There’s nothing like airport chaos or passport emergencies to ruin a vacation—which is why stress-free travel should top your list of New Year’s resolutions. While travel can be thrilling, restorative, and eye-opening, the process of getting to your destination can often feel overwhelming. From expensive airfares and crowded airports to ensuring your travel documents are in order, there’s plenty to manage before you even take off.
The good news? With a little preparation and the right resources, you can set yourself up for smooth sailing—or flying—in 2025. From staying ahead of passport renewals to maximizing your savings with platforms like Club 1 Hotels, these six tips will help you travel smarter, save more, and stress less.
1. Check Your Passport Expiration Date
Dreaming of an international getaway? Start by checking your passport’s expiration date. Many countries require it to be valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date, so renew well in advance if yours is close to expiring.
Passport renewal times have improved, with standard processing averaging four to six weeks. However, applying during the State Department’s “slow season” (October through December) can further expedite the process. If you’re in a time crunch, expedited processing for an additional fee can reduce the turnaround time to two to three weeks.
Pro Tip: Renew online if eligible to skip the paperwork. And if you’re just starting the application process, plan ahead to avoid unnecessary delays.
2. Reassess Your Points and Miles Strategy
Start the year by evaluating your travel rewards strategy. Whether you’ve been loyal to a single airline or hotel brand or have relied on cashback credit cards, consider how your points and spending habits align with your travel goals.
Club 1 Hotels makes maximizing rewards easier. With every booking, you earn up to 10X ClubONE Points, which can be redeemed for future travel. Plus, Club 1 Hotels gives you the flexibility to book across thousands of hotel brands and car rental options, so you’re never tied to one provider.
Pro Tip: Consider using a card that earns transferable points for greater flexibility when booking flights and accommodations.
3. Apply for or Renew Global Entry
Long airport lines are a major stressor, but Global Entry can save you time and energy. Membership includes TSA PreCheck, which speeds up security checks, and access to expedited customs lanes when returning from abroad. For $100, you’ll get a five-year membership—and many premium travel credit cards cover the cost.
Already a member? Check your expiration date and renew up to a year in advance. Renewing before expiration ensures continued access to these benefits while avoiding a gap in service.
4. Start a Dedicated Travel Savings Plan
A well-funded travel budget can alleviate a lot of stress. Instead of scrambling to pay for flights and hotels, create a dedicated savings account for your trips. By setting aside even $40 a week, you can build up enough to fund a memorable vacation by year’s end.
Pair your savings routine with Club 1 Hotels, where you can save up to 60% on hotels and car rentals. These discounts mean your travel fund stretches further, giving you more opportunities to explore without overspending.
Pro Tip: Automate weekly transfers to your travel fund to stay consistent and reach your goals effortlessly.
5. Make Sure You Have a Real ID
Starting May 7, 2025, U.S. travelers aged 18 and older will need a Real ID-compliant form of identification to board domestic flights. If your current driver’s license isn’t Real ID-compliant, now is the time to apply for an upgrade.
You’ll recognize a Real ID by a gold or black star, or a white star with a circle, on the top corner of the license. Not sure if you need one? A valid passport or Global Entry card will also work as identification for air travel.
Pro Tip: Avoid last-minute stress by checking your ID now and completing the Real ID process before the May deadline.
6. Book Smart to Maximize Savings
There’s no reason to overspend on accommodations when platforms like Club 1 Hotels make it easy to find incredible deals. With discounts of up to 60% on hotels and car rentals, you can travel comfortably without breaking the bank.
And the savings don’t stop there—every booking earns you up to 10X ClubONE Points, which can be used toward future trips. Whether you’re planning a luxury getaway or a budget-friendly escape, Club 1 Hotels ensures you get the best value every time.
Pro Tip: Book early to lock in the best rates, especially during peak travel times like summer vacations or holiday breaks.
Travel Smarter in 2025
A little preparation goes a long way in making your trips stress-free. By staying ahead of travel deadlines, reassessing your rewards strategy, and taking advantage of savings platforms like Club 1 Hotels, you can focus on enjoying your journey instead of worrying about the logistics.
Ready to Stress Less and Save More?
Start the year right with Club 1 Hotels. Create a free account today to save up to 60% on hotels and car rentals, and earn up to 10X ClubONE Points on every booking.
Start Planning. Start Saving. Start Traveling. Your next adventure awaits.
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