As Americans gear up for the summer travel season, major updates are reshaping the U.S. travel experience. From long-anticipated ID requirements and airline policy shifts to new global flight routes and shifting traveler demographics, May 2025 is bringing big changes that every traveler should know about.
REAL ID Now Required for All Domestic Flights
After years of delays, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officially began enforcing the REAL ID requirement on May 7, 2025. All passengers aged 18 and above flying domestically must now present a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or a valid passport at TSA checkpoints.
This new mandate has already caused some airport confusion, especially for travelers unaware of the change or still waiting for their updated IDs. Fortunately, digital identity verification options like CLEAR are helping travelers sidestep long lines by allowing them to use their passports through mobile apps.
According to the Department of Homeland Security, roughly 81% of Americans now have a REAL ID, but that leaves millions potentially facing extra scrutiny at airport checkpoints.
Southwest Airlines Ends Free Checked Bags
In a major policy reversal, Southwest Airlines is officially ending its signature “Bags Fly Free” policy starting May 28, 2025. The airline has long stood out in the industry for allowing two free checked bags per passenger, but mounting financial pressures and investor demands have prompted a shift.
Going forward, most travelers will have to pay for checked luggage, though business fare customers and select loyalty members may still enjoy some perks. This aligns Southwest more closely with competitors like Delta, American, and United—making compact travel even more critical.
Retailers are responding to this shift, with high-demand products like the Glamlily Travel Hanging Toiletry Bag offering practical solutions for travelers aiming to fit everything into a carry-on.
U.S. Airlines Expand Global Routes
On a brighter note, international travel from the United States is getting a big boost this summer. Several major airlines have launched or resumed international routes in response to rising demand and eased restrictions abroad.
New and notable routes include:
- United Airlines: Nonstop flights from Washington Dulles to Venice.
- Delta Air Lines: Resumed flights from Los Angeles to Shanghai and new routes from Detroit to Dublin.
- American Airlines: First-ever service from Chicago to Madrid.
- JetBlue: Seasonal service from Boston to Madrid and Edinburgh.
- TAP Air Portugal: New Lisbon to Los Angeles route.
- Icelandair: Launching a Nashville–Reykjavik route.
These routes aim to provide travelers with more nonstop options across Europe and Asia—saving time and expanding destination choices for international vacations.
Economic Pressure Slows Travel Demand
Despite these expanded offerings, some signs point to a cooling in overall travel demand. Marriott International recently cut its revenue forecast for 2025, citing weaker consumer spending and travel hesitancy.
The hospitality giant now expects revenue per available room (RevPAR) to grow just 1.5% to 3.5%, down from initial projections. Similar reports from Hilton and Airbnb suggest that Americans are becoming more cautious about big travel spending amid economic uncertainty.
This could lead to more competitive pricing, flash deals, and travel perks as companies vie for consumer attention.
LGBTQ+ Travelers Rethink U.S. Trips
Not all challenges are economic. Social and political developments in the U.S. are now influencing how international travelers perceive safety and inclusivity—especially among LGBTQ+ communities.
Reports from Australia show a notable wave of cancellations among LGBTQ+ travelers who had planned to attend the World Pride 2025 festival in Washington, D.C. The reason? Growing concerns over anti-LGBTQ+ legislation and safety in parts of the U.S.
For a country known for its diversity and celebration of rights, this shift is a warning sign of how domestic policies can affect inbound tourism.
Canadian Travel to the U.S. Declines
Travel from Canada to the United States is also shrinking. According to recent data, more Canadians are postponing or canceling U.S. travel plans in 2025. A combination of economic hardship, a weak Canadian dollar, and political tension with the U.S. has fueled what some are calling a quiet boycott.
This trend is beginning to impact tourism-dependent regions like Florida, New York, and the Pacific Northwest—where Canadian travelers have historically played a key role in boosting seasonal economies.
Smart Packing Is Now a Necessity
With airline baggage fees rising and ID requirements tightening, more travelers are packing smarter. Products like compact toiletry organizers and multi-use travel accessories are in high demand.
One standout is the Glamlily Hanging Toiletry Bag, which fits comfortably in most carry-on luggage and allows easy access to TSA-approved liquids and grooming items. With bag fees on the rise, innovations like this are no longer optional—they’re essential.
May 2025 is shaping up to be a defining moment for travel in the United States. Whether you’re planning a cross-country flight, an overseas vacation, or just trying to keep your airport experience smooth, staying informed is key.
From REAL ID changes to evolving airline policies and shifting traveler sentiments, being prepared will help you navigate the skies with less stress—and maybe even more savings.
