7 pitfalls that could ruin your New York trip
Planning a trip to New York? Here's how to avoid the 7 common mistakes that could spoil your stay in the city.
1/ Check Your Passport Expiration
Before you even start looking at flight and hotel prices, verify that your passport is valid. While the US tourism office confirms that a valid passport is sufficient, it’s wise to ensure your passport remains valid for at least 6 months after your return date.
If you just received your passport, double-check that there are no spelling errors. One forum member recently discovered their first name was misspelled on their new passport. Read about it on the New York Forum.
Bottom line: confirm you can travel before you start planning your trip!
2/ Don’t Miss Your Flight
I know people this has happened to. Shaving a few minutes here and there before heading to the airport, you forget to account for traffic or transit delays. The plane won’t wait for you.
On your departure day to New York, leave early. It’s better to spend extra time browsing airport shops or reviewing your guide than to miss your flight and lose your ticket.
The same applies on your return: allow plenty of time to reach the airport. You have several options for an organized airport transfer in New York.
3/ Avoid Getting Sick on the Flight
During your flight, keep a sweater or jacket within reach—airplane air conditioning tends to be quite cold. The last thing you want is to catch a cold.
Pack a small first aid kit to handle any minor illness that could spoil your trip. Include pain relievers, antacids, anti-diarrheal medication, cold medicine, and blister prevention pads. Don’t forget sunscreen in summer either. A bad sunburn can ruin your vacation.
4/ Bring Your Hotel Reservation
Before leaving for New York, print and carry your confirmations and vouchers, especially the confirmation email from your hotel. If the front desk has any issues with your reservation or room category, you’ll have proof right there.
5/ Watch Your Belongings
While New York is generally very safe, pickpockets operate here as they do everywhere. Don’t leave your luggage unattended at the airport, on the street, or in the hotel lobby. Keep your passport in your hotel room safe or among your belongings. Don’t carry all your cash with you. These precautions apply equally to New York, Paris, Lyon, or Brussels.
6/ Respect the Law
In the United States, laws are enforced strictly and rules are not taken lightly. Follow all regulations and prohibitions carefully. Consider the tourist who decided to climb the cables of the Brooklyn Bridge for a photo despite clear warnings. The result: arrest, several days of community service, legal fees, and additional expenses for the rest of the trip.
7/ Increase Your Credit Card Limit
Even if you’ve budgeted carefully for New York and think you have enough cash, always be prepared for unexpected expenses. Make sure your credit card limit is high enough to withdraw a substantial amount if needed.
I also recommend traveling with two credit cards linked to different accounts.
Remember, you’re going on vacation to one of the world’s largest cities—you’ll always find help if something goes wrong. It’s not the middle of nowhere! Feel free to contact me if you have questions. My final tip: make the most of every second in the Big Apple! And don’t hesitate to visit us on the New York forum before, during, or after your trip! 🙂