8 Passport and Visa Tips for Summer Travel

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.