you should make a claim on your insurance.

You can also contact the TSA Consumer Response Centre on 1-866-289-9673, where your case will be assessed on an individual basis. Further information is available on the TSA website at www.tsa.gov .

Baggage security screening in the US

This section tells you about US passenger security screening, and what to do if you've experienced difficulties when flying to or from the US in the past.

In order to ensure security on flights into the US, the US Transportation Security Administration (TSA) screens passenger information for all travellers entering the country.

When you give us your Advance Passenger Information (API) for a flight to the US, your full name, date of birth and gender will be supplied to the TSA for watch-list screening. Find out more about this process on the TSA website .

How to make an enquiry when you have API problems with flying to and from the US

If you've experienced difficulties when flying to or from the US in the past, it may be the case you share the name of someone on the US government’s ‘no fly list’, or there may be another issue with your records.

If this is the case you can apply for a ‘redress number’ from the Department of Homeland Security’s Traveller Redress Inquiry Program (DHS TRIP). This number may help prevent problems in the future.

Contact us  to add your redress number to future bookings with us, so we'll have it as part of your Advance Passenger Information.

TSA pre-check

This section explains what TSA Pre✓ and Global Entry are, who is eligible to use them, and how they can apply.

The US Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has developed a pre-screening process called TSA Pre✓. This allows qualifying travellers, including Virgin Atlantic passengers, to enjoy faster security screening and use dedicated TSA Pre✓ lanes at participating US airports.

With TSA Pre✓, you don't need to remove shoes, light jackets or belts when you go through security. Compliant liquids and laptops can stay in your hand luggage as well.

UK nationals can use TSA Pre✓ by joining the Global Entry programme , which also allows a faster entry through US immigration on arrival.

Who can use TSA Pre✓ at the airport?

Membership of the TSA Pre✓ programme itself is to US citizens and lawful permanent residents.

Citizens of other countries, including the UK, can join the Global Entry programme , which allows use of the TSA Pre✓ lanes at the airport.

The Global Entry programme, for non-US citizens

Global Entry is a U.S. Customs and Border Protection 'Trusted Traveler' programme for non-US citizens, including UK passport holders. It helps you get through customs and immigration more quickly when you arrive in the US at certain airports , by using automated kiosks.

You will also be able to use the faster TSA Pre✓ security lanes, if they are in operation at your airport.

To join Global Entry, you will need to apply and undergo a background check and interview. There is a non-refundable application fee, currently $100.

Applying for TSA Pre✓ and the Global Entry programme

The application process for TSA Pre✓ or Global Entry involves a background check by the TSA. This includes taking your fingerprints and verifying your identity to check your criminal history, legal status, and other intelligence-related information.

You will also need to have an in-person interview at a US airport. We recommend you sign up for an interview ahead of time, so you can meet with a TSA official when you're next in a participating US airport.

Apply for TSA Pre✓

(US citizens and lawful permanent residents only)

Apply for Global Entry

(For citizens of other countries, including the UK)

How to use TSA Pre✓ or Global Entry

Once your application for TSA Pre✓ or Global Entry has been approved, you'll be issued with a Known Traveler Number (KTN).

You should add this number to your booking, via My booking , at least 72 hours before you fly. A TSA Pre✓ symbol should appear on your boarding pass, and you'll be allowed to enter the faster security lanes at the airport.

If you have a connecting flight on another airline, including our partner Delta Air Lines, you'll also need to add your Known Traveller Number (KTN) to your booking with them.

Global Entry members arriving in the US enter dedicated kiosks, scan their passport or U.S. permanent resident card, have their fingerprints checked and complete a customs declaration. They can then get their bags and leave the airport.

Additional information

The TSA authorises passengers for expedited screening, not Virgin Atlantic. Random and unpredictable security measures are incorporated throughout US airports, and no passengers are guaranteed expedited screening.

Not all US airports currently offer TSA Pre✓ , including some that Virgin Atlantic fly from.

Children aged 12 and under can accompany an eligible traveller through TSA Pre✓.

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Travel blog

What to Expect: Everything You Need to Know for USA Travel

Published 29 November 2021

Alexandra Cronin (Gregg)

UK Content & Social Lead

[All information correct at the time of writing. For the most up-to-date information on travel to the USA, please visit our Help Centre .]

The States are finally welcoming fully vaccinated travellers back post-pandemic! Best of all, we’ve already been across the pond to work out what’s changed, and what’s not, so you can plan your all-American holiday with all the facts at your fingertips. From crucial know before you go information, to in-destination tips and post-trip requirements, our expert Alex covers everything you need to know:

New York City from SUMMIT - (image: Alexandra Cronin)

USA Travel: Know Before You Go

When planning your trip to the USA post-pandemic, there are a few things to sort after you've booked. Having experienced it first-hand on a recent trip to  New York City , I can honestly say it’s not as complicated as it seems, but I was certainly helped a lot by my Travel Consultant. It’s also not as expensive as I thought it would be, with lateral flow testing accepted before you fly. Here’s what you need to know:

This isn’t a new requirement, but still a crucial one. It’s recommended that you  complete your ESTA   at least  72 hours prior to your trip as it can take a few days to be approved. For me, I always sort this as soon as I know I’m going away. These visa waivers last two years and can be used for multiple trips, at a cost of US$14pp (around £10.50).

