Passport Basics
What every traveler should know in 2025
The humble passport is your golden ticket to international adventure—but it’s also one of the most commonly overlooked details when it comes to travel planning. Every year, travelers miss out on trips or get turned away at the airport simply because they didn’t realize their passport was expired, or not valid for long enough to meet a country’s entry requirements.
In 2025, applying for or renewing a passport is easier than it used to be, but it still requires some forethought. First-time applicants must apply in person with documentation like a birth certificate and a photo ID, while many renewals can now be done online or through the mail. Processing times vary based on demand, but if you're traveling soon, expedited services are available—for a fee. The important thing is not to wait until the last minute. Many countries require that your passport be valid for at least six months beyond your return date, which is a common surprise for first-time international travelers.
Parents traveling with children should be aware of special rules for minors. Passports for kids under 16 are only valid for five years, and both parents usually need to be present for the application process. If only one parent is traveling internationally with a child, some countries require a notarized letter of consent from the other parent. It’s a safety precaution—but also a logistical one that’s easy to forget.
Once you have your passport, treat it like the valuable document it is. Scan a copy and keep it in your email or cloud storage. It’s also smart to keep a printed copy in a separate bag from the original, just in case it gets lost or stolen. If that happens while you’re abroad, you’ll need to visit a U.S. embassy or consulate to get a replacement—something that’s much easier when you have backup copies and identification on hand.
Having a passport opens the door to incredible experiences, and keeping it current ensures those doors stay open. With a little preparation, you can avoid last-minute stress and be ready to explore the world, one stamp at a time.
