Going USA for 5 weeks

bagand96

I can't really help with the bank account as I have no knowledge. Although I do agree with others it'd be much easier to get one of the good UK cards (Halifax Clarity, Metro Bank) which would give you excellent exchange rates (much better than you can buy $ in the UK). You'd also then be able to use it for other trips worldwide. There's also the Travekex Supercard coming out soon although full details aren't available yet but that looks like it's going to be good.

As for mobile phone. Get a 3 pay as you go SIM card in the UK. They do "feel at home" in the USA which means you can use your allowance and standard call rate abroad. On pay as you go you have to load a "add on" but £15 would get you unlimited data, 300minutes and 3000 texts which last for 30 days. Or you could get the 30 day pay monthly plan for £14 giving 1GB dara, 600mins and unlimited texts. You'd need two months to cover your trip but its only rolling 30 day contract. Also you'd have a UK number so people can text and call you out of their plan or standard rate. http://www.three.co.uk/Discover/Phones/Feel_At_Home