Vaccination

Currently, visitors are only permitted to enter the USA if they’ve been double jabbed – except under special circumstances. You will need to have had your second dose at least 14 days before you travel, and all WHO-recognised providers (including Astra-Zeneca, Pfizer-Biotech, Moderna and the single-shot vaccine from Johnson & Johnson) are accepted. You can use your COVID vaccination details from the  NHS App ; be sure to check you’ve downloaded the version for travel, and not for domestic use.

My Qured pre-departure testing kit - (image: Alexandra Cronin)

Travellers to the USA must take a supervised pre-departure COVID test in the 24 hours before travel. Tests can either be PCR or rapid antigen/lateral flow, and must be supervised. As I don’t live near any clinics, I opted to use our partners at  Qured Health , who do a video consult with a Health Advisor for an extra £10.

The whole process was extremely convenient – I simply ordered my Fit to Fly lateral flow test (with video) via the Qured website along with my day 2 test (more on that later), and the former arrived in the post just a couple of days later. Qured sent me a unique ID for my test via email, which I was able to use to book a video appointment on their website. There were plenty of time slots available, so I had no trouble arranging this.

I logged into the chatroom about 10 minutes before my appointment and was soon joined by a live consultant, who took me through the process for undertaking my test before observing me do so. I can’t say it’s a particularly dignified experience having someone watch you shove a swab up your nose, however my advisor was friendly, and made me feel at ease. The call only lasted about 5-10 minutes and, after my 15-minute timer had run out, I was able to take a picture of my negative test (along with my ID) and upload it to the Qured website. Around an hour later, I received a medical certificate confirming my result.

When to Complete Attestation Form?

If you're fully vaccinated, there is now no need to complete a USA  attestation form .

Contact Tracing

When completing your API (Advanced Passenger Information) online with your airline, you’ll be expected to fill out a few extra details around where you’ll be staying in the USA. This can be completed 72 hours before you fly and must be done prior to check-in.

British Airways check-in at Heathrow Terminal 5 - (image: Alexandra Cronin)

At the Airport

Some airlines allow you to upload all your documents in advance of your trip, so you can check-in online and avoid any potentially lengthy queues at the airport. As mentioned, I flew with  British Airways  who, along with  American Airlines , have partnered with the  VeriFLY  app, where you can upload any relevant documentation, including your NHS COVID Pass. Upon doing so, you receive a pre-authorisation which also gets sent to the airline. I did just this, and it was a breeze. I checked in online and was told my documents may need to be checked before security, so I printed off everything – from testing to proof of vaccination – just in case. However, I needn’t have worried: I simply showed the app to staff at the airport and was able to proceed.

VeriFLY signage at Heathrow Terminal 5 - (image: Alexandra Cronin)

If you’d rather check-in at the airport, I highly recommend arriving  at least  three hours before your flight. Thankfully there wasn’t much of a queue when I reached Heathrow, but I’d arrived with plenty of time to spare in case my documents required any further scrutiny.

Masks are recommended in the airport terminal and may be mandatory on the plane (airline dependant; except when eating or drinking). Rules around what constitutes a face-covering vary from airline to airline, but typically it should be a double thickness mask without a vent. Shields on their own are not generally permitted. Crew onboard will also be wearing masks, and undertaking extra cleaning measures throughout the cabins.

Finally, it’s also worth noting that the old US landing cards seem to have been scrapped in lieu of the contract tracing information, meaning you’ll have one less thing to worry about while you’re in the air.

Mask signage - (image: Alexandra Cronin)

Holidays in the USA

It felt liberating to be back in the  USA , not to mention abroad at all! Having been to New York a few times, I felt the overall experience was much the same; there were fewer crowds, but the cosmopolitan, upbeat buzz remained. I’d expect nothing less from the City That Never Sleeps!

Airport Arrival

On arrival at JFK, I found the immigration process to be very smooth. At the border, you’ll be asked all the same questions as you were asked pre-pandemic – the purpose of your stay and how long you’re planning to be there. Your passport will be checked and, all being well, you’ll be sent on your way. I didn’t need to show my COVID documentation, as it’s expected that your airline will have already vetted this before you board in the UK. Airlines who don’t check this can be fined, so expect them to be vigorous.

Masks are mandatory on NYC public transport - (image: Alexandra Cronin)

Mask Wearing

Even outdoors in New York, quite a few people were wearing masks. Indoors, face coverings are commended when visiting attractions, in your hotel reception and in restaurants (except when you’re eating of course!). At the time of my visit (Nov 2021) I managed to squeeze in a Broadway show, and staff were actively walking around with signs telling people to put their ‘masks up’. This made me feel exceptionally safe during my trip, especially in crowded areas.

Proof of Vaccination

“Vaccine passports” were a big thing when I travelled – certainly in the city. I needed to show my proof of vaccination at all attractions and whenever I wanted to dine inside. Since 7th March 2022, however, this requirement has been relaxed. 

You have to show proof of vaccination to dine inside in Manhattan - (image: Alexandra Cronin)

In New York, I downloaded the  NYC COVID App . Within this, I was able to upload screenshots of my proof of vaccination (an offline version I downloaded from the NHS app), my negative test certificate, and my ID. This was widely accepted throughout the city, as well as being a convenient way to have all your documents stored in one place. Again, COVID pass requirements were relaxed on 7th March 2022, so this may no longer be necessary when you travel.

