“Navigating the Future: 6 Shifts That Could Shake Up Travel in 2025”

The previous year yielded several victories for travelers. New regulations simplified the process for passengers to receive reimbursements if they are unable to travel due to flight cancellations or delays. Additionally, adventurous travelers gained increased flexibility in renewing their passports online.

As the new year unfolds, travelers might anticipate additional bureaucratic hurdles and some supplementary charges based on their destinations.

Scott Keyes, an airfare specialist and creator of the budget flight service Going, forecasted that while the year might bring favorable trends (less-populated flights, lower fares to Europe), it could also introduce drawbacks (slightly elevated airfare overall).

He attributes his airfare predictions to challenges faced by budget airlines; Spirit declared bankruptcy last year.

“Spirit and others have long served as anchors in the marketplace, compelling Delta, United, and similar airlines to set lower fares than they desire,” Keyes remarked. However, as some low-cost carriers reduce their service schedules, this may create a cascading impact.

Here’s what else travelers should be aware of in the forthcoming year.

New authorization for U.K. travel

Americans and other travelers exempt from visas, who lack European passports, need to obtain an electronic travel authorization prior to flying to a British airport. This regulation took effect on January 8 and will also extend to those holding European passports starting in early April.

This new authorization, which can be arranged through an application or online, may require up to 72 hours to process. It costs 10 pounds, almost $12.50, and remains valid for two years.

Real ID deadline for air travel

Following numerous delays, the deadline for obtaining a Real ID for air travel is scheduled for May 7. The Transportation Security Administration asserts that fliers must present identification that meets the minimum security standards mandated by a law that’s 20 years old.

While the TSA claims it “fully intends” to initiate enforcement on this early-May date, a new regulation grants the agency the flexibility to adopt a “phased approach.” According to federal records, just over 56% of identifications in circulation were compliant with the standards as of last January. A phased approach introduces a “temporary warning period” for individuals lacking the appropriate identification.

The agency encourages travelers to secure the proper ID or another acceptable identification method, like a passport or a Department of Homeland Security-approved traveler card, by the deadline. The TSA cautioned in a news release last year that those without a compliant ID “could face delays at airport security checkpoints” post-deadline.

John Rose, chief risk officer for the travel agency Altour, expressed understanding if travelers have delayed obtaining the necessary ID. However, he advised against continued postponement.

“The fact is, this is becoming a reality. It represents the next evolution of identification, making travel significantly easier,” he stated. “It makes little sense not to acquire one.”

Keyes mentioned seeing notifications regarding the necessity of a Real ID for several years. His license is due for renewal at the end of the year, and he plans to switch to the new version at that time.

“If it is enforced around mid-year, I might need to ensure I pack my passport for upcoming trips,” he noted.

Increased fees in popular European destinations

Last summer, protests were directed at overtourism in various European cities, and authorities are continuing their efforts to manage excessive crowds during peak periods.

Venice has announced a return of a fee for day visitors on specific dates from April to July – and will impose it on more days than last year. Those who plan ahead and secure bookings at least four days prior will pay 5 euros, while the amount will increase to 10 euros for visitors who book closer to their intended visit.

In Greece, hotel taxes will rise by up to 15 euros daily in the summertime, and the per-day tax on short-term rentals will increase to 8 euros from April to October, as reported by Reuters. Cruise ship passengers arriving at the islands of Santorini and Mykonos during the peak season will incur a fee of 20 euros.

New cruise fees in Mexico

A new charge of $42 per passenger for those on cruises to Mexico is set to be enforced on July 1, although cruise lines and an industry association are contesting its implementation. The Associated Press reported that cruise passengers were previously exempt from this charge, which is an immigration fee predominantly directed towards the Mexican military.

The Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association indicated that the fee had already been postponed from the start of the year to summer. However, the organization warned that this additional charge on cruise travelers might “deter visitors, modify cruise routes, and create economic repercussions in communities heavily dependent on cruise tourism.”

A Mexico-based organization of shipping agents has also opposed the fee. CNN reported that Mexico’s president, Claudia Sheinbaum, stated that the charge is an adjustment of existing fees, citing inflation as a contributing factor.

Carnival Corporation’s CEO, Josh Weinstein, noted that the tax is an unsettled issue.

Southwest seat bookings

The unique airline’s well-known open-seating policy will be phased out, but not until the first half of 2026. Nonetheless, later this year, travelers can expect to choose their seats when booking those future flights –rather than waiting until they board, as is currently the case. Southwest announced the modification last summer and disclosed the timeline in September.

While many loyal customers have lamented the disappearance of such a defining trait, the airline maintains that the change aims to attract a broader customer base. According to Southwest, 80% of its passengers and 86% of those flying with other airlines prefer assigned seating.

New application for traveling to Europe

Americans planning to visit 30 European locations are among the travelers exempt from visas who will need to submit a request for a new travel authorization once it is implemented. The new regulations affect approximately 1.4 billion potential visitors, as per the European Union.

The timing for the long-overdue European Travel Information and Authorization System is still uncertain; it is anticipated to commence six months subsequent to the launch of a new digital entry and exit system, which is expected to occur sometime this year, utilizing biometric data.

As part of this new travel authorization, applicants must complete an online form, pay a fee of 7 euros (approximately $7), and supply standard personal information along with additional details including their education level, occupation, and any criminal records.

Rose stated that the new system will enhance “security and tracking” for individuals navigating through Europe.

“It’s also a significant upgrade for travelers regarding the speed of processing at borders,” he mentioned.

He recommended consulting with a travel advisor once the system is operational to remain current on the requirements.

“Failure to comply could lead to travel delays, which is why it might be somewhat confusing,” he explained. “Whenever something new is introduced, I suggest consulting with experts.”

Keyes remarked that the greatest concern would be travelers neglecting to undergo the application process.

“However, I believe airlines will proactively inform individuals about this,” he added.