Top summer travel hacks for exploring the USA
Whether you’re exploring the iconic streets of New York City, admiring the red rock landscapes of Arizona or relaxing on California’s golden beaches, the USA offers adventures as diverse as its people. However, travelling across this vast land takes plenty of planning.
Summer travel can mean bigger crowds, variable weather and higher demand for hotels and transport. But these summer travel hacks will help you make the most of your trip to the USA, whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning for more.
Craft your USA itinerary
With so much to see and do in the States, planning is essential to making the most of your trip:
Start by selecting a mix of iconic landmarks, cultural experiences and natural wonders that match your interests. Whether it’s the sun-dipped beaches of Miami or the musical streets of New Orleans, decide on the highlights you can’t miss.
Plan your journey with realistic travel times between destinations. Use maps or travel apps to check driving distances, flight durations or train routes. This will help you avoid cramming too much into each day.
Leave space in your schedule for spontaneous detours, roadside attractions or local recommendations you pick up along the way. A flexible itinerary allows you to adapt.
If you’re visiting in summer, try to include some of these unmissable seasonal highlights:
4th of July fireworks and community events across the country
The USA’s Independence Day is a true nationwide celebration. Expect dazzling fireworks displays lighting up skylines from city rooftops to beachside promenades. Popular spots to participate in the festivities include:
New York City’s Macy’s Fireworks Spectacular over the East River
Boston’s Pops Fireworks Spectacular on the Charles River Esplanade
Waterfront celebrations in San Diego and Miami
Essence Festival, New Orleans
Held every July in New Orleans, the Essence Festival is a dynamic celebration of Black music, culture and community.
Known as ‘the party with a purpose’, this festival fills the Superdome and nearby venues with performances from some of the world’s biggest music icons. There are also empowerment seminars, wellness experiences and cultural showcases to look forward to. The festive atmosphere gets so electric it often spills onto the streets of the French Quarter.
Lollapalooza, Chicago
Set in Grant Park against Chicago’s famous skyline, Lollapalooza draws global music lovers for four packed days of world-class live performances. This festival features multiple stages with artists from genres like rock, pop, hip-hop and electronic music. Beyond the music, visitors can explore art installations, food stalls and interactive fan experiences.
State fairs in Iowa, Minnesota and Texas
The classic US fair comes alive in these states with plenty of old-fashioned fun. Expect giant Ferris wheels, thrilling rides and unique contests like butter sculpting. The food alone makes a visit worth it.
Book your flights the smart way
Getting a great deal on flights is the best way to get your holiday off to a good start. Why check flights daily when Booking.com can do it for you? Use our in-app Genius flight price alerts so we can notify you when flight prices are increasing or decreasing for your chosen route. It’s a simple way of finding flight deals without spending hours searching for them.
Benefit from flexible flight fares
Summer travel can sometimes mean unpredictable weather. Yet, there’s no need to worry about bad weather on holiday if you purchase a flexible ticket on Booking.com. Change your booking up to 24 hours before departure time on selected airfares. This means you can still travel with the same airline and route you originally planned, and you’ll only have to pay for the fare difference – if there is any. Change, cancel or get support for your flights when life happens.
Not to mention, our flexible flight fares allow you to compare dates and destinations easily. You can choose a date range to compare prices within a specific month or up to six months in advance, so you can adapt your journey with ease.
Consider alternative airports
Flying into smaller airports may result in fewer crowds, perfect if you’re after a relaxed break. For example, try travelling to Oakland International Airport instead of San Francisco International Airport.
Plan attractions in advance
The USA is a popular holiday destination, especially for summer travel. Planning early means you can book where and when you want, from city stays to coastal road trips.
Reserve attractions and tour tickets in advance
From guided tours of national parks to popular city attractions like the Empire State Building or Alcatraz, booking tickets in advance can save time and avoid disappointment. Many tours offer skip-the-line options, helping you make the most of every moment of your USA adventure.
Outdoor concerts and cultural festivals are plentiful during summer in the USA. However, planning early is essential as hotels and transport fill up just as fast as the events.
