Things to Know Before Visiting the Southwest (and USA)

I get hundreds of messages from people asking me for tips before visiting Utah and the U.S. National Parks. So I thought it would be helpful to put together a list of main pointers to make your trip planning a little easier.

Language
The official language of the U.S. is English. In the parks, signs and visitor information are almost always in English, but staff are used to international visitors.

Currency
The U.S. dollar (USD) is the official currency. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it’s always smart to carry a little cash for small-town shops, farmers markets, or rural stops where cards aren’t always taken.

Cash & Payments
Most people use cards or mobile pay (Apple Pay, Google Pay, etc.) for everything. Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted. American Express works in some places, but not everywhere. ATMs are common in towns, but rare inside national parks.

Tipping
Unlike some countries, tipping in the U.S. is expected. Standard is 15–20% at restaurants, and if you take a tour, expect to tip your tour guide ON TOP of the price of the tour. The standard tip is usually 15–20% of the tour price if you booked individually.

Water
Tap water is safe to drink, but naturally occurring water in the desert is a different story. Water is scarce in national parks and along hikes—don’t count on finding it outside of visitor centers. Always bring more than you think you’ll need, and if you plan on drinking water from streams/rivers, make sure to have a filter.

Weather
The Southwest's weather is extreme. Summers are brutally hot, winters can bring snow, and temps swing dramatically between day and night. Flash floods are common in slot canyons during rain storms and monsoon season—always check the forecast at www.weather.gov or the local park website before heading out.

Clothes
Pack layers. You’ll want breathable clothing for hot days, a warm layer for nights, and sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen). In cooler months, a puffy jacket and gloves are essential—even in the desert.

Electricity
The U.S. uses 120-volt electricity and standard Type A/B plugs. If you’re traveling from abroad, bring the proper adapter and voltage converter.

Wi-Fi & Service
Cell service is very limited in national parks. Don’t count on having reception once you’re inside the parks. Download offline maps (Google Maps, AllTrails, Gaia) ahead of time. Wi-Fi is usually available at visitor centers or in nearby towns.

National Park Pass
If you’re visiting more than two parks, grab the America the Beautiful Pass. It’s $80 for unlimited entry into all U.S. national parks and federal lands for a year—it pays for itself quickly.

I hope this list helps you feel more prepared. Utah’s national parks are unforgettable—and a little planning makes all the difference in having a smooth, safe, and amazing trip.