Tap water
Tap water is generally safe to drink.
North America country brief
United States travel essentials
United States uses Type A / Type B power outlets at 120V, 60Hz. The general emergency number is 911. Tap water is generally safe to drink.
Last reviewed
Verify visa and entry rules with official authorities before travel.
Quick answer
United States uses Type A / Type B power outlets at 120V, 60Hz. The general emergency number is 911. Tap water is generally safe to drink.
P
Power and plugs
- Plug types
- Type A, Type B
- Voltage
- 120V
- Frequency
- 60Hz
United States runs at 120V. Travelers from 220–240V regions (Europe, most of Asia) need a voltage converter for devices that aren't dual-voltage.
E
Emergency numbers
General
911
Police
911
Ambulance
911
T
Travel notes
Tipping
Tipping is a normal part of service culture in the United States. Restaurant diners commonly tip 15-20% before tax, with higher tips for excellent service. Taxi, rideshare, hotel and bar service often expect smaller tips as well.
Best season
Spring and autumn are the easiest seasons for many city trips because temperatures are milder and crowds are lower. Summer is popular for national parks and beaches, while winter is best for ski regions and warm-weather states such as Florida, Arizona and Hawaii.
Visa basics
Entry rules depend heavily on nationality and trip purpose. Many visitors use the Visa Waiver Program with an approved ESTA, while others need a visitor visa before travel. Check current rules with the U.S. Department of State or CBP before booking.
✓
Before you go: United States checklist
- Pack a Type A/Type B plug adapter for United States.
- United States runs at 120V. Travelers from 220–240V regions (Europe, most of Asia) need a voltage converter for devices that aren't dual-voltage.
- Bring a refillable bottle — tap water in United States is generally safe.
- Save the emergency number 911 in your phone before you arrive.
- If you'll drive, remember traffic keeps to the right in United States.
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Reference
Emergency numbers by country
Browse emergency numbers across all published TravelReady Guide country briefs.
Questions
Frequently asked questions
Can I drink tap water in United States? ⌄
Yes. Tap water in United States is considered safe to drink.
What power plug and voltage are used in United States? ⌄
United States uses Type A, Type B plugs running at 120V, 60Hz. United States runs at 120V. Travelers from 220–240V regions (Europe, most of Asia) need a voltage converter for devices that aren't dual-voltage.
What is the emergency number in United States? ⌄
Dial 911 for general emergencies in United States. Police: 911. Ambulance: 911.
When is the best time to visit United States? ⌄
Spring and autumn are the easiest seasons for many city trips because temperatures are milder and crowds are lower. Summer is popular for national parks and beaches, while winter is best for ski regions and warm-weather states such as Florida, Arizona and Hawaii.
Which side of the road do they drive on in United States? ⌄
In United States, traffic drives on the right side of the road, so the steering wheel is on the left.
What is the country calling code for United States? ⌄
The international dialing code for United States is +1. Dial this prefix after your exit code (e.g. 00 or +) to call a United States number from abroad.
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Sources
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