Recommended Testing

As mentioned, it’s recommended that adults visiting the USA take another COVID test 3-5 days after they arrive, however this is not currently mandatory. I was only in New York for a couple of days, so I didn’t do this, but if you did want to for peace of mind, there are test centres readily available. Indeed, in Manhattan they had pop-up testing tents on the streets!

COVID testing tents in New York City - (image: Alexandra Cronin)

Returning to England from the USA

After a whirlwind couple of days in the Big Apple, I was all set to return to England. I was flying home with American Airlines, so again was able to use the VeriFLY app to upload all my documents in advance. I checked-in for my flight the day before and was able to download my boarding pass and – being hand luggage only – head straight for security. Like in the UK, masks were mandatory in the airport.

As mentioned above, I was able to once again use the VeriFLY app to upload my proof of vaccination. However, to reiterate for the purposes of this article, unvaccinated travellers are not currently permitted entry into the USA, except under special, pre-authorised circumstances.

UK's Passenger Locator Form

Passenger Locator Form

England’s  Passenger Locator Form  (PLF) is no longer in use, and there is no requirement to fill this out before returning to the UK.

VeriFLY app - (image: Alexandra Cronin)

I booked my day 2 test with Qured at the same time as my pre-departure test and it arrived the day I landed back in the UK. Despite being double-jabbed, at the time of travel I had to take a lateral flow test for my return to the UK, which followed the same process as my pre-departure test, but without the video consult.  As of 11th February 2022, travellers no longer need to take a day 2 test on their return to the UK.  If you'd like to arrange a test for peace of mind or work purposes, Flight Centre offers a unique 10% discount code when using  Qured  – available from your Travel Consultant.

View from the High Line, NYC - (image: Alexandra Cronin)

Rules for Children

If you’re  travelling with little ones in tow , the rules may differ slightly for them. In summary, they’ll need to adhere to the following:

• Vaccination : Children under the age of 18 are currently exempt from the vaccination rules.
• Masks : On some flights, children over the age of two years are required to wear a mask. Check with your Travel Consultant and/or airline.

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Transatlantic connections: how many British Airways flights to the US will return?

Plane talk: charleston and pittsburgh are among the british airways us routes that have fallen off the map, article bookmarked.

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How gratifying to see British Airways operating weekly between Heathrow and two islands in the mid-Atlantic Azores next summer – the Portuguese islands comprise a magical archipelago.

Yet those flights will not be continuing west. I suspect BA customers on either side of the Atlantic are more interested in whether the full complement of links will return when the coronavirus pandemic is finally deemed to be over.

The “full year results announcement” from IAG is dated 28 February 2020, but it seems from a different age.

“Quarter 4 was strong with an operating profit of €765m,” reported the British Airways parent company. That works out at more than £7m per day – or, if you prefer, £5,000 per minute.

The announcement also talked of “new routes such as London Heathrow to Charleston [and] Pittsburgh”.

Eighteen months on, and the world of aviation – and BA’s place in it – looks unrecognisable. The “billion-dollar” route that British Airways had created on the link between London Heathrow and New York JFK has vanished, with far fewer flights each day between the two airports, and business travel dried to a trickle. A presidential proclamation means that the handful of passengers on board are almost all Americans.

But with Joe Biden promising to open up the US at last in November to British and other European travellers, the ban is soon to end – at least for those of us lucky enough to be double-jabbed.

The inexplicable policy has caused plenty of short-term harm to airlines and their passengers. But how will the future look? Not so much in terms of frequency (a dozen BA flights a day between LHR and JFK seems a long way off) but in breadth. In other words: are all those US routes coming back?

You and I can dash off a top 10 of locations which are bound to be on the Terminal 5 destinations screens: Boston, New York JFK, Washington Dulles, Atlanta, Miami, Dallas, Houston, Chicago, San Francisco and Los Angeles.

It is the second tier that is susceptible to suspension, which could be just for a season – or “indefinitely”, signifying little chance of a rapid return. I have checked the schedules for 4 December this year, by which stage the travel ban will be well over. Some of the eastern links I thought might be in doubt are still there – Philadelphia, Baltimore and Tampa – but Newark is missing.

For many New York-bound travellers, the route is handier than JFK, but BA’s partner American offers few onward connections.

Charleston and Pittsburgh, as celebrated in that IAG results announcement, have disappeared. They were both brave ventures, using the Boeing 787 to fill in gaps in the network and serve cities that did not have a heavy demand from business travellers. So you might venture, given the collapse in corporate travel, that they should be kept on. That appears to be the case with Nashville, which is still going through the winter – though not daily.

Further west, Denver, Phoenix and Seattle remain on the books, but Austin, San Diego and San Jose have been shelved, for now at least. They are all routes that were heavily dependent on business travel.

Sean Moulton, the airline schedule analyst, says: “Joe Biden’s announcement will benefit BA and Virgin most from the UK, not just in direct connectivity but also feeding their hub at Heathrow.

“The announcement brings some certainty to the market, which will help improve the visiting friends and relatives [VFR] and leisure sectors.

“But it is currently uncertain if and when the business market will return.”

The Azores adventure – to a location with almost zero business travel – suggests British Airways shares that uncertainty.

