February 2026 Travel News Highlights

Punxsutawney Phil has spoken once again, predicting six more weeks of winter after spotting his shadow during the annual Groundhog Day celebration in western Pennsylvania. Despite freezing temperatures and biting winds, thousands gathered to witness the tradition, reinforcing just how deeply winter weather—and reactions to it—are woven into travel habits across the U.S. Similar forecasts echoed nationwide, signaling that cold conditions may linger longer than many travelers hoped.

Extended winter weather often influences how—and where—people choose to travel. Some embrace snowy destinations and seasonal experiences, while others immediately start planning escapes to warmer climates. This divide in travel behavior is exactly what makes winter such a dynamic season for travel planning, with everything from ski trips and cozy city getaways to beach vacations and international escapes gaining traction.

At Trawick International, we explored these travel mindsets in our blog, “What Kind of Winter Traveler Are You?”, highlighting the different ways people respond to prolonged cold—from winter avoiders chasing sunshine to cold-weather enthusiasts leaning into the season. With unpredictable forecasts and shifting conditions, understanding your travel style can help you plan smarter and travel more confidently.

Whether you’re bracing for more snow or booking your next warm-weather escape, winter travel often comes with added uncertainties, from weather delays to last-minute itinerary changes. No matter your winter travel type, protecting your plans with reliable travel insurance from Trawick International helps ensure peace of mind—so you can focus on enjoying the journey, wherever the season takes you.

The European Union has confirmed a delay in the full implementation of its Entry-Exit System (EES), shifting the timeline from April to September 2026. While the biometric border system began a phased rollout in October 2025, EU authorities are allowing additional flexibility to help Schengen Area countries manage high travel volumes during the busy summer season.

The European Commission clarified that the progressive deployment of EES will officially conclude on April 9, 2026. However, under existing regulations, member states may partially suspend EES operations for up to 90 days afterward, with a possible 60-day extension to ease congestion at border crossings. Officials stressed that this flexibility was already foreseen in the legislation and does not constitute a new delay.

EES will replace passport stamping for travelers from non-EU “third countries,” including visitors from the UK and the United States, by collecting biometric data such as facial images and fingerprints at EU borders. Despite EU efforts to minimize concerns, airports have flagged operational challenges, including long queues and temporary pauses in testing, as seen at Lisbon Airport late last year.

EES also paves the way for the EU’s upcoming European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), expected to launch in the final quarter of 2026, requiring visa-exempt travelers to obtain online authorization before entering the bloc.

U.S. air travelers without a REAL ID, or another TSA-approved form of identification such as a passport, may soon face an unexpected $45 charge at airport security. Beginning this Sunday, non-compliant passengers flying domestically will be required to pay for TSA’s new alternate identity verification process, known as ConfirmID, a measure designed to encourage compliance with federal identification requirements.

The REAL ID is a federally compliant driver’s license or identification card, identifiable by a star in the upper corner, that meets enhanced security standards introduced after the September 11 attacks. While REAL ID enforcement officially began earlier this year, travelers without one were previously allowed to pass through TSA checkpoints with additional screening and a warning. That grace period is ending, and travelers aged 18 and over without acceptable ID will now need to use ConfirmID or risk being denied access to the security checkpoint.

ConfirmID allows travelers to verify their identity online before arriving at the airport by paying the $45 fee through TSA’s official portal. The verification, once approved, is valid for a 10-day travel window, though TSA stresses that payment does not guarantee clearance. The process can take up to 30 minutes at the airport, making advance payment strongly recommended. Travelers can find full REAL ID details and compliance guidance at the TSA website.

For those who prefer alternatives, TSA continues to accept other valid forms of identification, including passports, Global Entry or NEXUS cards, military IDs, permanent resident cards, and certain digital IDs via Apple Wallet and Google Wallet at participating airports.

Brazil is set to introduce a new e-Visa requirement beginning January 2026, affecting travelers from major countries including the United States, Canada, Mexico, and France. The policy marks a shift away from the visa-free access many visitors previously enjoyed and reflects Brazil’s broader efforts to modernize its entry procedures, strengthen border security, and align with global digital visa standards.

Under the new system, eligible travelers will be required to apply for an electronic visa online prior to arrival for tourism or business purposes. The application process will be fully digital, eliminating the need for consulate visits and allowing travelers to submit documents, pay fees, and receive approval electronically, typically within a few days. Official updates and application details will be available through Brazil’s government channels, including the Brazilian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the official Brazil e-Visa portal

The e-Visa rollout will initially apply to countries with reciprocal visa requirements, including the U.S., Canada, Mexico, and France. Travelers are encouraged to also consult their local Brazilian consulates or embassies for country-specific guidance.

As global entry rules continue to evolve, planning ahead is essential for international travelers heading to Brazil in 2026. Staying informed, securing the required e-Visa early, and preparing for potential travel disruptions can help ensure a smooth journey, and protecting your trip with comprehensive travel insurance from Trawick International gives you added peace of mind every step of the way.

For travelers who take multiple trips a year, annual travel insurance offers a smarter and more efficient way to stay protected. Instead of purchasing a new policy for every journey, an annual travel insurance plan provides continuous coverage for an entire year, allowing travelers to focus on planning their next destination rather than managing repeat paperwork and policies.

Trawick International’s annual travel insurance is designed specifically for frequent travelers and centers on comprehensive trip cancellation protection. Coverage typically includes reimbursement for trip cancellations, interruptions, lost or delayed baggage, and other unexpected travel disruptions that can occur throughout the year. Once purchased, the plan begins the following day and remains active for 364 additional days, covering multiple trips during that period.

The convenience of an annual plan is one of its biggest advantages. Travelers benefit from consistent protection across all their trips, whether for leisure, business, or last-minute getaways, without needing to reapply or reassess coverage each time. This approach not only saves time but can also be more cost-effective for those who travel several times a year.

For anyone who values flexibility, simplicity, and year-round peace of mind, an annual travel insurance plan is a practical solution. Learn more about Trawick International’s Annual Trip Cancellation Plans and make sure every trip this year is protected—no matter where or how often you travel.