Travel to North America from London

When you plan to travel to North America from London, a long-haul journey connecting two major cultural and economic hubs. Also known as transatlantic travel, it’s more than just booking a flight—it’s about understanding timing, costs, and what waits for you on the other side. This isn’t a quick weekend getaway. It’s a trip that demands planning, especially if you’re heading to the U.S., Canada, or beyond.

You’ll need to know the difference between direct flights and layovers. Airlines like British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, and Delta fly nonstop from Heathrow or Gatwick to New York, Chicago, Toronto, and Vancouver. A direct flight takes about 7 to 8 hours, but add in security, boarding, and baggage claim, and you’re looking at 12+ hours from door to door. Layovers? They can stretch your trip to 18 hours or more—and you’ll want to avoid them unless you’re trying to save money.

Visa requirements, the legal entry rules for travelers from the UK. Also known as ESTA or eTA, these aren’t optional. If you’re going to the U.S., you need an ESTA—apply online at least 72 hours before you fly. For Canada, it’s an eTA, which costs about $7 and takes minutes to get. Skip this step, and you won’t even make it to the gate. And don’t assume your passport is enough. It must be valid for at least six months beyond your return date. Weather matters too. If you’re flying in December, you’re landing in snow. If you’re going in July, you’re stepping into heat and humidity. Pack layers, and check the forecast for your destination—not London.

Time zones, the shift that throws off your body clock. Also known as jet lag, it’s real. London is five hours ahead of New York, eight ahead of Los Angeles. That means if you land at 3 p.m. in New York, it’s 8 p.m. back home. Try to sleep on the plane, drink water, and avoid alcohol. Don’t try to force yourself to stay awake until midnight local time—you’ll just feel worse. Money’s another thing. The U.S. dollar and Canadian dollar aren’t the same as pounds. ATMs are everywhere, but watch out for foreign transaction fees. Get a travel card with no fees, or carry some cash in local currency. You’ll thank yourself when you’re buying coffee in Toronto or a subway ticket in Chicago.

People think North America is all big cities and skyscrapers, but it’s also national parks, small towns, and roadside diners. If you’re flying into New York, consider renting a car to drive up the Hudson Valley. If you land in Vancouver, take a day trip to Whistler. The best trips aren’t the ones with the most photos—they’re the ones where you actually feel like you’re there.

There’s no single right way to do this trip. Some people book months ahead and get the best deals. Others wait till the last minute and score a surprise discount. Some stick to hotels. Others stay in Airbnbs or hostels. What matters is you’re ready. Know your documents, pack smart, and give yourself room to breathe. The moment you step off that plane, you’re not in London anymore. And that’s the whole point.

Below, you’ll find real stories, tips, and hidden details from people who’ve made this journey—and lived to tell it. No fluff. No guesswork. Just what actually works.