Big Travel Changes in 2025: What You Need to Know Before Your Next Adventure

Jessica Salonna
Feb 28
3 min read

Hello Beautiful Souls,

If travel is on your vision board for 2025, whether it’s a long-awaited getaway, a dream retreat (maybe even Italy with me this August!), or a spontaneous adventure, there are some important updates you need to know about.

New travel rules are kicking in, including ID requirements for U.S. flights, a new pre-travel authorization for Europe, and better airline protections. No need to stress—I’ve got you covered with everything you need to know to keep your travels smooth, easy, and full of joy.

Let’s dive in!

REAL ID: What It Means for Your Domestic Flights

This one’s important if you’re flying within the U.S., but it’s NOT required for international travel—so don’t worry about it for Italy or anywhere else abroad.

Starting May 7, 2025, U.S. travelers will need a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or another approved form of identification to board domestic flights.

What you need to do:

✔ Check your driver’s license or state ID—if it has a small star in the upper corner, you’re good to go!

✔ If you don’t have a REAL ID, you’ll need to bring your passport or another approved form of identification when flying domestically.

✔ For international travel, including Italy, all you need is your passport!

Want to check if your ID is compliant or apply for one? Visit: dhs.gov

ETIAS: New Requirement for Travel to Europe

If you’re planning to visit Italy🇮🇹 (or anywhere in the Schengen Zone) in 2025, this one’s for you!

The European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) is a new pre-travel requirement for U.S. travelers starting mid-2025. It’s not a visa, but it does mean one more step before heading to Europe.

Here’s what to know:

✔ You’ll need to apply for ETIAS authorization online before traveling—it’s simple, just fill out a form and pay a €7 fee.

✔ Once approved, your ETIAS is valid for three years (or until your passport expires).

✔ It allows multiple short-term trips—you can stay in Europe up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

✔ Double-check your passport info when applying—if there’s a mistake, you could be denied entry.

For the latest updates and to apply when it goes live, visit: travel-europe.europa.eu

**Transend & Thrive Women's Empowerment Retreat 2025!**

New Airline Passenger Protections (Finally!)

Ever had a flight canceled and had to fight for a refund? Or paid extra for WiFi that didn’t even work? Not anymore!

New Department of Transportation (DOT) rules are here to make air travel easier and more transparent.

✔ If your flight is canceled or significantly delayed, airlines must automatically refund you—no more chasing them down.

✔ If your baggage is delayed by 12+ hours (domestic) or 15-30 hours (international), you’ll get a refund on baggage fees.

✔ If you paid for extras like WiFi or seat upgrades but didn’t get them, you’ll get an automatic refund.

✔ Airlines must provide 24/7 customer service, so you’re not left on hold forever.

For full details, check out the updated DOT airline rules: transportation.gov

How to Get Travel-Ready for 2025

Because nothing kills those vacay vibes faster than scrambling for documents at the last minute—let’s make sure you’re all set before you’re sipping that airport latte or boarding your flight to your next adventure!

✔ Check Your ID: If you’re flying within the U.S., make sure your driver’s license is REAL ID-compliant or just use your passport.

✔ Plan for ETIAS: If you’re heading to Italy (or anywhere in Europe), be ready to apply online once the system is live in mid-2025.

✔ Don’t Wait Until the Last Minute: These new systems take time, so the sooner you double-check your travel documents, the better.

Where Are You Headed in 2025?

Whether you’re booking a bucket-list adventure, joining me in Italy for our transformational retreat, or just dreaming of your next getaway, these changes will help you travel with ease and confidence.

If you have any questions about these updates, drop a comment or reach out—I’m always happy to help.

Where’s your next adventure taking you? Whether you're planning a dream getaway, looking for the perfect retreat experience, or just getting inspired for future travels, I'd love to hear what's on your bucket list! And if you're craving something truly transformational, keep an eye out for my upcoming retreats—you never know where we’ll be headed next!

With Love & Gratitude,

Jessica Jane 🦋