Traveling in 2023? Here’s What You Need To Know!

Are you traveling in 2023? New changes are coming for many aspects of domestic and international travel. Check out this useful information to make the most of your trip.

Airport Laws

New regulations are coming in 2023 that will improve your experience at the airport and make your trip more enjoyable. The Enhancing Transparency law will require airlines to disclose extra costs, like baggage, flight cancellations, and fees for young children up front.

The Airport Improvement Program, a division of the Federal Aviation Administration, gives out funds to upgrade airports. Recently, the federal government added an extra $400 million to the program’s budget. 

The FAA announced the awards in September 2021, and they will distribute the funds through the end of 2023. Expect to see airports looking new and improved from the extra funds!

TSA Restrictions

Although COVID-19 regulations have decreased worldwide, the TSA still has some restrictions and suggestions that will continue into 2023. TSA personnel will continue to wear sanitary gloves, and you can request they change gloves before contact with you.

The TSA’s ‘Stay Healthy, Stay Secure’ campaign will continue to affect travel in 2023. This program emphasizes safe practices by TSA members, including disinfecting surfaces, plastic shielding at desks and counters, and face masks. Keep in mind that this policy allows you to bring a 12-ounce container of hand sanitizer on the plane, much larger than the standard liquid bottle sizes.

Visa Process

An important update is coming to the Visa process in 2023. To travel to many European countries, you will need an electronic travel authorization which you can obtain by submitting an online application.

If you’re traveling to the United States, expect delays on your Visa. The travel industry has been slow to recover from COVID-19, and the Visa process may take longer than typical. We suggest planning for plenty of time to receive your Visa.

Passport Renewals

The passport renewal process is getting an exciting new update in 2023. Starting in the early months of 2023, you can renew your passport online. This process will make travel so much easier and more accessible. 

This new online renewal process will also shorten the time it takes to get a new passport. Instead of waiting months for a new one, it will only take a few weeks. This new policy will make it easy to travel outside of the United States.

If you are a United States Citizen, you can take advantage of this update in the spring or summer of 2023. We suggest using this option if you live in a rural area or don’t have a passport office in your area.

A pilot process has recently begun to test the online passport renewal system. While it may have some problems, this beta version of the online renewal program can be an advantage for people who can’t get to the passport office. You can visit the pilot program website to see if you qualify for an advanced passport.

Real IDs

The Real ID is one of the most significant changes coming to travel in 2023. A Real ID is a state-issued identification card or driver’s license that is also a federal form of identification. It helps add an extra layer of security to your travel experience.

Real IDs help verify the identity of travelers. They ensure the safety of all airline passengers efficiently. Ensuring you have a Real ID isn’t a tricky process, although obtaining one may take an extra step.

If you have a star at the top of your state-issued driver’s license, you have an enhanced driver’s license or Real ID. The same rule applies to state-issued identification cards. You can show your license or card at the airport to get on the plane, and you’ll be good to go.

If you do not have an enhanced card that equates to a Real ID, you might have to apply for a new identification card or update your driver’s license. Head to your local government website, such as the DMV, to apply for a new card. 

To get a Real ID, you’ll typically need identification like a passport, proof of employment, or birth certificate. You can find specific instructions for getting a Real ID in your state or territory on the Homeland Security website.

We suggest getting your Real ID as soon as possible to guarantee a stress-free trip. All travelers flying within or out of the United States will need a Real ID by May 3rd, 2023.

Wrap Up

Dealing with new rules and regulations can add stress to your trip, but it doesn’t have to be so complicated. Make your 2023 travels a breeze with these easy suggestions, from considering TSA regulations that make your trip safer to using easy online passport renewals.

Whether you’re traveling for work, family, or pleasure, ensure your trip’s success by staying notified of the latest updates.