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Travel across the USA with British Airways and American Airlines This Year

The year ahead looks set to be one for adventure and with a country as vast as the USA you needn’t look much further. With its iconic cityscapes, thrill-inducing theme parks, beautiful Pacific and Atlantic coastal spots and awe-inspiring scenery, you’ll find what you’re looking for amongst its 50 states.

We’ve picked out our favourite areas to visit, but thanks to American Airlines’ extensive network of onward flights across the USA, these key hubs may merely be starting points in your stateside adventure.

Between British Airways and American Airlines, you can fly direct to four Californian destinations – Los Angeles and San Diego (just over 11 hours away) and San Francisco and San Jose (10 and a half hours away) – from London, putting the whole of this vast and diverse state within easy reach, from its cities and theme parks to its vineyards, national parks and beaches. Convenient flight times make for a fuss-free experience.

Dreamy white-sand beaches, year-round sunshine and fantastic wildlife encounters… And that’s before you’ve even mentioned Orlando and its world-leading theme parks. Florida has fun and natural wonders in spades. Head to one of the many fantastic seaside resorts of the Gulf coast, such as St Petersburg, Sarasota, Fort Myers, or Sanibel and the Captiva islands.

British Airways and American Airlines operates flights direct to Miami from London Heathrow while British Airways operates further direct routes to Orlando and Tampa, so you could even make your trip a multi-centre, flying out of a different airport.

The Deep South

This storied collection of states is one that has charmed countless visitors over the years and keeps them coming back for more, with its world-class music, delicious dining and sites depicting the area’s tumultuous history. Flying into both Nashville and New Orleans, from London Heathrow, British Airways offers the perfect starting point for an unforgettable road trip encompassing the hypnotic jazz music of New Orleans, Memphis’ colourful Beale Street and the Country Music Hall of Fame in Nashville amongst many other sites.

If you’re looking to an extra step to your adventure, continue on to Charlotte to visit Carowinds theme park and the NASCAR Hall of Fame, before boarding your direct flight home with American Airlines.

Canary-yellow taxi cabs, the Statue of Liberty, the Chrysler Building, Central Park… The sheer number of icons squeezed onto this tiny spit of land make it a destination you’ll never tire of, no matter how many times you return. And there are more reasons than ever to visit New York this year or next – lots of new alfresco dining spaces and a more open-air culture, whale-watching boats direct from Manhattan, and even a new island park, Little Island on the Hudson River in the Meatpacking District.

Thanks to direct flights with British Airways and American Airlines from London Heathrow taking just 7.5 hours, you could even visit New York city on a long weekend. If, however, you have a little more time to play with, make the drive south to Philadelphia where you’ll be able to catch a direct flight back to the UK with American Airlines, after you’ve visited Independence Hall, tasted the famous cheese steak and ran up the stairs to the Museum of Art like Rocky Balboa.

Cabin Options

Economy and premium economy.

British Airways’ World Traveller seats allow you to fly with hand baggage only or to pay extra for a 23kg checked baggage allowance and free seat selection 24 hours before you fly. Or step up to World Traveller Plus for more legroom, a smaller cabin with greater privacy, cushions, blankets, eye masks, toothbrush and toothpaste, and noise-reducing headphones.

Similarly, American Airlines’ Main Cabin allows guests to unwind with free entertainment and snacks, and the option to purchase Wi-Fi during the flight. In Premium Economy, passengers get the added benefit of wider seats with added leg room and extendable foot and head rests, as well as included Wi-Fi and power outlets and USB ports in every seat.

British Airways’ Club World cabin adds to the above fully flat beds for total comfort, dining menus designed by top chefs and fast-tracking through the airport. Meanwhile, Flagship® Business delivers an elevated experience for American Airlines passengers, with priority boarding, check-in and security at the airport.

British Airways’ top class adds further luxuries including fully flat beds within private suites combining British heritage with contemporary design, and exclusive lounge and spa access on the ground. All passengers in the wider London area can also pay an extra fee to have the exclusive AirPortr service pick up their bags and check them in.

Flying in first-class with American Airlines means experiencing their most exclusive and personalised service in Flagship® First where you’ll receive fine-dining experiences, private check-in and lounge access.

The ultimate Maldivian escape at RAAYA by Atmosphere

Debuting in the Maldives in the summer of 2023, RAAYA by Atmosphere is a new addition to the dynamic Atmosphere Core group, which already boasts eight beloved resorts in the Maldives and plans to expand into India, Sri Lanka, Nepal, and Bhutan. Grounded in its “Joy of Giving” philosophy of anticipating guests’ every need, Atmosphere Core resorts embody local spirit and celebrate each location's unique story through distinctive design, stunning natural settings, traditional hospitality rituals, and local cuisine.

Embrace adventure with Azamara’s summer sale

At Travel Counsellors, we are huge fans of Azamara’s award-winning and pioneering cruises for many reasons. Chief among them is that they offer guests more time in port than any other itineraries, with late nights and overnight stays in many destinations. Azamara’s boutique-style, award-winning cruise ships can visit smaller ports that larger ships cannot reach, and their carefully curated land programmes offer a fantastic choice of unique tours to complement your voyage.

Explore Asia’s hidden gems and culinary delights

The TV show "Race Across the World" is coming to its conclusion this week and the show has highlighted the sheer beauty of Asia. From the culinary delights of Japan to the serene beaches of Thailand, let's explore the vibrant destinations that stole the contestants and viewers hearts alike.

