British Expat Guide to Living in the USA

Moving from the UK to the USA is one of the biggest adventures you can take. The language is familiar, the culture is not entirely foreign, and yet America has a way of surprising British expats in ways both big and small. This guide covers the essentials for British expats settling into life in the USA, including the one thing almost every British expat agrees on: where to find proper British food when you're thousands of miles from home.

The Biggest Culture Shocks for British Expats in the USA

British expats in America almost universally report the same initial surprises. Here are the most common culture shocks and how to navigate them:

• Everything is bigger portion sizes, cars, homes, distances. America operates at a larger scale than the UK in almost every respect. It takes time to adjust.
• Customer service is different American service culture is warmer and more overtly friendly than British norms. Tipping is expected in restaurants, taxis, hotels and many service settings, typically 18 to 20 percent.
• Healthcare works differently the US healthcare system operates on private insurance. Make sure you have comprehensive health coverage arranged before you arrive.
• Driving is essential outside of a handful of major cities, public transport is limited. Most British expats find they need a car much sooner than expected.
• Tax is added at the till prices displayed in US stores do not include sales tax, which varies by state. The price you see is not what you pay.
• The food is different and this is where it gets personal.

The Food Problem: What British Expats Miss Most

Ask any British expat in America what they miss most and food comes up immediately. Not because American food is bad, but because British food is so specific, so tied to memory and comfort, that nothing American quite fills the gap. The most commonly missed foods among British expats in the USA include:

• ☕ Proper British tea PG Tips Tea Bags (240 pack) brews differently to American tea and nothing else comes close
• 🍫 Cadbury chocolate Cadbury Dairy Milk (Case of 48) the US version is made differently and British expats taste the difference immediately
• 🥔 McVitie's biscuits McVitie's Digestives (Box of 12) for dunking in that proper cup of tea
• 🍲 Heinz Beanz Heinz Beanz (Case of 24) American baked beans are sweet and thick, not the same thing at all
• 🧂 British crisps Walkers, McCoy's and Hula Hoops are nowhere to be found in US supermarkets
• 🥤 Vimto Vimto Sparkling (Case of 12) a drink with no American equivalent whatsoever
• 🍭 Marmite Marmite Yeast Extract 250g virtually impossible to find in US stores

Where to Find British Food in the USA

The good news is that you don't have to go without. BritishGram.com ships a huge range of authentic British food directly from the UK to your door anywhere in the USA. From tea and biscuits to crisps, chocolate, soft drinks and grocery staples, you can stock up on everything you miss and get it delivered to your American home within 5 to 14 business days.

The smartest approach is to order in bulk cases, which spreads the international shipping cost across more items and makes each order much better value. Many British expats in the USA place a monthly order to keep a steady supply of their British essentials at home.

Practical Tips for British Expats Setting Up in the USA

• Sort your Social Security Number early you'll need it for banking, employment, renting a home and almost everything else. Apply as soon as you're eligible.
• Open a US bank account quickly many services and landlords require a US bank account. Online banks like Wise or Revolut can bridge the gap while you set up a traditional account.
• Get a US driving licence your UK licence is valid for a short period but you'll need to convert it to a state licence. Requirements vary by state.
• Register with the British Consulate registering with your nearest British Consulate ensures you can be contacted in an emergency and keeps you connected to UK support services.
• Join the British expat community British expat groups on social media and in your local area are invaluable for advice, recommendations and a sense of home. Most major US cities have active British expat communities.

Staying Connected to British Culture in the USA

Beyond food, British expats find various ways to maintain their connection to home. British pubs exist in most major US cities and are a reliable gathering point for expats. British football (soccer) is broadcast widely across US streaming services. The BBC iPlayer and other UK streaming services are accessible via VPN.

And of course, having a well-stocked British food cupboard at home makes an enormous difference. There's something deeply comforting about making a proper cup of PG Tips with a McVitie's Digestive on the side, wherever in the world you happen to be.

Frequently Asked Questions

What do British expats miss most about the UK?

Food and drink consistently top the list. Proper British tea, Cadbury chocolate, crisps, Marmite, Heinz Beanz and British biscuits are the most commonly missed items. After food, British expats typically miss the NHS, the pub culture, the humour and the shorter distances between places.

Is it easy for British people to move to the USA?

Moving to the USA requires the appropriate visa or residency status. The process varies depending on your circumstances, whether through employment, family, or investment routes. It's advisable to seek professional immigration advice before making the move.

Can British expats get British food delivered to the USA?

Yes. BritishGram.com ships authentic British food, snacks, drinks and grocery staples directly from the UK to any US address. Most orders arrive within 5 to 14 business days.

Do British driving licences work in the USA?

A UK driving licence is generally valid in the USA for a short period after arrival, but requirements vary by state. Most states require you to obtain a local licence within 30 to 90 days of establishing residency.

Stock Up on British Food for Your American Home

Whether you've just arrived in the USA or you've been here for years, BritishGram.com is your most reliable source of authentic British food delivered to your door in America. Browse the full range and place your first order today.