December 2025 Travel News | Trawick Travel News

Starting Feb. 1, 2026, the TSA will begin charging a non-refundable $45 fee for air travelers who arrive at airport checkpoints without a compliant form of ID such as a REAL ID-compliant license, passport, or other accepted identification. Transportation Security Administration+2PR Newswire+2

Under the new system — called TSA Confirm.ID — travelers lacking acceptable ID can still fly, but only after paying the fee and completing a modernized identity-verification process before entering security. The $45 fee covers a 10-day travel window, which could include a round trip or multiple flights within that time. Airlines For America+2PR Newswire+2

According to TSA, more than 94 % of passengers already present compliant identification at check-in — meaning the vast majority will not be affected. PR Newswire+1 But for those who don’t, the agency warns of longer wait times, and even the possibility of being denied access if identity cannot be verified. Transportation Security Administration+2Idaho Transportation Department+2

TSA strongly urges travelers to check their ID now — for most states, a REAL ID-compliant license is clearly marked (often with a star in the upper corner). PR Newswire+1 For travelers who don’t have REAL ID yet, taking care of the upgrade well before their travel dates is the safest bet to avoid added fees or last-minute hassles at the airport. Transportation Security Administration+1

For more details on acceptable forms of ID, or to learn how to pay for Confirm.ID online, travelers are encouraged to visit TSA.gov before heading to the airport.

The U.S. Department of Transportation has launched a new national etiquette campaign called “The Golden Age of Travel Starts With You,” announced on November 19, 2025. The initiative encourages Americans to dress well, act politely, and help restore courtesy to air travel—a response to a 400% spike in in-flight outbursts since 2019. The FAA says unruly passenger incidents doubled in 2024, with more than $2.1 million in fines already issued in 2025.

The FAA defines an “unruly passenger” as anyone whose behavior becomes disruptive enough to require crew or law-enforcement intervention, from alcohol-fueled disturbances to physical altercations. While most travelers understand the basics of polite behavior, the DOT hopes to elevate the everyday flying experience. This includes encouraging passengers to assist pregnant travelers or older adults, manage their children, dress respectfully, and express simple courtesies such as “please” and “thank you.”

Still, the campaign is drawing mixed reactions. Many travelers agree that etiquette matters—but some say expectations like dressing up or managing kids more effectively are harder to meet in today’s cramped cabins. Others question why the DOT is focusing on passenger behavior after it repealed the Fly Rights initiative, which would have addressed airline accountability for delays, cancellations, and compensation.

Ultimately, “The Golden Age of Travel” puts the spotlight on traveler conduct, but many passengers hope politeness is only part of the solution. For a true golden age, they say, improved airline reliability and consumer protections should share the stage.

The European Travel Commission (ETC) has officially endorsed the Reykjavík Declaration: “Tourism for Europe, Europe for Tourism,” marking a major step toward a more inclusive and sustainable tourism future. Signed during the ETC’s 110th General Meeting in Iceland, the declaration unites 35 national tourism organizations behind a shared mission: ensuring that the benefits of tourism truly support local communities, protect cultural heritage, and preserve Europe’s natural environments. This resident-first framework reflects a growing movement to rebalance tourism so it enriches—not strains—the destinations travelers love.

Central to the declaration are six guiding principles designed to shape tourism that is socially, economically, and environmentally responsible. They highlight tourism as a shared benefit, emphasize placing communities at the heart of decision-making, and encourage innovation to make the industry more resilient and accessible. The declaration also reinforces the importance of cultural preservation, environmental regeneration, and travel as a force for peace and mutual understanding. Recent research presented at the meeting underscores strong resident support for these values, with eight in ten locals expressing pride in welcoming visitors and sharing their regional identity.

At its core, the Reykjavík Declaration aims to address rising concerns about overtourism and ensure that development aligns with the aspirations of local residents. By encouraging collaboration between communities, governments, and tourism organizations, the ETC hopes to shape a future where travel strengthens livelihoods, protects ecosystems, and fosters greater cultural exchange. For travelers, this is an invitation to embrace more meaningful and responsible travel habits—from supporting local businesses and respecting cultural traditions to minimizing environmental footprints and engaging authentically with residents.

