Quick facts
Budget breakdown
| Category | Budget | Midrange |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $35–70 | $120–220 |
| Food | $20–35 | $50–80 |
| Transport | $5–15 | $25–50 |
| Activities | $0–15 | $30–60 |
| Drinks | $8–15 | $25–40 |
| Daily Total | $68–150 | $250–450 |
Daily per-person estimates. Costs vary by season and travel style.
Practical info
Visa & Entry
- Visa Waiver Program countries need an ESTA ($21) — apply at least 72 hours before travel at esta.cbp.dhs.gov
- LAX is the main airport. The FlyAway bus to Union Station is $9.75. Metro C Line connects to the city via Aviation/LAX station
- Burbank (BUR) is closer to Hollywood and often has cheaper domestic flights with shorter security lines
Health & Safety
- Travel insurance essential — US healthcare is extremely expensive without it. Urgent care visits start at $150+
- LA is generally safe for tourists. Be aware of your surroundings in Hollywood at night and parts of downtown
- Sunscreen is non-negotiable — UV is intense even on overcast days. Stay hydrated, especially when hiking
Getting Around
- Get a TAP card ($2) for Metro rail and buses. Day pass: $3.50 (rail) or $5 (rail + bus). Metro runs 4am–12:30am
- Metro connects DTLA, Hollywood, Koreatown, Santa Monica (Expo Line), and LAX area. The system is expanding fast
- Uber/Lyft are essential for areas Metro doesn't cover. Traffic is brutal 7–10am and 4–7pm — plan around it or take the Metro
Connectivity
- Free WiFi at most cafes, libraries, and Metro stations. Starbucks and McDonald's have reliable free WiFi
- US SIM: T-Mobile prepaid ($30/month unlimited) or Mint Mobile eSIM. Available at any phone store or Target/Walmart
- Cell coverage is excellent everywhere except deep canyon hikes. Download offline maps for Griffith Park and Malibu trails
Money
- Cards accepted virtually everywhere — many places are cashless. Apple Pay and Google Pay widely used
- Tipping: 18–20% at restaurants, $1–2/drink at bars, 15–20% for Uber/Lyft. Pre-tax total is the tipping base
- ATMs everywhere. Avoid currency exchange — US bank ATMs give the best rates. Charles Schwab refunds all ATM fees
Packing Tips
- Layers are essential — mornings are cool (15°C), afternoons hot (28°C+), and nights cool again. Marine layer keeps the coast cooler
- Comfortable walking shoes plus something for beach/hiking. Flip-flops for the beach, trail shoes for canyons
- Sunscreen (SPF 50+), sunglasses, reusable water bottle, and a light jacket for ocean breezes and air-conditioned restaurants
Cultural tips
Tipping Culture
Tip 18–20% at restaurants — it's not optional, servers depend on tips for income. Tip $1–2 per drink at bars, 15–20% for rideshare. Counter service tip jars are optional but appreciated.
Car Culture
LA is a driving city but you can survive without a car using Metro + Uber. If you rent, expect to spend $20–40/day on parking alone. Valet is common ($5–10 tip). Right turn on red is legal unless signed otherwise.
Beach Etiquette
All California beaches are public below the high tide line. No glass containers on the beach (strictly enforced). Smoking is banned on most beaches. Respect surfer right-of-way in the water.
Cannabis
Recreational cannabis is legal in California for 21+. Only buy from licensed dispensaries (check for the state license number). No smoking in public, hotel rooms, or beaches — designated areas and private property only.
Health Culture
LA takes health and fitness seriously. Vegan and gluten-free options are everywhere. Juice bars and acai bowls are a way of life. Don't be surprised by $16 smoothies — it's normal here.
Diversity
LA is one of the most diverse cities on earth — 224 languages spoken. Every neighborhood has its own cultural identity. Respect local communities when visiting ethnic neighborhoods.
