The Most Popular FAQs about Travel

What Do Travelers Want to Know in 2026?

The travel landscape has evolved immensely–and so have the priorities of today’s road trippers and jet-setters. Our world is more interconnected than ever before, thanks to our increasingly global economy and rapidly innovating transportation and communicational infrastructure (hello, TikTok).

What matters most to folks travelling throughout the U.S. today? What do they want to know? What planning resources are now available to them?

As we head into 2026, we’ve gathered today’s most frequently asked questions (FAQs) about travel. For readers planning their next trip, we encourage you to use this list as a resource as you consider the myriad of options. Wherever you’re going, and however you’re getting there, your next adventure awaits you!

Logistics

Do I need a REAL ID to fly?

Yes! As of May 7th, 2025, every traveler eighteen years of age and older must have a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or other acceptable form of ID to fly within the U.S. But if you’re in a pinch and still haven’t updated your ID, beginning February 1, 2026, TSA will offer the option to pay a fee of $45 in place of a REAL ID.

How far in advance should I book my trip?

For flyers, booking flights one to three months early is wise; for booking hotels, one to four months early is wise. Factors such as time of year and the possibility of price drops can further influence when to book (for instance, summer travel tends to cost more and book up faster, thus warranting earlier planning). Road trippers, meanwhile, have the advantage of spontaneity: so long as there’s gas in the car and your bags in the trunk, you can begin your journey whenever you’d like!

How can I avoid baggage fees?

The best methods to help avoid bag fees at the airport are packing light in your carry-on and wearing your bulkiest items onto the plane. You may also look into opening a credit card that offers airline credit for free checked bags. If bringing larger items is unavoidable, consider shipping them in advance if the costs are less than the bag fee.

Safety

Is it safe to travel to a certain destination right now?

The most highly ranked destinations for safety are typically selected by the following criteria: safety (low crime rates, high political stability, as shown in the Global Peace Index), English proficiency, and affordability. Many resources also consider specific safety considerations for female solo travellers.

What are some general safety tips I should know?

One of the most vital safety precautions for all travellers is to pay attention to your surroundings. Look up from your phone and notice who and what is around you. Avoid drawing unwanted attention to yourself or signaling vulnerability by flashing expensive items or appearing lost. Use only reputable transport, share your travel itinerary with trusted individuals, and learn local emergency contacts.

Is travel insurance worth it?

Frequent fliers should consider opening a credit card that offers special travel perks. For instance, certain credit card issuers actually offer travel insurance coverage for free to their cardholders, eliminating the need to purchase separate insurance elsewhere.

Budget

How can I find the best deals on flights?

Today, your best sources for flight deals are search engines (such as Google Flights and SkyScanner) and setting automated price alerts. Experts continue to advise fliers to remain flexible with dates, destinations, and airports, as prices tend to vary among these three factors.

Are all-inclusives worth it?

If a stress-free destination offering easy access to food, drinks, and activities sounds appealing to you, then yes, an all-inclusive resort is worth considering. For vacationers seeking an adults-only destination, there are all-inclusives that offer this rare type of environment. Spare yourself the time and stress spent planning your itinerary and let one of these unique resorts do it for you.

Packing

What should I pack for my trip?

Packing experts generally advise that less is more. Stick with the essentials: a form of ID, basic clothes, light layers, comfortable shoes, travel-sized toiletries, and your phone and a charger.

Remember that almost anything can be purchased upon arrival. Include any weather-specific items for your destination, such as gloves, a bathing suit, or water-resistant shoes.

What items do most people pack but actually do not need?

Think of impractical items that hog suitcase space and are ultimately not useful or essential to your visit. These tend to be full-sized toiletries, “just in case” outfits, and heavy books. Hair dryers are also a popular suitcase addition, but are typically provided at your accommodation of choice, and therefore better left at home. Keep it simple, and focus on these core tenets: essentials, comfort, and organization.

What are the most commonly forgotten packing items?

Most people forget to pack phone chargers, sensible clothes, comfortable walking shoes, and daily toiletries. In the flurry of filling a suitcase (especially if left at the last minute), it can be easy to grasp at the superfluous and neglect the things you actually do need.

Destination

What weather conditions should I be mindful of?

When packing for a specific trip, note the temperature, precipitation, and wind of your trip’s location. Each of these factors will impact what you’ll need to pack in order to dress comfortably.

What destinations are less touristy?

In the U.S., swapping larger cities for their smaller counterparts can spare visitors the headaches that come with tourist-riddled destinations (such as costliness, overcrowding, and noise). Consider the roads less travelled: research lesser-known state parks, for instance, to skip the crowds and enjoy the same illustrious views. Aim to book in off-season periods if possible. Smaller, underrated cities can offer the same charm sans the crowds.

How can I travel sustainably?

Options abound for those who’d like to shrink their carbon footprint. Skip the gas-guzzling methods of transportation (such as flying) and opt for more accessible public transit instead, like trains and buses. If you must fly, book direct flights to reduce emissions. For road trippers, rent a hybrid or electric vehicle.

Upon arriving, support the local economy: shop for authentic, locally crafted souvenirs; patronize small businesses, and dine at local restaurants. Respect indigenous wildlife; do not feed wild animals and avoid attractions that exploit animals. Finally, pack smart! Bring reusable items like water bottles, coffee cups, and utensils (this set makes a great gift).

Conclusion

Generally, the most often-asked travel questions pertain to logistics, safety, budget, packing, and destinations. This year, one of the most commonly asked questions pertains to REAL ID, given the new mandate that went into effect this spring. Whatever your destination, time of year, and budget, we hope this will be a helpful resource to reference as you plan your next trip.