When you plan a London to North America trips, long-haul journeys connecting the UK with the United States or Canada. Also known as transatlantic travel, it’s more than just a flight—it’s a shift in time, culture, and rhythm that changes how you experience your destination. These trips aren’t just about booking a seat. They’re about preparing for a 7-to-8-hour time difference, understanding visa rules that change by country, and knowing which airports actually save you time and hassle.
Most travelers from London fly into one of four major hubs: New York (JFK or EWR), Chicago (ORD), Toronto (YYZ), or Los Angeles (LAX). Each has its own flow. JFK is busy but has the most direct routes from Heathrow. Toronto’s Pearson Airport is easier to navigate if you’re heading to Canada or the Midwest. And if you’re flying to the West Coast, LAX or Vancouver might be smarter than connecting through the East Coast. Transatlantic travel, the movement of people and goods across the Atlantic Ocean between Europe and North America has changed. Airlines now offer more non-stop options than ever, but baggage fees, seat selection, and in-flight Wi-Fi vary wildly—even on the same airline.
Visa rules are simple if you know them. If you’re a UK citizen heading to the US, you need an ESTA—not a visa—unless you’re staying longer than 90 days. Canada requires an eTA, which takes five minutes to apply for online. But don’t wait until the last minute. Both systems can glitch, and you’ll need a valid passport with at least six months left on it. And yes, you’ll need to fill out customs forms. Paper ones are rare now, but the digital versions still trip people up. If you’re bringing food, medicine, or even a gift for someone, check the rules. A box of British chocolates? Fine. A bag of cheese? Not so much.
Time zones are the silent killer. When it’s 10 p.m. in London, it’s 5 p.m. in New York and 2 p.m. in Los Angeles. Jet lag hits harder if you’re flying east. Try adjusting your sleep schedule a few days before you go. Drink water. Avoid alcohol on the flight. And don’t try to sleep on arrival if it’s daytime at your destination—force yourself to stay awake until local bedtime. It’s brutal, but it works.
What you’ll find in the posts below is a collection of real stories and practical tips from people who’ve done this trip—over and over. You’ll read about the best times to book flights, which airlines actually deliver on comfort, how to handle layovers without losing your mind, and what to pack that you didn’t know you needed. There’s no fluff here. No generic advice. Just what works when you’re tired, confused, and trying to make it from Heathrow to your hotel without a meltdown.
Discover the most compelling historical sites in North America for Londoners seeking deeper cultural connections beyond Europe-from colonial Williamsburg to ancient Chichen Itza-with practical travel tips tailored to UK residents.
