10 Things That Are Shockingly Easy in the UK but a Nightmare in the US
10 Things That Are Shockingly Easy in the UK but a Nightmare in the US
Imagine living in a place where everyday tasks are a breeze, from getting cash to hopping on a bus. That’s the reality in the UK for many things that Americans find frustratingly difficult. This article explores ten everyday activities that are surprisingly easy in the UK compared to the US, shedding light on these differences and maybe even sparking a bit of envy!
1. Free ATMs Everywhere
In the UK, grabbing cash is as simple as walking to the nearest ATM without worrying about those annoying fees. Whether you’re in a bustling city or a quiet village, ATMs are plentiful, and most don’t charge a penny for withdrawals, no matter your bank. Contrast this with the US, where finding an ATM for your specific bank to avoid fees can feel like a treasure hunt. This convenience in the UK removes a small, but significant, daily hassle.
2. Buying Alcohol in Supermarkets
In Britain, picking up a bottle of wine or a six-pack is as easy as adding it to your grocery cart. Supermarkets have a wide selection, and you don’t have to make an extra stop at a special liquor store. On the other hand, many states in the US require you to visit a state-licensed liquor store to purchase your alcoholic beverages, making spontaneous celebrations a bit harder to get off the ground.
3. Shorter Wait Times for Medical Appointments
Getting a doctor’s appointment in the UK is generally a straightforward affair. Thanks to the National Health Service (NHS), seeing a GP often only takes a few days to a week. Over in the US, scheduling an appointment can be a months-long wait, turning what should be a routine part of healthcare into a logistical headache.
4. Getting a Passport
UK citizens can get a new passport or renew an old one within just a few weeks, often without leaving the comfort of their home, thanks to online applications. In contrast, Americans can find themselves waiting months, especially during busy travel periods or staffing shortages, making spontaneous international trips nearly impossible.
5. Public Transport in Cities
Cities like London, Manchester, and Edinburgh are well-equipped with a network of buses and trains that are reliable and cover vast areas, making car-free living entirely feasible. In the US, except for a few cities like New York or Chicago, public transport options are often limited, less reliable, and not as well integrated, making getting around without a car a real challenge.
6. Contactless Payments Everywhere
The UK has embraced contactless payments wholeheartedly. Just tap your card or phone, and you’re done. No signatures, no fuss. This shift to tap-and-go technology across the pond has made transactions quicker and easier. Meanwhile, in the US, many places still require signatures or haven’t adopted contactless tech as widely, slowing things down just when you want to be on your way.
7. Buying a SIM Card
In the UK, if you need mobile service, you can simply walk into any store, buy a SIM card for a low price, and start using it right away. There are no complicated contracts or credit checks. This is very different in the US, where obtaining a SIM often involves credit checks and cumbersome service agreements, adding layers of complexity to what should be a simple process.
8. No Surprise Bills at the Doctor
One of the most appreciated aspects of the UK’s healthcare system is knowing that a visit to the doctor won’t end with a hefty bill. Unlike in the US, where a simple appointment can result in unexpected charges, Brits benefit from the NHS covering the essentials without the fear of surprise fees.
9. Taking a Day Trip to Another Country
Living in the UK makes visiting another country as easy as a day trip. Fancy a quick jaunt to Paris or a weekend in Rome? It’s all just a short flight or train ride away. For Americans, international travel involves longer flights and is typically much more costly and time-consuming.
10. Walking Places
In many UK cities, walking is not only possible; it’s often the most pleasant way to get around. Compact city designs and well-maintained footpaths make it practical and enjoyable. In contrast, many US cities are designed with cars in mind, making walking impractical or sometimes downright unsafe due to the lack of infrastructure like sidewalks or pedestrian crossings.
Each of these examples highlights how the UK makes certain aspects of daily life easier, allowing for more spontaneous living and fewer everyday frustrations compared to the US.
We are Mary and Eric, the founders of Be Right Back, a blog dedicated to romance around the globe and at home.
We are Mary and Eric, the founders of Be Right Back, a blog dedicated to romance around the globe and at home. With over 10 years of experience in dating and traveling to romantic places, we share our favorite date ideas and romantic destinations to help couples level up their relationships. Having lived in and traveled through the USA, we also share our favourite things to do in the States.
With 70,000 monthly readers and 16,000 followers on social media, Be Right Back is your go-to resource for romantic trip ideas and couple activities at home and abroad.