international travel
Tennessee is a lot closer than you think. Here are some ways to help make your long-distance travel feel more like a nonstop breeze.
GETTING AROUND
Getting around Tennessee is easy, with well-connected highways that offer seamless routes between cities.
Travel Facts
What should I know about tipping and tax in Tennessee?
- A standard tip for good service is 15-20% of the bill.
- Bars: A tip of $1-$2 per drink is standard.
- taxis ride-shares: A 15% tip is common.
- Tennessee has sales tax of 7%, plus local sales taxes that can bring the total up to 9.75% in some areas. This means that when you shop for clothing, souvenirs, or dine at restaurants, the final price will likely be higher than the listed price.
What is the weather like in Tennessee?
- Tennessee's climate varies from east to west, but it is generally considered to be moderate with four distinct seasons.
- The budding of wildflowers and dogwoods occurs in spring, and honeysuckles welcome summer. Fall foliage and crisp air make Tennessee autumns memorable, and wintry weather brings mild flurries of snowfall. Northeastern Tennessee tends to experience more snowfall in the winter due to its lower temperatures and mountain terrain.
- The driest time of the year is typically fall, and most precipitation occurs in winter and early spring. Winters are mild with the average temperature of 40 degrees. Summer months are a prime time for outdoor recreation, with an average temperature of 83 degrees (28 degrees Celsius), but can reach temperatures of up to 100 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius), especially in western and central Tennessee.
What should I pack?
- Packing for Tennessee depends on the season and the part of the state you’re visiting. In general, layers are key—temperatures can vary widely throughout the day. Bring comfortable walking shoes for exploring towns, parks, or hiking trails, and lightweight clothing for spring and summer, along with a light jacket or raincoat, as sudden rain showers are common. For fall and winter, pack warmer layers, such as sweaters, a coat, and gloves, especially if visiting the mountains. Don’t forget sunscreen, bug spray, and a hat for outdoor adventures.
- International travelers should note that the U.S. electrical system operates at 120V. You'll need a travel adapter for your devices, and some appliances may also require a voltage converter to avoid damage.
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What time zone is Tennessee in?
- Tennessee is divided into two time zones: Central Time Zone (CT) and Eastern Time Zone (ET). The majority of the state, including cities like Nashville, Memphis, and Franklin, observes Central Time. However, the eastern portion of the state—covering cities such as Knoxville, Chattanooga, and Johnson City—operates on Eastern Time. The dividing line between the two zones generally follows the eastern borders of Pickett, Fentress, Cumberland, Bledsoe, Sequatchie and Marion Counties. Like most states, Tennessee observes Daylight Saving Time, moving clocks forward one hour in the spring and back one hour in the fall.
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