Packing List & Communication

What to Pack

• Passport + ESTA Confirmation: Printed or digital. Passport MUST be machine-readable.
• US Power Adapter (Type A/B): Flat, two-pronged plugs. Available at any Dollar Store ($1), but better to get one in advance. The voltage (120V instead of 230V) is not a problem for chargers (all modern chargers are dual-voltage), but hairdryers and straighteners from Europe won't work!
• Comfortable Shoes: You will walk 20,000–30,000 steps per day. Sneakers are a must. New Yorkers wear sneakers everywhere — no one will look at you funny.
• Light Jacket / Rain Jacket: For air-conditioned interiors (ice-cold in summer!) and unexpected showers.
• Warm Clothing (Winter): Down coat, hat, gloves, scarf — the wind between the skyscrapers is biting. Wind chill down to -15°C!
• Credit Card: In New York, you can pay almost everywhere with a card — even most street vendors. A fee-free travel credit card is recommended (Revolut, DKB, ING). Cash: $50–100 for tips and small stands.

Mobile Internet

German mobile tariffs usually work in the USA — but check the roaming fees! USA roaming can be expensive (€5–12/MB with some providers). Alternatives:

• eSIM / Prepaid: Airalo, Holafly, or a local T-Mobile/AT&T prepaid SIM (from $25/2 weeks, with unlimited data) — available at JFK airport.
• WLAN: Free Wi-Fi in almost all hotels, cafes (Starbucks!), museums, and public places (Times Square, Bryant Park). The LinkNYC stations (blue pillars on sidewalks) offer free high-speed Wi-Fi throughout Manhattan.

Useful Apps

• Citymapper: The best transit app for NYC — subway, bus, Uber, Citi Bike in one app.
• TodayTix: Last-minute Broadway tickets and lottery.
• Yelp: Restaurant reviews and recommendations.
• Uber / Lyft: Ride-hailing — often cheaper than taxis.