Traveling in 2026? Here are the changes you need to know about
From ID and entry and exit requirements to updated airline refund policies, these are the notable new rules affecting tourists.
Starting in 2026, travelers who fly will face a slew of updates from new security requirements at airports to new international routes, offering more options for booking once-in-a-lifetime vacations. Here’s everything to know about traveling by air this year.
REAL ID requirements for U.S. air travel
After multiple delays since its introduction in 2007, the federal law requiring flyers to carry a REAL ID went into effect on May 7, 2025. Most newly issued ID cards are REAL ID-compliant, but travelers with older documents should check with their issuing state agency.
If you’re not in compliance but still need to fly, you can pay a $45 “TSA ConfirmID” fee to use an alternative identity verification system at security checkpoints. That starts February 1 and a TSA ConfirmID is good for 10 days of travel.
More information about REAL ID in each state is available on the Department of Homeland Security website. The paperwork required to apply varies by state but will likely include proof of identity, status as a U.S. resident or citizen, a Social Security number, and proof of a current address. Valid passports, of course, remain a legal form of identification for domestic and international travel.
Traveling to the UK with ETA
Beginning February 25, visitors from 85 countries, including the U.S., who don’t require a visa will need to register through the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) program.
Modeled after the U.S.’s Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) system, the ETA allows UK authorities to screen visitors before arrival to reduce security risks and streamline border entry. The ETA is not a visa and doesn’t replace existing visa requirements.
U.S. citizens planning to travel to the UK can apply for an ETA online or the ETA app. A United Kingdom ETA costs £16, or approximately $21. Once approved, the ETA is valid for six months.
Navigating Europe’s new entry and exit requirements
Although no exact date has yet been announced, 30 European countries will start to enforce the European Union’s European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) in late 2026.
This new authorization process will require people from over 60 visa-exempt countries, including U.S. citizens, to have travel authorization when entering 30 European countries. Similar to the UK’s ETA program, the ETIAS does not replace existing visa requirements but aims to improve security in Europe’s Schengen Area.
(This is what you need to know about ETIAS)
Travelers who are granted ETIAS travel authorization can enjoy multiple entries to the participating countries for short-term stays, typically up to 90 days across a 180-day period. The ETIAS is valid for up to three years, and a new ETIAS travel authorization is required if a passport expires.
This will work in tandem with the new Entry/Exit System (EES), which will register biometric data at passport control for both visa-free and visa-required travelers entering Europe for short stays. The EES does not require any action from travelers.
(Here’s everything to know about EES)
Changes to consumer protections for U.S. air travel
The last elements of the “final rule” from the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) are being implemented. Announced in April 2024, the rule no longer allows U.S. airline operators to decide when refunds might be appropriate after significant changes.
That term is defined as and includes: departure or arrival times that are changed by more than three hours (domestic) and six hours (international); changes in airport or the number of connections; cabin downgrades; or problems with accessibility for travelers with disabilities. There are also new compensation rules for significantly delayed baggage or extra services, like Wi-Fi that were paid for but not delivered.
Consumer protections are subject to lobbying from the airline industry and ongoing debate, with the DOT pausing enforcement on some refund specifics (new flight numbers/delays) until mid-2026. Check the full list of the rules for refunds before traveling.
New airline routes and cabin changes
American Airlines has announced it will add 15 routes in 2026 and new services from hubs such as Chicago and Phoenix. The airline unveiled its Flagship Suites business class seats in 2025 and expects to add 45 percent more premium seating in its long-haul fleet in 2026.
Southwest Airlines is ending its complimentary extra seat and guaranteed refund policy for plus-size passengers. Effective January 27, travelers who don’t fit within a seat’s armrests must purchase an extra seat in advance. Refunds are only possible if the flight isn’t full, requiring a post-travel request, says the airline.
The new year also brings new international routes for many airlines. American announced new service to Budapest, Hungary; Athens, Greece; and Bimini, in the Bahamas. United Airlines says it will travel to Split, Croatia; Seoul, South Korea; and Santiago de Compostela, Spain.
Delta says it will now fly to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; Valletta, Malta; and Sardinia, Italy. JetBlue intends to offer several new flights, including to Cali, Colombia; and Liberia, Costa Rica. Alaska Airlines says it will service Reykjavik, Iceland; and Rome, Italy.
