ETIAS for European Travel Delayed until 2026
Yes, the implementation of ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) has been delayed. It was originally scheduled to launch in 2022, but it is now expected to start in the last quarter of 2026. This delay allows for more time to implement the Entry/Exit System (EES), which is planned to be operational in October 2025.
ETIAS will be a requirement for non-EU nationals from visa-exempt countries, including the United States, for short-term stays in the Schengen Area. It is not a visa, but rather a travel authorization that will require travelers to complete an online application and pay a fee.
New Items Allowed in Carry-On Bags
In 2025, the TSA has approved several new items for travel, including those previously restricted or subject to size limitations. These include items like prescription and over-the-counter medications, ice packs, food and drink for infants/toddlers, and the list will grow throughout the year. (Check specifics for your air carrier and airport)
Here’s a more detailed breakdown of the new TSA-approved items:
Medications:
Over-the-counter and prescription medications, including those in gel, liquid, or aerosol form, are now allowed without size restrictions.
Medical Essentials:
Ice packs and gel packs for medically necessary items are also permitted, according to The Sun.
Baby and Toddler Needs:
Food and drink for infants and toddlers, including breast milk and baby formula, are allowed in any size.
Duty-Free Items:
Duty-free items sealed in a tamper-evident bag are also approved.
RealID for US Flights
Don’t Get Stuck at the Airport – REAL ID Required for All U.S. Flights!
Who needs a REAL ID?
Every traveler 18 and older taking a domestic flight Even if you’re not flying often, you’ll need it for future trips If your driver’s license doesn’t have a star in the corner, it’s time to update!
How to get yours:
Visit your local DMV with the required documents (each state has slightly different rules) Don’t wait—processing times may increase as the deadline gets closer
Travel to the UK
Effective January 8, 2025, all U.S. citizens transiting through or traveling to the United Kingdom for tourism, family visits, business meetings, conferences, or short-term study for 6 months or less will require an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) prior to travel.
The ETA is for all parts of the UK, including Northern Ireland and British Overseas Territories.
You will need the ETA even if you just have a layover at a UK airport, on your way to the EU or another country.
Find the latest ETA updates for the UK here.
Travel to Australia in 2025
For travel to Australia in 2025, all non-Australian citizens will need a valid passport and a visa to enter the country, meaning you must apply for a visa before traveling, regardless of your nationality; most visitors will likely need to obtain an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) which can be applied for online.
You can find current visa information here.
Travel to New Zealand in 2025
To visit New Zealand from the United States in 2025, you’ll need:
Passport: A valid passport that’s valid for at least three months after your planned departure date from New Zealand
New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA): You can apply for an NZeTA on the New Zealand Immigration website. The NZeTA costs NZ$12 and is valid for two years for travelers and five years for crew members.
New Zealand Traveller Declaration (NZTD): You can complete the NZTD online at www.TravellerDeclaration.govt.nz or by downloading the NZTD app. The NZTD collects information about your travel history, health, and any goods you’re bringing into New Zealand. You must complete the NZTD before reaching passport control in New Zealand.
Delayed Flights in 2025
The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) announced a rulemaking “to protect passengers stranded by airlines canceling or significantly changing their flights.” This rule would require airlines to pay passengers cash compensation, rebook them for free on the next available flight, and cover meals, overnight lodging and related transportation expenses when a disruption is airline-caused. This rulemaking follows on the launch of the DOT’s “Automatic Refund Rule,” which requires airlines to provide automatic cash refunds to passengers when owed.
Edinburgh Tourist Tax
Starting on July 24, 2026: Edinburgh is set to become Scotland’s first city with a tourist tax. Edinburgh city counsellors have voted in favor of a 5% fee for overnight stays at hotels, bed and breakfasts, self-catering accommodations, and short-term homestays like Airbnb. The tourist tax is applied per night for up to five consecutive nights.
Our Role as your Travel Advisor
Updated as of April 13, 2020
In reviewing the last update that we issued, it feels like it’s been quite a bit longer than a month from our date of initial reporting.
We have hunkered down, as have all world citizens, and are adjusting to the reality that may stay with us for a little longer. I hope that you will see that we are all doing well!
At the moment, we are still busy handling rescheduling of vacations and dealing with the “what ifs” of our current state. With media briefings overwhelming and interrupting our regular day to day activities and travel lives, our job is still to be your travel advisors.
- To be as objective as possible when directing you to fact filled sites.
- To keep you updated on vendor policies so that you can choose whether to reschedule or cancel your trips.
- To advocate for you in minimizing any financial losses incurred by this travel nightmare.
- To encourage dreaming while sheltering in place of the next part of the world to visit.
- To be confident that this too shall pass.
- To remain hopeful that something good and positive will emerge from this devastating pandemic.
