Pack like a pro for your NYC adventure with Discovery Bank

Packing for a trip to New York City can be as exciting as planning your itinerary. From skyscrapers to street food, the city offers endless adventures, and being prepared means you can enjoy every moment.

If you've planned a visit to the Big Apple for work or pleasure (or you're the very lucky winner of the current Discovery Bank and United Airlines' competition!) here's a handy checklist to help you pack smart for your NYC adventure.

1. Safely store physical and digital travel documents

Even in the digital age, having physical copies of important documents can be a lifesaver. Remember to pack your passport (with necessary visas), travel insurance details and flight itinerary.

Remember to keep digital backups of these on your phone.

2. Get the right footwear to traipse without tiring

New York is a walking city, so comfortable shoes are non-negotiable. Sneakers or cushioned boots will keep your feet happy as you roam the hard concrete streets, stroll through Central Park or navigate the subway.

NYC is also the most densely populated major city in the United States, and so closed shoes may be more protective from the elements than open ones!

3. A fashion capital still requires weather-appropriate clothing!

NYC is the place to accessorise with style - but don't forget the smarts! The weather can vary greatly, depending on the season.

• Winter: Bring a heavy coat, scarf, gloves, and insulated boots.
• Spring or Autumn: Layer up with a light jacket and versatile clothing.
• Summer: It can get suprisingly hot and humid, so think breathable fabrics, sunglasses, hats and sunscreen.

Remember, the city can get chilly indoors due to air conditioning, so keep a light jersey or jacket handy even in summer. It's also smart to carry a small, foldable umbrella - because NYC weather loves surprises!

4. Personal care and comfort items

With so much to explore, you'll want to stay energised. Carry a compact backpack for daily essentials like snacks and a refillable water bottle. NYC has plenty of clean water fountains, and staying hydrated is key for full-day adventures.

You could also keep these in arm's reach for a stress-free journey:

• For the flight - a travel pillow, ear plugs and eye mask
• On arrival, travel-size toiletries (NYC hotels often provide the basics)
• Medications and a mini first-aid kit
• For exploring the city - sunscreen, lip balm and hand sanitiser

Tip: If you're a Discovery Bank client with Vitality, you can earn up to 50% back on thousands of HealthyCare items at Clicks or Dis-Chem, so it's easy to stock up on personal care items for less before your journey.

5. Tech must-haves

Your tech arsenal will help you navigate the city with ease. Don't forget:

• A universal power adapter (the US uses Type A and B plugs).
• A portable charger or battery for on-the-go power boosts.
• Noise-cancelling headphones for the plane ride and subway journeys.
• A good camera or smartphone for capturing memories.

Tip: Shop at Incredible with your virtual card and get up to 15% back with the Home Partner benefit.

6. Essential apps

Load your phone with apps that make NYC more accessible:

• Google Maps: For navigation, including subway routes.
• Yelp: Find highly rated eateries and activities.
• TodayTix: Snag discounted Broadway tickets.
• NYC Ferry App: Easy bookings for scenic rides.

7. Currency and payment essentials

While card payments are widely accepted, it's wise to have a small amount of cash for food carts and tipping. With Discovery Bank, you can effortlessly exchange Rands for US Dollars with our Real-Time Forex accounts. You can then link this account to a virtual card to simply and safely tap your smart device and make a payment. Learn to create a virtual card here.

Enter today for the experience of a liftetime

An NYC adventure could be closer than you think. Discovery Bank and United Airlines are giving away two return tickets to New York City, plus 100,000 Ðiscovery Miles.

1. Comment and tag a friend on the competition post on Facebook or X.
2. Share the post for another entry.
3. For bonus entries, book a United Airlines ticket through Vitality Travel.

How to use your 100,000 Ðiscovery Miles

Winning this competition doesn't just mean flights to NYC, you'll also have 100,000 Ðiscovery Miles to enhance your trip. Here's how to make the most of them:

• Upgrade your luggage: Enjoy discounts when you invest in quality travel gear at Ðiscovery Miles retail partners. Using Ðiscovery Miles to help fund your purchase on Miles Ð-Day will save you even more!
• Accommodation: Use your Ðiscovery Miles to book your NYC accommodation with booking.com through the Vitality Travel platform.
• Additional flights: Want to explore more of the US? Use your Ðiscovery Miles to book a flight from NYC to a must-see destination.
• Entertainment: You can also buy vouchers in the Discovery Bank app for Netflix, Showmax and Spotify using your Ðiscovery Miles. Stay entertained during your flight or on the subway!
• Clothing and footware: Gear up with the right kit for your trip. Shop at our retail partners like Cape Union Mart, Forever New, Old Khaki, Poetry and get up to 15% discount with your Ðiscovery Miles.

Whether you're packing for your first trip to NYC or your tenth, winning this competition will make it an experience like no other. Enter today and start dreaming!

The Future of Banking. Now.

Rewards based on your engagement in Vitality programmes, Discovery products, and monthly qualifying card spend. Discovery Bank Auth FSP48657. Limits, Ts&Cs apply.