10 Tips for Parents Traveling to USA from India

This Article was fact checked and last updated for accuracy on November 17, 2024 by Mani Karthik

Being an Indian who has lived for several years in America, I am well aware of how anxiety-provoking it can be for parents to visit their children in USA.

Of course, the excitement of seeing the apple of their eye after such a long time does help temper that anxiety but traveling for the very first time to another country, with a different culture and language, can be scary for even veteran travelers.

Also Read: Best travel insurance for parents visiting USA

10 Tips for Parents Traveling to USA

If you’ve been following my blog, you know that I write regularly to provide information that can help ease the journey to the US.

This time I’m going to look at a list of 10 things that can ease airport procedures when traveling to USA from India.

1. Get the dollar exchange done before your trip:

It is the first thing that needs to be done to avoid the last-minute hassles of trying to change your money.

Be mindful that money exchanges at the airport won’t give you the best rates.

Compare rates with banks in your city a day or two ahead of the travel. If they have lower rates than the airport money exchange kiosks, go for them.

Money exchange kiosks at the airport know that you don’t have any other option but to get money from them, so they add up a point or two compared to outside exchange rates.

If you are exchanging a lot of money, these small points add up and can lose you lot of money.

2. Arrive early at the airport:

Since you have got an international flight to catch, prepare such that you are able to arrive at the airport at least 3 hours prior to the scheduled departure time, since the check-in and immigration process does take time.

Use this time to ensure you have your documents in place, your luggage isn’t oversized, get the plastic wrap done if you have a large luggage and long journey ahead.

3. Smartly ditch the customer service line:

Want travel assistance? There is no need to stand in long queues at the customer service counter to check your flight status, gate information and even check in for your flight.

Use your smartphone for this purpose.

All you need to do is save the airline’s customer service number in it, before you leave home.

4. Check-in online:

Online check-in is a great way to reduce tedious airport procedures.

Most airlines allow you to start checking in online on their website about 48 hours prior to the scheduled time of departure.

Checking in online also means that you get to choose your seats, rather than get handed whatever is left over after others have made their choice.

5. Take a screenshot of your boarding pass:

When you check in online, you need to send a mobile boarding pass to your smartphone, which needs to be shown to the airport officials, when asked for.

But what if the internet connection isn’t good at the airport or the airline’s app isn’t working?

It is always advisable to take a screenshot of your boarding pass and save it on your phone to avoid any problems at the airport.

Better yet, keep printed copies ready (just in case your phone decides to act up.)

6. Better still, print the boarding pass:

How you will manage if your phone battery suddenly dies on you?

This is why it is a good idea to print the boarding pass and keep the hard copy with you at the airport.

7. Carry some change in dollars:

For senior travelers, the airlines provide the convenience of wheelchairs for free.

However, when your wheelchair assistant drops you off, he will certainly expect a tip.

Keep some change handy for this.

8. Always keep your passport and important documents handy:

Airport theft is a common issue across the globe.

Instead of keeping your passport and important documents in your pockets or digging them deep within your luggage, keep them in a separate bag, which you can easily take care of.

9. Prefer not wearing jewelry:

In India, elders, especially women, don’t feel completely dressed till they have some jewelry on, even if it is very basic.

However, you might need to take these off at the security checkpoint, which can be quite a hassle for seniors.

I would recommend parents to keep these things packed in their bags and take them out only when they reach their destination.

10. Opt for expedited screening programs:

The TSA or Transportation Security Administration offers a trusted traveler program, in which travelers are allowed to stay fully dressed, keep their belts and shoes on, and keep their items while going through security screening.

Membership in this program is only given to travelers who are not perceived as high risk by the TSA.

Related: For more visa-related information check out VisitVisaGuide.com

11. Pack Light, But Pack Smart:

Remember, less is more when it comes to luggage. Overpacking can lead to extra fees and unnecessary stress.

However, ensure you’ve packed essential medications, a few familiar snacks (especially if you have dietary restrictions), and a comfortable travel pillow for the long flight.

12. Embrace Layering:

Airplanes can get chilly, and the weather in the US might be different from what you’re used to.

Pack clothes that you can layer, so you can adjust to varying temperatures comfortably.

13. Stay Hydrated:

Airplane cabins are notoriously dry. Carry an empty water bottle and fill it up after security check-in.

Staying hydrated can help prevent jet lag and keep you feeling refreshed during the journey.

14. Download Entertainment:

Long flights can get boring.

Download movies, TV shows, music, or e-books to your phone or tablet to keep yourself entertained during the journey.

Netflix, Amazon Prime, YouTube etc let’s you to do download chosen shows for offline viewing. Use it.

Don’t forget your headphones!

15. Familiarize Yourself with US Customs:

Before you travel, read up on US customs and immigration procedures.

Knowing what to expect can make the process smoother and less intimidating.

16. Learn a Few Basic Phrases:

Even if you don’t speak English fluently, learning a few basic phrases like “hello,” “thank you,” and “where is the restroom?” can go a long way in making your trip easier and more enjoyable.

17. Stay Connected:

Purchase a local SIM card or an international roaming plan for your phone so you can stay connected with your family and friends in the US and back home.

You’ll find some SIM plans at the airport. They might be expensive but worth it.

Alternatively, you can also turn on/activate the international roaming feature on your cell phone network.

18. Plan Your Transportation:

Figure out how you’ll get from the airport to your final destination. Will you be picked up by your family, take a taxi, or use public transportation?

Having a plan in place can save you a lot of hassle upon arrival.

I normally use the ticket booking app to arrange a taxi at the destination.

19. Relax and Enjoy:

Remember, this is a chance to spend quality time with your children and explore a new country. Don’t let stress overshadow the excitement of the journey.

Take deep breaths, relax, and enjoy the experience.

20. Communicate with Your Children:

Keep your children informed about your flight details and arrival time. This will ensure a smooth pickup and prevent unnecessary waiting at the airport.

If you know what to expect during your journey, half the anxiety will be taken care of, leaving more mind-space for the excitement of seeing your children again.