For parents: preparing for your trip to the United States
We are delighted you have chosen Travel Class for this experience. This article answers the most common questions that arise before departure and during the first days of the programme in the United States.
Documents required
Valid passport. A passport is required — a national ID card is not sufficient for travel to the USA. Ensure it is a biometric (e-passport) and valid for the entire duration of the stay.
ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorisation). Spanish citizens travelling under the Visa Waiver Program must obtain an ESTA before departure. Apply online at esta.cbp.dhs.gov — it costs $21 and is usually approved within minutes. We strongly recommend applying at least 72 hours before departure. The ESTA is valid for two years or until the passport expires. Without an approved ESTA the airline will not allow boarding.
Travel authorisation for minors. Minors travelling without both parents are strongly recommended to carry a notarised letter of authorisation signed by the absent parent or legal guardian, translated into English. US Customs and Border Protection may request this document on arrival.
Travel insurance. Travel Class offers the option to arrange travel and medical insurance at the time of booking. If you have included it, you will receive the policy documents before departure. Medical treatment in the USA is among the most expensive in the world — adequate private health insurance is absolutely essential.
Arrival at the airport
On arrival, all passengers including minors must go through US Customs and Border Protection — students will be fingerprinted and photographed as part of the standard entry process. After baggage collection and customs clearance, a transfer representative will meet the group. In the case of individual transfer, a driver will be waiting in the arrivals hall with a sign showing the student's name. Students will travel directly to the school, where check-in, room allocation and a campus tour will take place. The following morning, school staff will present the internal rules and the week's programme.
Classes
On the first day, students sit a placement test to be assigned to the most appropriate level group. Classes begin the day after arrival. Only English is spoken in the classroom. The first few days can be demanding — students are required to communicate constantly in a foreign language, which is an essential part of the learning process. Progress is usually very visible within the first week.
Money
The USA uses US dollars (USD). We recommend each student carries the equivalent of €150–€200 per week for personal expenses, optional excursions and small purchases. A bank card (Visa or Mastercard) is accepted everywhere. Note that tipping (15–20%) is standard practice in the USA and should be factored into the budget. Spanish roaming plans often do not cover the USA — check with your provider before departure.
Excursions
The programme typically includes a full-day excursion on Saturdays and a half-day excursion mid-week. Additional optional excursions are usually available on Sundays, costing approximately $30–$100. The USA offers extraordinary variety depending on the programme location. We recommend setting aside some money for these.
Health
The climate varies greatly by region. East Coast summers are warm and humid (25–35°C); West Coast summers are drier and more temperate. Please inform Travel Class of any medical conditions your child has before departure, and send any regular medications clearly labelled and in their original packaging with a doctor's letter, handed to the accompanying staff on arrival.
What to pack
Luggage must not exceed 20–23 kg depending on the airline. We recommend including:
- Clothing suitable for the local climate (check the region of your programme)
- A light jacket — US interiors are heavily air-conditioned
- Rain jacket or light waterproof
- Swimwear and towel
- Comfortable walking shoes and trainers
- A small day backpack for classes and excursions
- A notebook and pen
- Power adapter — the USA uses Type A/B plugs (flat two-pin), different from Spain
- Prescription medications in original packaging with a doctor's letter
Bedding is provided and changed regularly. Laundry facilities are available on campus.
Communication
All campuses have free wifi. On arrival at the airport there will be internet available so your child can let you know they have landed. Local SIM cards are available at airports and phone shops. WhatsApp and FaceTime work well over wifi.
We wish your child an unforgettable experience!
If you have any questions before or during the programme, we are available on WhatsApp at +34 647 988 392.