Packing for the USA from the UK: Essential Travel Items, Tech and Luggage Tips
Travelling to the United States is exciting, but packing can feel like a puzzle. From plug adapters and power banks to TSA liquid rules and customs restrictions, there are many small details that can make or break your journey.
This guide combines first hand experience with official travel advice to help you pack confidently and avoid last minute surprises. If you have not yet arranged your travel authorisation, remember that most UK citizens can apply for an ESTA through the Visa Waiver Programme before departure.
Why planning your packing matters
Packing for the USA is not just about clothes and toiletries. Different climates, long flights, and strict airport rules all affect what you can bring and how you pack it.
I once made the mistake of taking heavy jumpers to Florida, only to live in shorts all week. A quick weather check and destination plan save time, money, and valuable suitcase space.
Travel documents and essentials
Before you think about outfits, make sure your documents are ready. You will need:
- A valid UK passport
- An approved ESTA travel authorisation
- Proof of onward or return travel
- Your travel insurance policy
Do I need to print my ESTA
No, but keeping a digital copy on your phone or a printout in hand luggage is helpful if an airline agent asks for it.
Do I need proof of insurance
Insurance is not checked at the border, but it is essential. Healthcare in the USA is costly, and proof of coverage can speed up assistance if you need it.
Proof of onward travel
According to U.S. Customs and Border Protection, you must show evidence that you plan to leave the United States. A return flight ticket normally meets this requirement.
If you are visiting friends or family, carry their address and contact details in your hand luggage. It is often requested on the landing card or ESTA form.
Related reading: Travelling from the UK to the USA, Passport, ESTA and Entry Requirements Explained
Plug adapters and electronics
What plug adapter do I need for the USA from the UK
You need a Type A or Type B plug adapter. UK plugs will not fit American sockets.
Voltage in the USA
The USA uses 110 volts, while the UK uses 230 volts. Many modern electronics, including phone chargers and laptops, are dual voltage. You can check this on the charger label.
| Device | Works in USA | Needs Adapter | Notes |
| iPhone or Android charger | Yes | Yes | Dual voltage, use a plug adapter |
| Laptop | Yes | Yes | Check charger for 110 to 240 V label |
| Hairdryer or straightener | Sometimes | Yes | Use a converter if not dual voltage |
| Electric toothbrush | Usually | Yes | Some require a converter |
Can I bring a power bank on my flight
Yes, but keep it in your hand luggage. According to TSA.gov, power banks are not allowed in checked bags.
Traveller insight: I always pack a small multi port USB power strip. Many U.S. hotel rooms have surprisingly few sockets.
Clothing and weather
The USA covers multiple time zones and climates. What you pack for New York in February will be very different from Los Angeles in July.
What clothes should I pack for the USA
Think layers. Air conditioning is strong indoors, even in summer. Lightweight, breathable fabrics work best for warm states like Florida or Nevada, while jeans, jumpers, and a light jacket suit cooler areas.
What is smart casual in the USA
Smart casual is flexible. For restaurants or evening events, a polo shirt and chinos or a simple dress usually work.
Experience note: Americans dress more casually than you might expect. Trainers are fine almost everywhere, even in cities.
Liquids, toiletries and medication
Liquids rule
The TSA 3 1 1 rule means liquids must be in containers of 100 millilitres or less, inside a single clear one litre resealable bag.
| Allowed | Not Allowed |
| Toothpaste, deodorant, perfume under 100 ml | Large shampoo bottles |
| Travel size sun cream | Aerosols over 100 ml |
| Liquid make up or gels under 100 ml | Drinks or open liquids |
Can I take medication
Yes, but keep it in its original packaging. According to TSA medication guidelines, prescription medicine is allowed in hand luggage and should be clearly labelled.
If you take controlled medication, bring a doctor’s letter. Vitamins and supplements are fine if sealed and declared if asked.
Related reading: Travel Insurance for USA Trips
Baggage limits and airline rules
Each airline has slightly different policies.
| Airline | Checked Bag Allowance | Hand Luggage |
| British Airways | One free checked bag | One cabin bag and personal item |
| Virgin Atlantic | One to two checked bags depending on ticket | One cabin bag |
| American Airlines | Usually one checked bag | One cabin bag |
Can I take food
You can take snacks and sealed food in your luggage, but meat, fresh fruit, and dairy are restricted. Always declare food items on your customs form.
Duty free purchases
You may bring up to 200 cigarettes, 50 cigars, or 1 litre of alcohol duty free into the USA. Declare anything above these limits.
Traveller insight: Keep duty free receipts handy. CBP officers sometimes ask for proof of purchase.
What not to pack
Certain items are prohibited or require special permission.
| Category | Not Allowed |
| Food | Meat, dairy, fresh fruit, homemade meals |
| Plants | Seeds, soil, live plants |
| Weapons | Knives, BB guns, self defence sprays |
| Liquids | Over 100 ml in hand luggage |
Can I bring chocolate to the USA
Yes, packaged sweets and chocolate are fine. Avoid anything that could melt or leak.
What happens if you bring restricted items
According to CBP.gov, prohibited items are confiscated and may cause delays or fines.
Personal insight: I once packed a jar of chutney, assuming it was safe. Security removed it for being a liquid over 100 ml. Always double check the liquid rule.
Travel accessories and comfort items
Long flights can be tiring, so comfort matters.
Recommended accessories
- Travel pillow and eye mask
- Noise cancelling headphones
- Packing cubes to organise clothes
- Portable luggage scale
- Reusable water bottle that is empty through security
- Power bank and charger cable
- Luggage tracker such as AirTag or Tile
What is the 5 4 3 2 1 packing rule
This method means five tops, four bottoms, three accessories, two shoes, and one hat or jacket. It helps keep luggage light.
Should I use packing cubes
Yes, they save space and make it easier to find items during the trip.
Experience tip: On my first USA trip I skipped packing cubes and spent half the holiday hunting for socks. Now I never travel without them.
Quick packing checklist
Documents
- Passport
- ESTA approval
- Travel insurance certificate
- Flight details and accommodation address
Electronics
- UK to USA adapter
- Phone charger
- Laptop and cables
- Power bank in carry on only
Clothing
- Weather appropriate layers
- Smart casual outfit
- Swimwear and trainers
- Lightweight jacket
Toiletries
- 100 ml containers in clear bag
- Toothbrush and deodorant
- Prescription medication and vitamins
Extras
- Sunglasses and hat
- Travel pillow
- Snacks for the flight
- Pen for customs forms