Information for International Travelers

American Express Traveler's Cheques may still be redeemed or purchased at specific locations but prepaid cards are replacing them. Eugene AAA no longer sells traveler's cheques but may offer travel insurance or other financial benefits and services to AAA members.

Due to pandemic protocols, some restaurants or stores switched to cashless transactions as their preferred method of payment. Ordering and payment are done on tablets, so be prepared with a card for those digital destinations. 

Best to plan ahead and pre-purchase any needed recreation and park permits, but if you find that you need to purchase a parking permit at a trailhead, some kiosks will only accept card payment.

Use your credit or debit card at a bank or local ATM to withdraw money.

If you are are traversing the back roads through Oregon Wine Country or agricultural lands, you'll want to have cash with you for shopping at farm stands. Many operate on the honor system, so bring small bills so you can leave exact amounts. 

It varies by state, but in Oregon, there isn't any retail sales tax! So that makes it easier knowing what you'll be charged at the grocery store or retail store cash register. However, there are taxes and fees that will appear on your hotel room bill as applicable by region. 

One extra charge that you may incur at the cash register is a shopping bag fee. Complimentary plastic and paper bags were restricted several years back, so when grocery or retail shopping in Eugene — bring your own reusable bag or plan on purchasing a paper bag for .05 at check out. You can also purchase re-usable shopping bags of varying quality at markets and retail outlets.

Waitstaff live off their tips in the United States. Their base pay is minimal, so remember that when dining out. For sit down service, gratuities customarily range from 15-20% of your total bill, depending on the quality of service you received. 

At food trucks, take-out windows and coffee carts there is usually a tip jar — drop in your change or a few dollars to thank them. When ordering drinks directly from a bartender, it is customary to tip them one to three dollars tip too, depending on what you ordered and how many drinks. 

Shuttle drivers, cabs, baggage attendants, stylists and spa service providers are generally tipped $1 a bag, or 10% to 20% of the bill, to reflect the level of service provided.

Please refrain from smoking in all public, indoor spaces in Oregon. Check with your hotel regarding permitted smoking areas in or around the building as smoking is not allowed in hotel rooms.

When smoking outside, per smoking regulations, you must be at least 10 feet (3 m) away from business doorways, entrances, exits, accessibility ramps, intake values and windows. Twenty feet (6 m) from others is considerate. This includes electronic cigarettes and vaping. Always dispose of cigarettes properly.

Cannabis is legal to purchase and consume recreationally but there are laws guiding the sale and use of cannabis.

Find out if you are eligible to drive in the United States. Contact the Oregon DMV to see what documentation you need. 

Drive on the right side of the roadway, and give right-of-way to pedestrians. Cyclists are expected to follow driving laws, you'll note that green pavement area is reserved for cycling traffic.

What happens at the gas pump varies state by state. Here in Oregon, attendants pump your gas for you — unless it is a remote community and late hours or odd hours. When you pull up to the pump, just stay in your car and the gas station attendant will handle the transaction for you.

Many residents ride bicycles on the extensive bike path system throughout the communities. Bicycles are expected to follow traffic laws, and children are required to wear bicycle helmets. Unfortunately, bike theft is a problem, so always lock your bike securely. 

Bicycles can also be loaded onto public buses which run, not just around town, but between communities. The public bus system is fairly comprehensive with central hubs in downtown Eugene and downtown Springfield. There are some taxi and shuttle services and you can call for Uber or Lyft if you have an account and app downloaded on your phone.

To travel to Portland or along the west coast, Amtrak provides train services. There is a train depot in downtown Eugene.

The Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) is the official licensing bureau and can provide you traffic law materials.

Eugene AAA is a membership based organization, so unless you are a member services may be limited. They provide maps, travel arrangements, prepaid credit cards, travel and life insurance and emergency roadside assistance.

If you are heading out toward the Oregon Coast or up into the Cascade Mountains, be prepared that your cell service coverage may be spotty or not be available. Download or print out a paper map and have the information you needed before heading out.public transportation/getting around.

The region offers many outdoor recreational adventures with hiking, waterfall viewing, lakes and hot springs. Dress for changing weather conditions, pack food and water, and always let someone know where you plan to go.