Expert opinion: Tour group or solo in the States?

Matthew Cameron-Smith is the managing director of Trafalgar and CostSaver, Australia, with 26 years' experience in the travel industry.

Q. The United States is still hugely popular although it's expensive for Aussie travellers these days. Is it better to take a tour or travel independently?

A. The Australian dollar may have weakened against the American dollar but that doesn't mean travellers should dismiss the US as an unaffordable destination. Keeping a lid on costs can be tricky when travelling independently. On top of the organisational hurdles there are the ongoing costs such as airport transfers, car hire, admission and buying maps and guide books. A guided holiday is a great way to keep these costs down and ensure a hassle-free holiday with everything covered. The connections and buying power of tour operators allows us to guarantee value at the best hotels with iconic North American breakfasts included. There's no need to worry about finding a car park, lugging heavy suitcases, tipping guides or designating a driver as all these details have been arranged and included in the overall price meaning no surprise charges. And forget those long lines at the attractions, fast-track entry at sites such as Graceland and the Grand Canyon gives travellers on a guided tour a VIP experience. trafalgar.com.au