It is a new year and there is a lot of excitement we are expecting this year in the world of travel. There are both new travel requirements and new experiences coming this year. If you plan to travel in 2025, be sure to read this article about this year’s travel trends.
New Regulations for 2025
Real ID
We have been hearing about Real ID for quite a while now. It was repeatedly pushed back, but now that all states are in compliance, the official start date is May 7, 2025. This means you will need to show a form of Real ID at the TSA security checkpoint when traveling on a domestic flight. You can use a valid passport, a driver’s license or state ID with the Real ID designation of a star. For the most up to date information or how to get a real ID you can visit the DHS website for Real ID.
United Kingdom Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA)
As of January 8, 2025, travelers to the United Kingdom (UK) need an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA). This requirement applies to US citizens, Canadian citizens, and many non-European passport holders. You will need this authorization both for traveling TO the UK or traveling THROUGH the UK. For Example, if you have a flight connection in Heathrow, London, you will need to complete this authorization.
Keep in mind this is for all of the UK so that includes travel to England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, as well as UK Overseas Territories. It can take a few days to process but it is valid for 2 years or until your passport expires (whichever is shorter). Everyone needs to complete this process, including children and babies.
The best way to apply is through the app, but you can get more information on the ETA Website too.
EU Travel Authorization – ETIAS
Currently postponed to 2027, U.S. citizens visiting 30 European countries (members of the EU) will need to apply online for travel authorization through the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS).
To get all the details and how to apply you will want to visit the official ETIAS website.
New Destinations for 2025
There are also some really exciting new destinations opening in 2025 that will influence this year’s travel trends. Here are a few we are most excited about.
Universal’s Epic Universe
Opening May 22, 2025 Universal Orlando’s newest and largest (by far) park will be opening. It will have new lands such as How to Train a Dragon, Super Nintendo World, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic, and Dark Universe.
This exciting new park opening also brings three new hotels, including Helios Grand Hotel, a luxury hotel that will have a private entrance into Epic Universe. The other two hotels, Stella Nova and Terra Luna bring more options in the Prime Value category.
This is going to be EPIC!!!
New Cruise Ships
There are lots of new cruise ships coming in 2025. Here are a few of the ones we are most excited about.
Disney Destiny
This new Disney Cruise Line ship in the Wish class (similar to the Disney Wish and the Disney Treasure) will be the first cruise ship with a hero/villains theme. It will be sailing year round from their new terminal in Fort Lauderdale. It will have its maiden voyage in November 2025 and is currently available for booking.
Star of the Seas
This will be Royal Caribbean’s newest (2nd) ship in the Icon Class. It will start sailing from its home port, Port Canaveral, August 31, 2025. This ship is available for booking now!
Norwegian Aqua
This will be Norwegian Cruise Lines’s first ship in the new Prima Plus Class. It will start cruising in April 2025 to places such as The Bahamas, Bermuda, and the Caribbean. It will sail from both Miami, New York, and Port Canaveral.
Ready for the 2025 Travel Trends?
Are you ready for what is coming in 2025? Are you still looking for ideas for your 2025 trip? We are here to help. Let us find the right trip for you.
