The travel world has had many ups and downs since 2026 began.
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From military operations suspending airspace to the roll-out of mandatory travel authorizations in places like the UK, there’s a lot of information for Americans to keep in mind. Toss in added concerns like security delays at the airport and skyrocketing fares, and it’s not hard to see how travel has become a finicky beast.
I’ve taken a close look at this year’s most important updates to put together a travel reminder checklist for 2026. Read it through as you start planning and booking your next trip. It’ll help you manage those little details that slip through the cracks.
Here’s your travel reminder checklist for the year—as of April 2026
#1: Check if you need authorization to visit
In February, the UK fully implemented its ETA requirement for Americans. Countries like Brazil and Australia also require Americans to apply for authorizations before arrival, while the EU is set to launch its ETIAS requirements later this year. These new authorizations are designed to make it easier for customs authorities to monitor visitors. You can easily apply for them online for a small fee.
Join STEP and consider travel insurance
Recently, the DOS announced a worldwide security alert. Due to ongoing political conflicts, the DOS recommends Americans also sign up with STEP, which alerts the embassy/consulate closest to your destination about your upcoming trip in case of emergency. I also recommend looking into travel insurance in case any other global conflicts create circumstances that compromise your trip.
Book direct
Due to the uncertainty surrounding travel and the possibility that your trip could be delayed or canceled, I recommend booking flights, hotels, and rentals directly with the company. It’s easier to manage refunds and rebooking when there isn’t a third-party booking site involved. If that’s not possible, follow this guide.
Learn how to bid on business class
You can nab a business class seat by joining bids at participating airlines. I’ve seen some travel creators book seats for as little as $400 for transatlantic flights. (That’s in addition to the economy seat they already booked.)
Double-check that Airbnbs are legal before you book one
Many countries, cities, and municipalities around the world are grappling with illegal, unlicensed Airbnbs that eat up local housing. Before you book an Airbnb, double-check that private short-term rentals are legal at your destination. You can do that with a quick Google search.
You don’t need a passport to visit the tropics
Here’s my perennial reminder to Americans, especially those who are nervous about traveling abroad and/or those who want to save on their travel budget. You can go to the US Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico without busting out your passport. If you do have a bigger budget, you can also head as far as American Samoa or Guam.
Watch your lithium-ion batteries
Lithium-ion batteries are rechargeable batteries found in dozens of popular tech devices, from laptops and smartphones to vapes and battery packs. Unfortunately, damaged batteries are prone to overheating, which could even cause a fire. These should never be checked in with your luggage. They should stay with you in the cabin.
Know what your smartphone can do: translate, currency exchange, etc.
Your smartphone has more travel-ready capabilities than ever before. Two of the most relevant are translator apps, including the new live translation features from Apple AirPods. I also know that Apple calculators have currency converters that work even when you don’t have Wi-Fi or service.
Beware the World Cup hustle—and the 4th of July
In June and July, close to a dozen locations across the United States are going to be packed with soccer fans. These include Atlanta, Boston, Dallas, Houston, Kansas City, Los Angeles, Miami, New York-New Jersey, Philadelphia, San Francisco, and Seattle. The tournament also coincides with the US’s 250th Fourth of July celebrations. If you’re going to travel to a Wolrd Cup location during the holiday, be prepared for crowds. Massive crowds.
Know the pros and cons of using AI to plan trips
AI travel-planning tools and assistants are being rolled out across a range of popular platforms, from Priceline to Lonely Planet. I recommend using them to handle the technical aspects of travel, like transportation and price comparisons. I recommend using caution when using AI recommendations to plan your trip in terms of sights, tours, and experiences. You can use the picks, but double-check that they’re relevant and not just tourist traps.
Be mindful of overtourism
Overtourism has become a global topic, and it’s becoming an issue for more and more regions around the world. While (most) locals appreciate tourism and its positive economic impact, irresponsible tourism compromises the places we love traveling to the most. The good news: You can combat overtourism in simple ways, from booking tours and Airbnbs from locals to learning the local etiquette. Humility also goes a long way.
