Welcome! We’re excited to have you join us at IAC25 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania! Here are a few tips to make your experience smoother.
Credit Cards and Cash
Credit cards and contactless payments are accepted almost everywhere—restaurants, shops, public transit, and even many food trucks. Visa and Mastercard are the most commonly accepted.
It’s a good idea to carry a small amount of U.S. dollars in cash for things like tips and small purchases. You’ll find ATMs at the airport, convenience stores (like 7-Eleven and Wawa), and bank branches. Your bank might charge international transaction or withdrawal fees.
Mobile Phone Service
If you don’t have an international plan, you can purchase a prepaid U.S. SIM card from phone carriers like T-Mobile or AT&T. These are available at convenience stores or pharmacies (like CVS or Walgreens).
eSIMs are another option and can often be set up before you travel. Some of our volunteers have used Airalo with success—but this is only for data service, not for calls.
Immigration and Customs (Arriving in the U.S.)
While many of our attendees haven’t had any issues, travel in the U.S. can be unpredictable, and it’s better to be over-prepared.
Please be prepared to show your passport, and if applicable, your valid visa.
We recommend that you print and carry with you the following:
- Conference registration confirmation email
- Confirmation of where you’re staying (e.g., hotel, Airbnb, etc.)
- Your return or onward flight details
- If applicable, your visa invitation letter
Having these documents printed can make the process quicker than having to find and show these items from your device. You may have heard about phone searches by TSA or U.S. Immigration agents. Here is an article from Afar that explains electronic device inspections.
If you have any prescription medication, bring it in the original labeled container, and carry a copy of your prescription.
Getting Around Philly
For specific information about traveling to the conference, please see our transportation page.
The SEPTA system is Philadelphia’s public transit, including buses, subways, and regional rail. You can use credit cards or contactless payments on most SEPTA services—no need to buy a separate transit card.
Taxis, Uber, and Lyft are all available in the city and at the airport.
Indego is Philadelphia’s bikshare program.
Power & Plugs
The U.S. uses Type A and B plugs with a voltage of 120V. If your country uses a different plug type or voltage, bring an adapter and converter.
Emergency Info
In the U.S., 911 is the emergency number for police, fire, or medical services.
If you need to see a doctor and it’s not an emergency, there are several urgent care clinics nearby. You can usually make an appointment online. Some might take walk-in appointments.
If you need a pharmacy, there are several CVS and Walgreens locations.
Snacks, supplies, etc.
CVS and Walgreens carry snacks, medication, toiletries, and most things you might while on travel. Wawa and 7-Eleven are open 24 hours and will have snacks and basic needs.
Tipping
Tipping is expected in the U.S. People usually tip 15-20% at restaurants and a few dollars for hotel staff or drivers.