Find your personal Travel Counsellor

With more than 2,000 independent Travel Counsellors worldwide, let one of our professional and passionate experts tailor your perfect trip and look after you at every stage of your journey.

New travel deals for Amazon Prime members on cruises, rental cars, flights and more

These savings on travel come in time for any last-minute summer vacations.

Amazon Prime Day is fast approaching, and beyond viral beauty products or hot new kitchenware, the e-commerce giant is introducing savings on travel just in time for any last-minute summer vacations.

Amazon partnered with various travel companies, including Southwest Airlines, Viator, Turo, Carnival, and others, to give Prime members early access to price cuts on travel packages, car rentals, and cruises.

In a similar move last summer fellow retail competitor Walmart partnered with Expedia to give Walmart+ members the ability to earn Walmart Cash by booking vacations.

"These travel deals are sort of an extra that they can offer their members," RetailMeNot editor Kristin McGrath told ABC News. "There are plenty of ways you can save and get discounts. These membership programs can just make it a little bit easier."

Amazon Prime travel deals and discounts for Prime Day

Save 10% on Viator travel experiences Save up to 30% off Avis car rentals and earn 10% back Up to 15% Sixt car rentals Book a Carnival Cruise for to 40% off Southwest Airlines get 50% off Rapids Rewards points

Editor’s Picks

Delta One Lounge debuts this week, here's a look at the premium experience

How gift cards from big box retailers could help save on expensive travel

It's not too late to book summer travel, these tips make it easier

Walmart+ travel deals.

The company offers discounts on fuel and travel, plus up to 20% back in Walmart Cash for booking through their portal during Walmart+ week.

Costco travel discounts and deals

The warehouse retailer's travel arm offers everyday savings on top-quality, brand-name vacations, hotels, cruises, and rental cars, exclusively for Costco members.

Teresita Nino has used Costco to book vacation packages and told ABC News how she saved on international deals.

"My last trip that we booked was to Saint Lucia and we ended up booking the airfare and the hotel -- I ended up saving about $700," Nino said of her experience using Costco. "Nine out of ten times is Costco Travel is always giving me a better deal overall than other travel companies."

Access to Costco's travel deals require a paid membership as an extra perk for customers.

"The travel savings are the cherry on top -- but it's not necessarily the most lucrative benefit," McGrath said. "In these membership programs, you have to take the value of membership as a whole rather than just joining to save on travel."

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Expect a record-breaking number of travelers on Fourth of July week: How to avoid traffic

• An estimated 70.9 million people will travel for the Fourth of July holiday, a record-breaking number.
• The most popular domestic destinations are Seattle, Orlando, Anchorage, Honolulu and Miami.
• The worst times to drive for 4th of July week are July 3 and 4 between 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.

If you’re one of the projected record-breaking 70.9 million travelers going on a Fourth of July trip, get ready to pack some patience. 

“With summer vacations in full swing and the flexibility of remote work, more Americans are taking extended trips around Independence Day,” said Paula Twidale, senior vice president of AAA Travel, in a statement. “We anticipate this July 4 week will be the busiest ever with an additional 5.7 million people traveling compared to 2019.”

Whether you’re going by airplane or car, traveler numbers are hitting historic highs. An estimated 5.74 million people will fly to their Independence Day destination, a 7% increase from 2023. (We can thank domestic airfare being slightly cheaper this year for that.)

This year, 2.8 million more people will travel by car than last year, for a total of 60.6 million travelers. According to AAA partner and rental car company Hertz, cities like Dallas, Los Angeles, Denver and San Francisco are showing the highest rental car demand. 

Here’s everything you need to know about Fourth of July travel. 

Learn more: Best travel insurance

Planning your summer trip? Where to go and how to save on summer vacations

What are the most popular destinations for Fourth of July week?

Many travelers are headed to the coast for their Independence Day trip, with states like Hawaii and Florida topping the list. With the best time for Alaskan cruises in full swing, cities like Seattle, Vancouver and Anchorage are popular among travelers. As expected, beloved European destinations like London and Rome earned spots on the list as well. 

Most popular domestic destinations:

• Orlando, Florida
• Anchorage, Alaska

Most popular international destinations:

• Vancouver, British Columbia

What are the best times to drive for Fourth of July week?

As is typical with holiday travel, the early bird will catch the worm, which means encountering the least traffic. Drivers should depart on their Independence Day road trips before noon on July 3 and 4. To return home, drivers should leave before 11 a.m. on July 7 and after 7 p.m. on July 8. 

What are the worst times to drive for Fourth of July week?

“Drivers in large metro areas can expect the worst traffic delays on Wednesday, July 3, as they leave town, and Sunday, July 7, as they return,” Bob Pishue, transportation analyst at INRIX, said in a statement. “Road trips over the holiday week could take up to 67% longer than normal.”

On July 3 and 4, drivers should avoid being on the road between 2 p.m. and 7 p.m., when traffic will be most congested. On Friday, July 5, the worst traffic will be between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. 

On Saturday, July 5, the worst traffic for travelers returning home will be between 10:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. The worst traffic is expected July 7, so drivers should avoid the road between 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. 

“Travelers should monitor 511 services, local news stations, and traffic apps for up-to-the-minute road conditions,” Pishue said.