Pack for every climate
Summer travel means humid subtropical regions in the Southeast and arid deserts in the Southwest. Weather conditions can vary significantly, so it’s important to pack these essentials:
Breathable and light clothing for warm weather
A waterproof jacket for summer showers
Sun hat, sunglasses and high SPF sun cream
Tips for travelling to the USA through various weather conditions
The Southeast (e.g. Florida): expect hot conditions with frequent noon thunderstorms. Lightweight, moisture-wicking clothing is advisable.
The Southwest (e.g. Arizona): prepare for very high temperatures and dry conditions. Sun protection and hydration are crucial.
The Northeast (e.g. New York): summers here are warm with occasional rain. Layered clothing is recommended to adapt to conditions.
The Pacific Northwest (e.g. Washington): this region has mild temperatures with potential for rain. A light waterproof jacket can be helpful.
The mountain regions (e.g. Colorado): expect cool temperatures, especially at higher elevations. Wear warm layers in the evenings and early mornings.
Travel around the USA with ease
There are countless ways to explore the USA’s vast landscapes, buzzing cities and natural wonders. Whether you dream of cruising along an open highway, hopping on a scenic train ride or navigating the vibrant streets of a big city, getting around is part of the fun.
Hit the open road with a rental car
Book your car hire early to help secure your preferred vehicle and check for unlimited mileage if you have a long-distance journey in mind. Where available, eco-friendly hybrid or electric models are also a great choice. The USA's extensive road network is well-maintained, making road trips super simple.
Some unforgettable summer road trips to consider this holiday season include the iconic Route 66 and the scenic Pacific Coast Highway and Overseas Highway.
Navigate city streets with public transport
When visiting major cities, consider using local public transport to avoid traffic and parking fees. Cities like New York, Chicago and San Francisco offer an extensive network of buses, trains and subways. Walking and cycling tours are also a great way to explore cities at your own pace.
Take scenic train journeys
Train travel offers a relaxing way to see the USA’s diverse landscapes. Some train operators go along iconic routes such as:
The California Zephyr (Chicago to San Francisco) – expect breathtaking views of the Rockies.
The Empire Builder (Chicago to Seattle) – enjoy views of the vast northern plains.
Make the most of the nightlife and shopping opportunities
No visit to the USA is complete without experiencing some of its most iconic destinations. From buzzing nightlife scenes to world-class shopping and cultural landmarks, the country offers something for every type of traveller.
Experience nightlife in the USA
Whether you are after glamorous rooftop bars, buzzing live music venues or laid-back pubs, there is something for every kind of night owl. Each city has its own unique rhythm and exploring after dark is the perfect way to experience a different side of US culture.
New York City, New York: Dance the night away at world-famous clubs in Manhattan, sip cocktails at sky-high rooftop bars or enjoy jazz in historic Harlem.
New Orleans, Louisiana: Explore the lively French Quarter, where live jazz spills out onto the streets and late-night bars serve local favourites.
Las Vegas, Nevada: From dazzling casinos to spectacular stage shows and world-class nightclubs, Vegas promises an unforgettable night every time.
Miami, Florida: Soak up the electric energy of South Beach with beachfront bars, salsa dancing and stylish lounges that keep the party going into the early hours.
Explore shopping hotspots
From high-end designer boutiques to quirky independent stores and sprawling outlet malls, shopping in the US can easily become a memorable part of your travel experience. Whether you are looking for souvenirs, fashion finds or bargain deals, consider these destinations:
New York City, New York: Browse high-end labels on Fifth Avenue, hunt for vintage treasures in Brooklyn or explore cutting-edge concept stores in SoHo.
Los Angeles, California: Discover designer glamour along Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills, or visit The Grove and Melrose Avenue for trendy finds.
Chicago, Illinois: Shop along the Magnificent Mile, home to an impressive mix of department stores, boutiques and flagship shops.
Orlando, Florida: Score deals at the Orlando International Premium Outlets or explore themed shopping experiences at Disney Springs.
Use these USA summer travel hacks for an unforgettable trip
From seasonal events to the bright lights of bustling cities, summer in the USA offers something for every traveller.
Whether you’re chasing epic road trips, booking must-see attractions or exploring vibrant neighbourhoods after dark, pack smart, stay flexible and take advantage of handy travel tools and flexible flight fares to keep your plans on track. With this travel advice for the USA in mind, you will be all set to enjoy the adventure of a lifetime across one of the world's most exciting destinations.
