NEW Travel Rules You Need to Know in 2025

Summary

In 2025, travelers will face significant changes that could impact their journeys. U.S. citizens must obtain a Real ID for domestic flights, and Europe will implement the ETIAS system for visa-free travelers. New U.S. regulations require automatic refunds for flight cancellations and delays, and airlines are now required to reimburse checked baggage fees for delays. A partnership between Apple and airlines allows better tracking of lost luggage using AirTags. Lastly, U.S. passport renewals are now available online. Stay informed to avoid headaches and enjoy a smoother travel experience in 2025.

Takeaways

• 😀 Starting May 7th, 2025, U.S. travelers flying domestically will need a Real ID or an alternative ID like a U.S. passport or military ID to board flights.
• 😀 A Real ID is a federally approved identification, indicated by a star in the top right corner of a driver's license or state ID.
• 😀 If your ID doesn’t have a star, you’ll need to upgrade it to a Real ID before flying domestically in the U.S. after May 7, 2025.
• 😀 U.S. travelers can still fly without a Real ID if they use a passport, passport card, Global Entry card, or a military ID.
• 😀 Starting in mid-2025, U.S. and Canadian citizens will need to apply for the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) before entering the Schengen Zone.
• 😀 ETIAS is an online pre-travel screening system costing €7, designed to improve security and streamline border crossings into the Schengen Zone for visa-free travelers.
• 😀 Airlines must now issue automatic cash refunds for flight cancellations or significant delays (more than 3 hours domestically, 6 hours internationally), including weather-related disruptions.
• 😀 Airlines are also required to automatically reimburse checked bag fees if luggage is delayed by 12+ hours domestically or 15–30 hours internationally.
• 😀 With a new collaboration between Apple and major airlines, AirTags can now be used to share real-time location data with airlines if your luggage is lost, helping speed up the retrieval process.
• 😀 Starting in 2025, U.S. citizens can renew their passports online, eliminating the need for printing forms and mailing them in, streamlining the renewal process.

Q & A

What is a Real ID, and why is it important for travelers in 2025?

A Real ID is a federally approved identification card required for domestic flights within the USA starting May 7th, 2025. It helps to prevent fraud and confirm your identity. If your driver's license has a star in the top right corner, you're good to go. If not, you’ll need to upgrade at your local DMV.

How can I check if my current ID is a Real ID?

You can check if your ID is a Real ID by looking for a star in the top right corner of your driver’s license or state ID. If the star is there, you're already compliant. If it’s not, you’ll need to upgrade to a Real ID.

What is ETIAS, and how does it affect travelers from the US and Canada?

ETIAS stands for European Travel Information and Authorization System. It’s a pre-travel screening system for travelers from visa-free countries (like the US and Canada) to the Schengen Zone in Europe. Starting mid-2025, travelers will need to apply for ETIAS before entering, which is a quick, online process costing €7.

What is the Schengen Zone?

The Schengen Zone is a group of European countries that have abolished border controls between them. It's not the same as the European Union, though many EU countries are part of it. Popular tourist destinations like France, Germany, and Spain are in the Schengen Zone.

How do I apply for ETIAS, and is it expensive?

To apply for ETIAS, visit the official website, fill out a quick online application, and provide basic details like passport information and travel plans. The application costs €7, and it's free for travelers under 18 or over 70.

What changes have been made regarding flight cancellations and refunds in 2025?

Starting in 2025, if your flight is cancelled or significantly delayed (more than 3 hours domestically or 6 hours internationally), airlines must issue you a cash refund automatically. No more jumping through hoops to request your refund!

What new rules are in place for luggage delays and baggage fees?

If your checked luggage is delayed by 12+ hours domestically or 15-30 hours internationally, you're entitled to a refund of your baggage fee. Just file a mishandled baggage report, and the refund will be processed automatically.

How does the new partnership between Apple and airlines help travelers with lost luggage?

Thanks to a new partnership, travelers using Apple AirTags can now share their bag's location with airlines if it’s lost. The airline can track your bag in real time using the link provided by the traveler, helping to reunite you with your luggage faster.

Which airlines are participating in the new AirTag luggage tracking system?

Over 15 major airlines, including Delta, United, British Airways, and Qantas, are rolling out the AirTag luggage tracking feature. This partnership allows airlines to view your bag’s location in real time through the Find My app.

Can I renew my passport online now? How does it work?

Yes, US citizens can now renew their passports online. The process eliminates the need for printing forms and mailing them in. You simply complete the online renewal process, and if you qualify, your new passport will be mailed to you.

Why is therapy mentioned in the video, and how does it relate to preparing for 2025?

The video suggests that investing in your mental health through therapy is just as important as staying informed about travel updates. Therapy can help you handle stress, build healthy habits, and foster personal growth, making it easier to navigate all the changes and challenges in the new year.