Peak congestion times in major US cities

• Worst route: Birmingham to Atlanta via I-20 E
• Worst day: July 7
• Worst time: 6:30 p.m. 
• Estimated travel time: 3 hours, 36 minutes
• 42% increased travel time
• Worst route: Boston to Hyannis via Pilgrim Hwy S
• Worst day: July 4
• Worst time: 1:45 p.m.
• Estimated travel time: 1 hour, 51 minutes
• 31% increased travel time
• Worst route: Fort Collins to Denver via I-25 S
• Worst day: July 8
• Worst time: 2:45 p.m. 
• Estimated travel time: 1 hour, 37 minutes
• 56% increased travel time
• Worst route: San Antonio to Houston via I-10 E
• Worst day: July 6
• Worst time: 1:30 p.m. 
• Estimated travel time: 3 hours, 48 minutes
• 41% increased travel time

Los Angeles

• Worst route: Bakersfield to Los Angeles via I-5 S
• Worst time: 2:15 p.m. 
• Estimated travel time: 1 hour, 47 minutes
• 29% increased travel time
• Worst route: Jersey Shore to New York via Garden State Pkwy N
• Estimated travel time: 1 hour, 25 minutes
• 40% increased travel time

San Francisco

• Worst route: San Francisco to Monterey via Santa Cruz Hwy S
• Worst day: July 2
• Worst time: 5:45 p.m. 
• Estimated travel time: 2 hours, 31 minutes
• 19% increased travel time
• Worst route: Ellensburg to Seattle via I-90 E
• Worst time: 4:30 p.m. 
• Estimated travel time: 2 hours, 19 minutes
• 35% increased travel time

Washington, D.C.

• Worst route: Baltimore to Washington via Balt/Wash Pkwy S
• Worst time: 3:15 p.m. 
• Estimated travel time: 1 hours, 1 minute
• 67% increased travel time

Kathleen Wong is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Hawaii. You can reach her at [email protected] .

The Key Points at the top of this article were created with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and reviewed by a journalist before publication. No other parts of the article were generated using AI. Learn more .

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USA TODAY 10Best

From bus services to buffets, best wallet-friendly travel ideas

June 26, 2024 // By 10Best Editors

By 10Best Editors June 26, 2024

Travel doesn't have to be expensive. Some of the best attractions in the United States are completely free, and it's possible to find an inexpensive hotel room while still staying in style. Rental car? Skip it by visiting a walkable city.

To find the best wallet-friendly options, a panel of travel experts and USA TODAY 10Best editors selected their top picks in five budget travel categories, then readers voted for their favorites over four weeks — and the results are in.

Click on each category below to see the full winners list:

Advertisement Advertisement

Best Budget-Friendly Hotel Brand: Motel 6

Well-loved and easily recognized by those traveling the roadways of the United States, Motel 6 has made a name for itself by being clean, friendly, dependable, and most importantly, affordable. Expanded cable TV and pet-friendly rooms make this hotel a good choice for those looking to stay within their budget. Free coffee in the mornings makes getting up and going a pleasure.

Full list of winners: Best Budget-Friendly Hotel Brand »

Best Buffet Restaurant: Shady Maple Smorgasbord in East Earl, Pennsylvania

Shady Maple Smorgasbord, claiming to be "the largest buffet in America," serves delectable Pennsylvania Dutch dishes in East Earl, Pennsylvania. The well-prepared comfort food is offered on a 200-foot-long smorgasbord, and the space is designed to offer a cafeteria-style ambiance. A gift shop is open to visitors, and their birthday specials are popular.

Full list of winners: Best Buffet Restaurant »

Best Bus Service: Yankee Line

In operation for more than 45 years, Yankee Line serves the Northeast, from Boston to New York City. In addition, the company offers charter services for corporate events, school trips, and much more. Their fleet of custom-built coaches features free Wi-Fi, an onboard restroom, and power outlets.

Full list of winners: Best Bus Service »

Best Free Attraction: Loggerhead Marinelife Center in Juno Beach, Florida

Situated in Juno Beach, the Loggerhead Marinelife Center is focused on ocean and sea turtle conservation, and it’s free and open to the public each day. Since the goal is to rescue and return wildlife to their natural habitats, there may not be any resident sea turtles when people visit. However, there are always plenty of other sea creatures to observe, and volunteers are helpful and willing to answer questions from visitors.

Full list of winners: Best Free Attraction »

Most Walkable City to Visit: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Philadelphia is beloved for its cultural and historical attractions, and its walkability is appreciated by residents and visitors. Tourists would likely most enjoy strolling Center City — home to the historic Old City and gorgeous Rittenhouse Square neighborhoods.

Full list of winners: Most Walkable City to Visit »

Congratulations to all these winners! Remember to visit 10best.usatoday.com daily to vote in more Readers' Choice Awards.

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AAA Newsroom

Automotive, Travel, and Traffic Safety Information

Nearly 71 Million People Expected to Travel over July 4th Week

This year’s extended independence day forecast exceeds pre-pandemic numbers, sets new record.

WASHINGTON, DC (June 20, 2024) – AAA projects 70.9 million travelers will head 50 miles or more from home over the Independence Day holiday travel period*. For the first time, AAA looked at the entire July 4 th week, plus the Saturday before and the Sunday after the holiday. This year’s projected number of travelers for that time period is a 5% increase compared to 2023 and an 8% increase over 2019.

