Arriving in the US without first night accommodation booked

[Ralphie]

Apologies for what is likely a naive question.

I’m just arranging a trip to the US which will start with a road trip. Unlike every other time I’ve been to the US, where all accommodation has been pre-booked, this time we’re not planning on booking until we arrive or get near places because we’re not sure how much we’ll cover each day. Especially the first day, where my FIL (the main driver) isn’t sure if he’ll stay in LA or move on the first night as it’ll depend on how up for driving he is.

Now, on arrival to the US you are always asked where you will be based, and I always list the first night’s accommodation.

We know where we’ll likely be that night (Palm Springs), do I make sure I pre-book accommodation so I’m not lying on arrival (even if our plans change after) or can I just put where we intend on staying without booking?

I get overly cautious with US Border Patrol!

 

[kpc]

I'll book a cancelleable hotel night for the 1st night to satisfy the US Border control if they start digging.

 

[drron]

I'll book a cancelleable hotel night for the 1st night to satisfy the US Border control if they start digging.

But be careful.A lot of hotels now have a 14-48 hour deadline before arriving rather than cancel by 6pm on the day of staying on their cancellable rates.

 

[Deleted member]

In my opinion, arriving in a foreign country after (possibly) a long haul flight, and getting into a (possibly) unfamiliar car, and driving on an unfamiliar side of the road is just asking for trouble. But then that’s just me. Safety first.

 

[juddles]

In my opinion, arriving in a foreign country after (possibly) a long haul flight, and getting into a (possibly) unfamiliar car, and driving on an unfamiliar side of the road is just asking for trouble. But then that’s just me. Safety first.

I agree with GPH on this. Arriving in the US from Australia is a big shock to the central system.

As for arrival without hotel booking, I have never had a problem with this. I have frequently just picked a known hotel at random and stated I will go there and stay. But it is your whole reality / story that you have to manage. I ALWAYS believe in being honest and open with USA authorities.

 

[drron]

It depends on how often you fly into the US from Australia,how much you can sleep on planes and how much you have driven in the States.
So having been driving in the States for 35 years,being able to sleep on planes since retirement I have no troubles arriving and driving to Oxnard,Carlsbad or Cabazon.
Yes all have factory outlets.

 

[get me outta here]

Usually a cancellable rate is only non charged to the holding cc if cancelling the day before arrival. Perhaps book something really cheap,

 

[Ralphie]

Thanks for the driving concern, you’re correct that it would worry me if it was me driving, but we’ll be flying business (so should be reasonably well rested) and FIL has driven in the US many times before so he’s very comfortable.

However as we’ll be seeing how he feels on arrival, we won’t be driving anywhere if he’s not comfortable. Hence the reluctance to definitely book a hotel in advance.

 

[Oscarq]

We have only been asked the reason for our visit to US, be honest, they are more interested that you can feed yourself and leave the country. I would not be worried about booking any accommodation. Be confident and precise but not arrogant. If accommodation is asked on the immigration form just nominate the Palm Springs hotel you are expecting to stay. Agree with drron a 2 hour drive is ok if you have had enough rest. Please let us know the outcome, enjoy your trip.

 

[Ralphie]

. Please let us know the outcome, enjoy your trip.

It’ll be a three week road trip with my in laws, it could be a very “interesting” trip.

 

[Deleted member]

It’ll be a three week road trip with my in laws, it could be a very “interesting” trip.

Been there, done that! Sold the TShirt on eBay. Never ever) again. (LOL). Good luck. Have a great trip.

 

[CaptJCool]

A lil hack that I found out about because I had Expedia offer a no deposit reservation and then they charged up a "free cancellation before 24 hours" 4 days early when the promise was within two days after arrival. ---


-- weeks later NO refund!
(then it becomes a Stoush between Expedia, the reservation company and the actual establishment)
To circumvent anyone actually charging contrary to their promise, have a few dollars on a debit card that is active but not used so they get the reservation (qantas cash card comes to mind...)
That way you Have a booking which you may or may not used and you don't have the inconvenience of getting a refund from them or a credit card dispute

 

[amaroo]

google the fanciest hotel, and write the address...