With 59 percent of global travelers planning to take between one and three international trips in 2025 alone, avoiding any travel disruptions and frustrations can sometimes make or break a vacation. While planning your first (or next) 2025 international trip, keep these 10 tips for passports and visas in mind:
1.Check Your Passport Expiration Date … Now!
Many countries require passports to be valid three–six months beyond the trip’s return date. Research passport validity requirements of the country you’re visiting. Be sure to also have a valid passport beyond the duration of your stay in case of unexpected extensions, emergencies or delays. If you don’t have six months of validity starting from the date you return from your trip, the airline taking you to your destination can turn you away, whether they are right or wrong.
2. Double Check Visa Requirements by Destination
Visas may take days or weeks to obtain, depending on the destination. Even eVisas still require advance planning. Verify the latest visa requirements for your destination. ItsEasy.com provides a database of visa requirements by country.
3. Keep Digital and Physical Copies of Your Documents
Scan and email yourself a copy of your passport, visa and travel itinerary in case of theft or loss. It’s even better to also keep a printed copy (or two) in your luggage.
4. Get a Passport Card as Alternative to REAL ID Driver’s License or ID
A U.S. passport card is a REAL ID-compliant alternative to a REAL ID driver’s license or state ID, allowing U.S. citizens to re-enter the country by land or sea from Canada, Mexico, Bermuda and other Caribbean countries. And you don’t even need to go to the DMV: If you already have a passport book, apply for a passport card from home here.
5. Don’t Trust Ads from Fake Passport Renewal Sites
There are many misleading search ads posing as official passport renewal services and they overcharge, offer poor customer service or simply scam you outright. Stick with trusted names and official government websites (which end in .gov) for all passport-related needs. Note: Some deceptive sites include “gov” in the name to appear legitimate, but they’re not affiliated with the government.
6. Make Sure You Have Enough Blank Pages
Many countries require at least two–four blank visa pages in your passport for entry and exit stamps and visas occupying the whole page. If you travel often, renew early to avoid running out of space. Some airlines won’t allow you to board if this requirement is not met. Check your destination’s rules beforehand.
7. Check for Passport Damage
Your passport may be considered invalid if it has water damage, torn-up pages, dog bites or even a missing cover. Not sure if it’s damaged fully? Contact ItsEasy.com and their experts can look at a photo of it to determine how the DoS will evaluate it.
8. If You’re on a Last-Minute Trip, Use an Expediter
Need a passport in less than 10–14 days? Use an expediting service, which specializes in helping travelers secure emergency travel documents quickly, accurately and without added stress.
These tips are provided by David Alwadish, founder and CEO, ItsEasy.com. Find additional tips for specific situations (like traveling with kids) here.
Read This Next
#TrazeeTravel
Insta FeedDining/Entertainment
May 29, 2025Highest Rooftop Bar in Indianapolis Opens
This summer, the highest full-service rooftop bar in Indianapolis opens atop InterContinental Indianapolis. Perfect for both a sunset social hour or swanky night out, Astrea not only promises tasty seasonal dishes and creative cocktails, but also spoils with unobstructed views of Monument Circle and downtown Indianapolis with indoor and outdoor seating.
Sponsored Content
AmaWaterways’ Specialty River Cruises
When you embark on a river cruise with award-winning AmaWaterways, unpack once and step aboard a world of unparalleled experiences. With enriching excursions, exquisite locally sourced food and wine, nightly entertainment and more included in the fare, you will learn why AmaWaterways has the most returning guests out of any river cruise line.
Cruises
May 28, 2025Carnival Plans Big Expansions for Years Ahead
Carnival Cruise Line expects big enhancements over the next five years through a new initiative dubbed the “Innovation Itinerary” that will focus on new ships, experiences and destinations, as well as cruise line loyalty. Highlights will include opening Celebration Key in July, and taking delivery of new ships in 2027, 2028 and 2029.
Hotel
May 28, 2025Reservations Now Open for Secrets Playa Esmeralda, Dreams Playa Esmeralda
Two brand-new resorts are set to redefine the all-inclusive experience when they open. Reservations are now available for Secrets Playa Esmeralda (opens Aug. 1) and Dreams Playa Esmeralda (opens Sept. 1), along the untouched shores of Playa Esmeralda in the Dominican Republic.
Hotel
May 28, 2025Have a Romantic Summer Escape at This Yountville, California, Retreat
North Block Hotel, a boutique Yountville retreat in California, offers the perfect escape for couples looking for quiet luxury and a chance to reconnect. The hotel features just 20 rooms, as well as a vine-draped courtyard resembling a European village. Couples can expect every detail of the romantic weekend to be thoughtfully curated to help them unwind, reconnect and indulge. A weekend at North Block Hotel this summer includes:
Airlines
May 27, 2025Best Airlines, Routes for Last-Minute Flight Bookings
It’s widely accepted that getting the best prices on airfare often requires booking far in advance of your travel dates. However, if you’re more likely to book your next trip last minute, you don’t have to accept over-the-top airfare. You can save a little cash by choosing one of the best airlines or routes for last-minute flight bookings, as determined by a recent study from Upgraded Points.
ShareThis