“With summer vacations in full swing and the flexibility of remote work, more Americans are taking extended trips around Independence Day,” said Paula Twidale, Senior Vice President of AAA Travel. “We anticipate this July 4 th week will be the busiest ever with an additional 5.7 million people traveling compared to 2019.”   

AAA projects a record 60.6 million people will travel by car over Independence Day week – that’s an additional 2.8 million travelers compared to last year. This year’s number also surpasses 2019 when 55.3 million people traveled by car over July 4 th week. AAA car rental partner Hertz says Dallas, Denver, Salt Lake City, Los Angeles, and San Francisco are the cities displaying the highest rental demand during the holiday week. The busiest pick-up days are projected to be Friday, June 28, Saturday, June 29, and Wednesday, July 3.   

Gas prices are lower than last year when the national average was $3.53. Pump prices will likely continue going down leading up to Independence Day.  At that point, they will likely level off and remain relatively stable until after Labor Day, similar to last year.  An important caveat is hurricane season – underway now – which could affect gas prices should a storm negatively impact Gulf Coast oil production and refining centers.  

The number of air travelers is also expected to set a new record. AAA projects 5.74 million people will fly to their July 4 th destinations. That’s an increase of nearly 7% compared to last year and a 12% increase over 2019. AAA booking data shows domestic airfare is 2% cheaper this Independence Day week compared to last year, and the average price for a domestic roundtrip ticket is $800. Airports will be packed throughout the week. AAA recommends arriving 2 hours early, reserving parking ahead of time, and traveling with carry-on luggage versus checked bags to save time and money.   

More than 4.6 million people are expected to travel by other modes of transportation, including buses, cruises, and trains. This category is seeing an increase of 9% compared to last year, but this year’s number is shy of 2019’s figure of 4.79 million. Cruising continues its remarkable post-pandemic comeback. This time of year, Alaska cruises are in high demand, making Seattle and Anchorage top domestic destinations. Cruise travelers are also finding deals this summer. With new ships coming onto the market – and going for a premium – some cruise lines have been offering targeted discounts to fill older inventory for remaining cabins.  

Best/Worst Times to Drive and Peak Congestion by Metro 

INRIX , a provider of transportation data and insights, says the worst times to travel by car before and on July 4 th are between 2pm and 7pm. Drivers should hit the road in the morning, and travelers returning on Monday, July 8 th should avoid rush hour traffic in the morning and afternoon.  

“Drivers in large metro areas can expect the worst traffic delays on Wednesday, July 3 rd , as they leave town, and Sunday, July 7th, as they return,” said Bob Pishue, transportation analyst at INRIX. “R oad trips over the holiday week could take up to 67% longer than normal. Travelers should monitor 511 services, local news stations, and traffic apps for up-to-the-minute road conditions.”  

Please note that the times listed below are for the time zone in which the metro is located.   

For example, Atlanta routes = ET and Los Angeles routes = PT.  

Source: INRIX  

  Top Destinations 

This July 4 th week, travelers are cooling off in the Pacific Northwest and Alaska – and by the ocean! Seattle, Vancouver, and Anchorage are top destinations because of the popularity of Alaska cruises this time of year. Beaches in South Florida, Honolulu, Punta Cana, and Barcelona are in high demand. Historical sites in European cities like London, Rome, Dublin, Paris, and Athens are also popular. The top 10 domestic and international destinations below are based on AAA booking data.  

Family Road Trip Checklist    

With road trips expected to set a new record this July 4 th week, AAA teamed up with Chicco to share safety tips for families with young children.  

• Check car seat fit. Before you hit the road, check your child’s weight and height to ensure they’re in the right seat and mode of use – especially when it comes to transitioning from rear to forward-facing. Children should remain rear-facing as long as possible for better protection of their head, neck, and spine in the event of a crash. If you are unsure which car seat is best for your child, Chicco offers a car seat comparison guide.    
• Double check car seat installation. Even if your car seat is already installed in the car, it’s worth checking everything is safe and secure. An easy at-home way to do this is with the “inch test.” Simply grab the seat at the car seat belt path and pull side to side and front to back. If it moves more than one inch in any direction, uninstall and start over until a secure fit is achieved. For any questions, utilize the car seat manual, QR codes, or online resources like those offered by Chicco.    
• Secure loose items in the car. Take time to organize and clean up your car before hitting the road. Storage organizers that secure to the back of the driver and passenger seats are simple solutions to make sure everything has a spot, especially loose items that can become projectiles in case of a sudden stop.  
• Be prepared for the unexpected. Pack an emergency kit with first-aid supplies, water, snacks, blankets, jumper cables, and flares. Make sure your phone is fully charged – and keep a charger in the car – to call AAA or request roadside assistance digitally if your battery dies, you lock yourself out, or you need a tow.   
• Map your route. Families with young children should plan for frequent and longer stops along the way. Map out your route ahead of time with AAA TripTik and browse hotels, restaurants, and other activities along the way on AAA Trip Canvas.  
• Bring entertainment. Make sure to place toys and books within reach to keep children entertained. If your kids use tablets or other electronics, make sure the devices are fully charged and pre-downloaded before leaving home. Another fun way to get the whole family excited for the road trip is to create a family playlist of everyone’s favorite songs!   