With this renewed commitment to sustainable tourism, Europe is charting a path toward a more balanced and inclusive model—one that benefits both visitors and the communities that host them. If you're planning a future trip and want to protect your investment while traveling responsibly, get a travel insurance quotewith Trawick International today.

Asia’s influence on global travel is set to surge in 2026, driven by shifting traveler behavior, rapid digital transformation, and expanding regional connectivity. According to the newly released Agoda 2026 Travel Outlook Report, nine key Asian markets reveal clear trends that are reshaping how—and why—people travel. The report shows a growing preference for short, frequent getaways paired with strong value-conscious decision-making. With travelers prioritizing affordability, digital convenience, domestic exploration, and culturally rich experiences, Asia is becoming a preview of what global travel habits may look like in the year ahead.

One of the most prominent trends is a move toward value-led travel, especially in markets like Malaysia, Vietnam, and Indonesia, where most travelers prefer accommodations under USD 100 per night. Instead of traveling less, budget-minded travelers are taking more trips throughout the year and dedicating a steady portion of their annual income to travel. This shift is also fueling the rise of domestic tourism, with more travelers choosing lesser-known secondary cities that offer cultural depth, natural beauty, and lower crowd levels. Improved air connectivity is accelerating this trend, helping destinations such as Takamatsu, Matsuyama, and Indonesia’s Riau province gain visibility.

The 2026 travel landscape will also be heavily shaped by experience-driven travel, from culinary exploration to major events and spiritual journeys. Search spikes tied to concerts, festivals, and religious celebrations—such as the Mahakumbh Mela and Holi—highlight the growing appetite for purpose-led trips. At the same time, relaxed visa policies, expanding flight networks, and seamless digital payment systems are making regional exploration easier than ever. The report emphasizes that travelers are rapidly adopting AI tools for real-time navigation, itinerary building, translation, and problem-solving—positioning Asia as a leader in tech-enabled travel.

As Asia continues to champion affordability, cultural immersion, convenience, and digital sophistication, these trends are expected to shape global travel behavior throughout 2026 and beyond. If you're planning international trips and want extra protection and flexibility along the way, explore our plans and get a quote with Trawick International!

Major international airlines have abruptly suspended flights to and from Venezuela following heightened security concerns in the country’s airspace. The move has stranded hundreds of travelers in airports and hotels, many of whom are unsure when they’ll be able to leave. Aviation authorities and global regulators reportedly flagged a rise in military activity in the region, creating an unpredictable environment that airlines say no longer meets commercial safety standards.

The sudden stoppage has escalated tensions between Venezuela’s aviation authority and international carriers. Local officials have urged airlines to resume service—and even warned that failing to do so may affect their operating permissions. Meanwhile, travelers caught in the middle are seeking clarity, safe exit routes, and reliable updates. For those abroad who were planning trips, the situation serves as a reminder to check government advisories before booking, as many countries continue to warn against non-essential travel to Venezuela due to crime, shortages, civil unrest, and limited consular support.

For travelers currently in Venezuela, mobility has become a major challenge. Embassies are encouraging visitors to register their presence so they can receive emergency updates, while airlines are issuing rapid—sometimes inconsistent—communication about scheduling changes. Travelers are also being urged to review their travel insurance coverage for disruptions related to civil unrest or airspace closures, remain vigilant when moving around the country, and avoid night travel, demonstrations, and unofficial taxi services.

Looking ahead, would-be visitors may want to wait for stability to improve. Venezuela’s natural attractions—from Angel Falls to Caribbean-blue coastlines—remain extraordinary, but the current operational environment demands a cautious, flexible approach to travel planning. Until flight operations normalize, travelers should prioritize safety, monitor official guidance, and consider postponing non-essential trips.