By Debbie Gardner
dgardner@thereminder.com
By now you’ve probably heard about the extra document for landing in airports in England, and how those changes might be spreading. There’s also been scuttlebutt about a pop in the carry-on baggage bubble.
To get the lowdown, Prime reached out to our travel writer, Sandra Marsian, former marketing and membership director for AAA and Wendy Marley, AAA Northeast Travel Advisor.
Here’s what these two well-seasoned travel experts had to say:
Q: What are the new international travel requirements for US citizens (England, Spain, etc.) and how do they work?
From Sandra Marsian: “As of Jan. 8, travelers planning to visit the U.K. who do not need a visa must apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) beforehand. Travelers who have connecting flights in the U.K. and will remain in the airport’s transit area do not need an ETA, but obtaining one can provide peace of mind should they encounter delays or cancellations and need to leave the airport for any reason.
“Travelers can obtain their ETA through a fairly seamless process on the U.K. government app or website. Before completing the application, travelers should make sure they have their passport, a form of payment and a valid email address on hand. It costs £10 to apply, equivalent to about $13, depending on the current exchange rate. According to the U.K.’s official ETA website, applicants will usually get a decision within three business days but may get a quicker decision. Occasionally, a decision may take longer than three business days.
“ETAs allow visitors to stay in the U.K. for up to six months and remain valid for two years, as long as the traveler’s passport remains valid in that time period. Once a passport expires, travelers must obtain a new ETA, even if it is within two years of obtaining their ETA.
“Beginning later this year, travelers will also need approval from the European Travel Information and Authorization System to travel to 30 different European countries. That system is not yet processing applications as this requirement has not yet gone into effect.”
Q: There’s some buzz that there may be changes to carry-on baggage rules. Any insights on this?
From Wendy Marley: “There’s been some buzz around potential changes to carry-on baggage rules, and it looks like the rumors are true. Many airlines are increasing their baggage fees, with some raising prices by $5 to $15 more. Along with these higher costs, airlines are becoming more strict about carry-on rules, particularly for those flying on basic economy fares.
“With the new Department of Transportation regulations in effect, airlines are now required to be upfront about disclosing these fees, which helps travelers better plan and avoid surprises at the airport. However, there are still smart ways to save! If you know how many bags you’ll be bringing, it’s often cheaper to prepay for your baggage online, as airlines usually offer a discount compared to paying at the gate.
“Packing smart is also essential. Consider traveling light with a versatile carry-on that meets the airline’s size requirements — and remember to check your airline’s specific rules to avoid unexpected fees. Packing efficiently and strategically can make a big difference, especially if you’re trying to stick to a budget.”
Q: Has there been any shift in the most affordable types of travel for bargain hunters? (cruise vs. tour vs. independent?)
From Wendy Marley: “For travelers looking to stretch their budget without sacrificing experience, we’ve seen some notable shifts in where the best value can be found. Cruising remains one of the most affordable and convenient ways to travel, especially for those who live in the Northeast. We’re fortunate to be within driving distance of three major cruise ports, making what we like to call “homeport cruising” an incredible option. By driving to the ship instead of flying, travelers can save even more while still enjoying a world-class vacation.
“Beyond affordability, cruising has become one of the best ways for multiple generations to travel together. Today’s ships are bigger and better than ever, offering something for everyone—whether it’s kids’ clubs, thrilling entertainment, gourmet dining, or relaxing adults-only retreats. The best part? Everyone can enjoy their own adventures during the day and then come together at night for dinner, sharing their experiences before enjoying more of the ship’s entertainment, however they choose.
“At the same time, independent travel has become more budget-friendly for savvy travelers who take advantage of flexible booking options, off-peak travel dates, and bundled airfare and hotel packages. Destinations with favorable exchange rates — such as Portugal and certain parts of Spain —offer significant savings for travelers looking to explore Europe without breaking the bank.
“Guided tours remain a fantastic value for travelers who want an immersive experience without the stress of planning. Many tour operators now offer more budget-conscious options, including small-group and off-season departures, making it easier to see bucket-list destinationsat a lower cost.
“Ultimately, the best value depends on a traveler’s priorities —whether they prefer an all-in-one cruise, the structure of a guided tour, or the flexibility of independent travel. Bargain hunters who book early, travel in shoulder seasons, and take advantage of homeport cruising, loyalty programs, and special promotions will find plenty of ways to maximize their travel dollars in 2025.”