Holiday Forecast Methodology   

Travel Forecast    

In cooperation with AAA, S&P Global Market Intelligence (SPGMI) developed a unique methodology to forecast actual domestic travel volumes. The economic variables used to forecast travel for the current holiday are leveraged from SPGMI’s proprietary databases. These data include macroeconomic drivers such as employment, output, household net worth, asset prices, including stock indices, interest rates, housing market indicators, and variables related to travel and tourism, including gasoline prices, airline travel, and hotel stays. AAA and SPGMI have quantified holiday travel volumes going back to 2000.   

Historical travel volume estimates come from DK SHIFFLET’s TRAVEL PERFORMANCE/Monitor SM . The PERFORMANCE/Monitor SM is a comprehensive study measuring the travel behavior of U.S. residents. DK SHIFFLET contacts over 50,000 U.S. households each month to obtain detailed travel data, resulting in the unique ability to estimate visitor volume and spending, identify trends, and forecast U.S. travel behavior, all after the trips have been taken.  

The travel forecast is reported in person-trips. In particular, AAA and SPGMI forecast the total U.S. holiday travel volume and expected mode of transportation. The travel forecast presented in this report was prepared the week of May 27, 2024.   

Because AAA forecasts focus on domestic leisure travel only, comparisons to TSA passenger screening numbers should not be made. TSA data includes all passengers traveling on both domestic and international routes. Additionally, TSA screens passengers each time they enter secured areas of the airport, therefore each one-way trip is counted as a passenger tally. AAA focuses on person-trips, which include the full round-trip travel itinerary. As a result, direct comparisons of AAA forecast volumes and daily TSA screenings represent different factors.  

*Independence Day Holiday Travel Period   

For this forecast, the Independence Day holiday travel period is defined as the nine-day period from Saturday, June 29 to Sunday, July 7. Historically, the Independence Day holiday period included only one weekend. This is the first year the Independence Day holiday travel period is a longer timeframe with two weekends included.  

About AAA    

Started in 1902 by automotive enthusiasts who wanted to chart a path for better roads in America and advocate for safe mobility, AAA has transformed into one of North America’s largest membership organizations. Today, AAA provides roadside assistance, travel, discounts, financial and insurance services to enhance the life journey of 64 million members across North America, including 57 million in the United States. To learn more about all AAA has to offer or to become a member, visit AAA.com.   

About S&P Global   S&P Global (NYSE: SPGI) provides essential intelligence. We enable governments, businesses, and individuals with the right data, expertise, and connected technology so that they can make decisions with conviction. From helping our customers assess new investments to guiding them through ESG and energy transition across supply chains, we unlock new opportunities, solve challenges, and accelerate progress for the world. We are widely sought after by many of the world’s leading organizations to provide credit ratings, benchmarks, analytics, and workflow solutions in the global capital, commodity, and automotive markets. With every one of our offerings, we help the world’s leading organizations plan for tomorrow today. For more information, visit  www.spglobal.com .   

About DKSA    

DK SHIFFLET boasts the industry’s most complete database on U.S. resident travel both in the U.S. and worldwide. Data is collected monthly from a U.S. representative sample, adding over 60,000 traveling households annually, and is used daily by leading travel organizations and their strategic planning groups. DK SHIFFLET is an MMGY Global company.   

About INRIX     

Founded in 2004, INRIX pioneered intelligent mobility solutions by transforming big data from connected devices and vehicles into mobility insights. This revolutionary approach enabled INRIX to become one of the leading providers of data and analytics into how people move. By empowering cities, businesses, and people with valuable insights, INRIX is helping to make the world smarter, safer, and greener. With partners and solutions spanning across the entire mobility ecosystem, INRIX is uniquely positioned at the intersection of technology and transportation – whether it’s keeping road users safe, improving traffic signal timing to reduce delay and greenhouse gasses, optimizing last mile delivery, or helping uncover market insights. Learn more at INRIX.com.   

BA passengers stuck on nine-hour ‘flight to nowhere’ after minor fault

P assengers were stuck on a nine-hour “flight to nowhere” after a British Airways plane from London to Texas was forced to turn around in mid-air.

The flight departed from Heathrow Airport at 10am on Monday and had reached Newfoundland, Canada, when a minor technical issue forced it to turn back.

It meant passengers on flight BA195 travelled 4,834 miles only to arrive back in the UK at 7pm.

BA apologised to customers for the “disruption” and rebooked them on alternative flights to Houston.

Warning message

The plane had been approaching Canada when one of its Rolls-Royce Trent engines flagged a warning message, The Times reported.

It is not believed to have posed an immediate safety risk, but the crew chose to return to the UK to carry out inspection and engineering work.

A spokesman for BA told The Times: “The flight returned to London Heathrow as a precaution due to a minor technical issue.

“It landed safely and customers disembarked as normal. We’ve apologised to our customers for the disruption to their journey.”

An earlier problem

The same aircraft was forced to make a diversion in October when a passenger’s mobile phone fell into a seat and began filling the cabin with smoke.

On that occasion, the jet was flying from Tokyo to London. It was forced to divert to Anchorage, Alaska, and passengers arrived in the UK 33 hours late.

In January, another BA plane was forced to turn around three hours into a flight to Delhi and return to the UK after seven hours in the air.

The term “flight to nowhere” refers to an aircraft that takes off from and returns to the same airport.

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