Top 5 Travel Rule Changes for 2025 You Must Know

As 2025 approaches, the world of travel is changing, and staying informed about new regulations is essential. From domestic flights in the United States to international trips in Europe, several critical updates could affect your plans. By understanding these changes ahead of time, you can avoid stress and save time during your travels.

Here are the top 5 travel rule changes for 2025 that every traveler should know.

Real ID: Mandatory for U.S. Domestic Flights

Starting May 7, 2025, travelers in the U.S. over 18 will need a Real ID-compliant license or an alternative ID like a U.S. passport to fly domestically.

• What is Real ID?
  Real ID is a federally approved identification card featuring a star in the top corner, signifying it meets enhanced security standards. Non-compliant state IDs will no longer be valid for flights or entry into certain federal facilities.

• How to Prepare:

  • Check your current ID for the star marking.

  • Visit your local DMV to upgrade your license, bringing proof of identity, Social Security number, and residency.

  • Apply early to avoid the last-minute rush as the deadline approaches.

Alternative - No need to rush out and get your Real ID. If you have a valid passport, that can be used instead of the Real ID. If you don’t have either…😮

ETIAS: Europe’s New Pre-Travel Authorization System

Planning a trip to Europe? Travelers from visa-free countries (like the United States) will need ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) approval starting in 2025.

• Who Needs ETIAS?
  Citizens of visa-free countries, including the U.S., Canada, and Australia, must obtain ETIAS before entering the Schengen Zone. This includes 27 European countries like Italy, Germany, Portugal, Spain and France.

• How It Works:

  • Submit an online application with personal and travel details.

  • Pay a €7 fee (free for travelers under 18).

  • Receive your approval, often within minutes.

  • ETIAS is valid for multiple entries, up to three years or until your passport expires.

Pro Tip: Apply at least a few weeks in advance of your trip to account for potential delays. Visit the ETIAS official website for details.

Extra Tip: Traveling to and from London? Starting January 8, 2025, U.S. citizens traveling to the UK will need to apply for a UK ETA, which is a separate system from the EU's ETIAS. Click here to apply.

Airline Refund Rules for Delays and Baggage Issues

The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) has implemented new rules in 2025 to protect air travelers from delays and baggage mishaps.

• Cash Refunds for Delays:
  Airlines must automatically refund passengers for significant delays or cancellations.

  • Domestic flights: 3+ hours.

  • International flights: 6+ hours.

• Baggage Fee Refunds:
  Airlines must refund checked baggage fees if luggage is delayed beyond a specified time frame.

How to Ensure Refunds:

• Track your flight status using airline apps.

• Save your receipts for tickets and baggage fees.

• If issues arise, file a claim directly with the airline or through the DOT consumer portal.

These changes aim to make air travel more transparent and reduce passenger inconveniences.

EXTRA: This law has been in place in the EU since 2005. Stay tuned for a future post where we discuss how we utilized this on our last trip.

Enhanced Luggage Tracking with Apple AirTags

The new collaboration between Apple and airlines makes luggage tracking with AirTags even more effective in 2025.

• What’s New?
  Airlines now support direct integration with AirTags, allowing them to access real-time location data for lost or delayed luggage. Travelers also receive real-time updates on their bags via airline apps or their Apple devices.

• How to Set It Up:

  1. Pair your AirTag with the “Find My” app on your Apple device.

  2. Attach the AirTag to your luggage securely, ideally inside the bag.

  3. Enable location sharing with your airline to streamline the tracking process.

With this innovation, travelers can enjoy greater peace of mind, knowing their luggage is always traceable.

Online Passport Renewal for U.S. Citizens

Renewing your passport just got easier in 2025! U.S. citizens can now take advantage of the online passport renewal system introduced by the U.S. Department of State.

• How It Works:

  • Eligible citizens with undamaged passports issued within the last 15 years can renew online.

  • Visit the State Department’s portal, upload your photo, and pay renewal fees digitally.

  • Track your application status online for real-time updates.

Pro Tips:

• Ensure your digital photo meets official passport photo requirements.

• Apply several months before your planned travel to account for processing times, especially during peak seasons.

This new system eliminates paperwork, reduces waiting times, and makes keeping your passport up-to-date more convenient than ever.

Conclusion

Travel in 2025 is full of new possibilities, but preparation is key to avoiding unnecessary surprises. From meeting the Real ID requirements to navigating Europe’s ETIAS, taking advantage of airline refunds, utilizing AirTags for luggage tracking, and renewing passports online, these updates are designed to enhance your travel experience.

Stay informed, plan ahead, and embrace these changes for smoother, stress-free adventures in the year ahead!

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✨ Safe Travels & Happy Landings! Thank you for flying with us on this newsletter journey. Until next time, keep your passports ready and your adventures grand!