Let’s be honest — there’s nothing worse than arriving at the airport, bags packed and vacation dreams in full swing, only to be told you can’t board because of an ID issue.

Whether you’re flying internationally or hopping across states, your travel identification needs to be in order well before your departure date.

Here’s what you need to know (and double-check) before your next trip.

Passport Essentials

If you’re traveling internationally, your passport is your most important document. Before every trip, I do a quick review — and I recommend you do the same for everyone in your household.

Here’s what to check:

• Condition: Water damage, tears, missing pages, or major wear can make a passport invalid — even if it’s not expired.
• Expiration Date: Many destinations require 3 to 6 months of validity beyond your arrival date. For kids (whose passports last only five years), this can sneak up fast. Start renewing around the 9-month mark before expiration.
• Correct Info: Your name on airline reservations must match your passport exactly. If you’ve had a name change or spot an error, follow the U.S. State Department’s process to correct it.
• Blank Pages: Some countries require at least two to four blank visa pages for stamps or entry visas. If you’re running low, it’s time to renew. Frequent flyers can request a 52-page passport booklet for extra space.
  

REAL ID for Domestic Travel

Starting May 2025, all U.S. air travelers aged 18 and older will need a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or state-issued ID for domestic flights.

What to know:

• Check your current ID: Pull it out and verify the expiration date and look for the star symbol in the top corner — that’s your REAL ID marker.
• Need to upgrade? Visit your state’s driver’s license office or website to learn the process. It can take a few weeks, so don’t wait until the last minute.
• No REAL ID yet? You can use an alternate ID, like a valid U.S. passport or passport card, but your airline ticket must match the name on whatever document you present at TSA.
  

Quick Reminder: Standard Processing Times

As of this update:

• Routine passport processing takes 4–6 weeks
  
• Expedited service (for an extra fee of $60 or more) takes about 2–3 weeks
  

That means now is the time to get your documents in order — well ahead of spring break, summer travel, or holiday trips.

My Pro Tip

Before every client trip, I always ask:
“Have you checked your travel ID lately?”

It’s a simple question, but the peace of mind it brings is huge. A few minutes now can save hours of stress later.

If you’re planning travel in the next 12 months, don’t wait — check your passport, verify your REAL ID, and make sure everything is in perfect shape for takeoff.

Need help navigating the process? I’m always here to guide you through it.

Warmly,
Nichole
Founder, Designed Vacations