Traveling in 2025: Essential Insights for Domestic and Global Adventures

Commencing in 2025, tourists will be influenced by global travel alterations, alongside modifications in domestic flight ID regulations for U.S. passengers. Concurrently, beneficial consumer protections are finally being established, and several airlines have revealed exciting cabin renovations.

REAL ID status for domestic air travel

Changes for domestic air travel in the United States will take effect on May 7, 2025, with the long-awaited advent of the REAL ID. Following numerous delays since the legislation was first proposed in 2007, the new federal regulations regarding the use of drivers’ licenses and government-issued ID cards at airport security checks appear set to be executed.

Presently, most recently issued ID cards are compliant with REAL ID requirements, but travelers possessing older documents should verify with their respective state agency.

Further details regarding REAL ID in each state can be found on the Department of Homeland Security website. The documentation required for application varies by state but will typically include evidence of identity, confirmation as a U.S. resident or citizen, a Social Security number, and verification of a current address. Valid passports, of course, continue to be a recognized form of identification for both domestic and international travel.

Visiting the UK with ETA

Additional adjustments for U.S. nationals traveling to the United Kingdom are underway with the extension of the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) program. Starting January 8, 2025, ETA registration will be mandatory for inbound travelers from the U.S. and Europe.

Inspired by the United States’ Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA), the ETA permits UK authorities to evaluate visitors prior to their arrival, aiming to minimize security threats and optimize border entry. The ETA is not a visa and does not substitute any existing visa conditions.

U.S. citizens intending to travel to the UK on or after January 8 should apply through the UK government’s official website or the ETA app. A United Kingdom ETA costs £10, roughly $13. Once acquired, the ETA allows for multiple entries into the UK over a two-year span.

Navigating Europe’s updated entry and exit regulations

Although a specific date has yet to be declared, 30 European nations will commence the enforcement of the European Union’s European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) in 2025. This new authorization protocol will necessitate individuals from over 60 visa-exempt countries, including U.S. citizens, to obtain travel authorization prior to entering 30 European nations. Similar to the UK’s ETA program, ETIAS does not substitute any current visa requirements but aims to enhance security within Europe’s Schengen Area.

Travelers granted ETIAS travel authorization will be permitted multiple entries into participating countries for short-term periods, generally up to 90 days within a 180-day timeframe. ETIAS remains valid for a maximum of three years, and a new ETIAS travel authorization must be obtained if a passport expires.

This system will operate alongside the new Entry/Exit System (EES), which will document biometric information at passport checkpoints for both visa-free and visa-required travelers entering Europe for short visits. The EES does not necessitate any action from travelers.

Enhanced consumer safeguards for U.S. air travel

The final aspects of the ‘final rule’ from the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) are being put into practice. Announced in April 2024, the ‘final rule’ prohibits U.S. airline operators from determining when refunds are deemed suitable after significant alterations.

This term has now been specified for the first time and encompasses: departure or arrival alterations exceeding three hours (domestic) and six hours (international); changes in airports or the total number of connections; downgrades in cabin class; or accessibility issues for travelers with disabilities. There are also fresh compensation guidelines for significantly delayed baggage or additional services (like Wi-Fi that were paid for but not provided).

The DOT has additionally collaborated with the Federal Trade Commission to eliminate concealed ‘junk fees’ for families desiring to be seated together.

The new online U.S. passport renewal procedure

As of September 2024, it has become feasible for U.S. citizens to renew their passports online rather than in person. The system is now entirely functional, provided applicants meet certain fundamental criteria.

For instance, the holder must reside within the United States and be over the age of 25. Their passport must have remained valid for 10 years without any changes in name, gender, or date/place of birth.

Applicants should establish an account atMyTravelGov and proceed to the procedure via the “Renew Your Passport” button. Notifications via email regarding application status are accessible after one week, and candidates will be informed about inquiries and approvals, in addition to when the new passport is on its way.   

Airline updates you ought to be aware of

No specific date has been revealed yet, but American Airlines is anticipated to launch its new Flagship Suites business class offering in 2025. Enhanced features will offer increased comfort, privacy doors, wireless charging, and Bluetooth functionality.

Frontier Airlines will introduce a new first class cabin, expected to be accessible in late 2025. There’s also good news for Delta passengers, as the airline will be refurbishing its cabins throughout its fleet, commencing with the Boeing 757 aircraft before moving on to the Airbus A350 models. JetBlue is set to unveil  branded lounges at New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) Terminal 5 in late 2025 and at Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) Terminal C shortly thereafter.