How New US Travel Policies And Record Resort Fees Are Changing The Game For 2025 Tourists, Making Entry Harder Than Ever Before

Published on December 13, 2025

As the US prepares for significant changes in 2026, travelers need to be aware of new ESTA rules, hidden surcharges, and crucial World Cup-related advice. These updates will affect both tourists and business travelers, shaping their experience from visa requirements to unexpected fees, and even influencing travel plans around one of the world’s most popular sporting events. Understanding these changes is essential to navigating the evolving landscape of US travel in 2026. Here’s everything you need to know to stay informed and avoid last-minute surprises.

Traveling to the United States in 2025 presents unique challenges and opportunities that potential visitors must consider before booking their trips. While there are signs of a downturn in tourism, there are still ways to explore America affordably and with fewer crowds. Here’s what travelers need to know before setting off to the US.

Tourism to the US has experienced a decline since the start of President Trump’s second term in January 2025. In August 2025, a key travel month, international arrivals fell by 8.3% compared to the previous year. This decrease equates to approximately 20,000 fewer visitors per day, avoiding America’s renowned cities, picturesque beaches, and stunning natural landscapes.

Despite the drop in international traffic, airlines are offering attractive deals to fill seats, especially in economy class. For instance, return flights from London Heathrow to Los Angeles can be found for under £500, while flights from Manchester to New York JFK are priced below £400. These lower fares present an excellent opportunity for travelers looking for budget-friendly flights to the US.

In regions where foreign tourists are scarce, particularly in the off-peak season, travelers can find package deals that offer excellent value. For example, a weeklong package for two at the Balmoral Resort in Orlando, including Virgin Atlantic flights from Heathrow, costs under £1,000 per person for travel in January.

While these affordable prices are enticing, the process of entering the United States has become more complex. U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) recently announced that travelers applying for ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) permits may soon be required to disclose their social media activity over the last five years. This measure, which aligns with a presidential executive order, is designed to enhance security and vet travelers to ensure they pose no risk to national safety.

CBP has clarified that this change is still in its early stages and is part of an ongoing review. While it is not yet a final rule, the proposal is part of a broader effort to improve the vetting process for visitors. Travelers concerned about this new scrutiny should be aware that their social media history may be examined by CBP officers upon arrival, potentially causing delays or denials of entry.

Despite these heightened security measures, getting an ESTA remains relatively straightforward for most travelers. These permits, which are required for travelers from Visa Waiver Program countries, allow stays of up to 90 days for tourism or business purposes. The process is typically quick, with approvals often granted within a few hours. The cost for an ESTA is $40 (£30), but travelers who are denied permission will not be informed of the reason due to privacy and security regulations.

For those who have visited countries like Cuba or Iran, restrictions may apply. If the visit occurred after certain dates, ESTA eligibility may be revoked, requiring a more extensive visa application process. Those who have visited other “no-go” countries, including North Korea, Libya, and Syria, may face similar issues.

One of the most significant changes in US entry requirements involves social media. CBP suggests that social media activity can help verify a traveler’s identity, occupation, and travel history. It also helps in detecting any potential fraudulent behavior. Social media platforms can also be used to assess political or ideological alignment, particularly for travelers with views that may not align with the current administration.

LGBT+ travelers, as well as those with strong political or activist stances, may find these developments especially concerning, as their social media presence may be scrutinized more closely. However, CBP maintains that personal beliefs about gender identity or sexuality should not render a traveler inadmissible, though documents may be required that correspond to the traveler’s gender assigned at birth.

The process of entering the US has also become more thorough and time-consuming. Many travelers report longer waits at immigration, with some spending up to 90 minutes or more at airports like New York JFK. CBP officers may ask to see return tickets or proof of sufficient funds for the duration of the trip, adding further complexity to the entry process.

In addition to traditional entry checks, CBP may examine travelers’ mobile phones, electronic devices, and social media accounts. Refusing to comply with these requests can lead to delays or even denial of entry. Although only a small fraction of travelers have had their social media activity examined—about one in every 10,000 travelers—this percentage is likely to increase.

There are two levels of device searches: a basic search, where officers review a device’s contents manually, and an advanced search, which involves connecting external equipment to analyze the device more thoroughly. CBP emphasizes that devices with passwords, encryption, or other security features may face delays or further scrutiny.

One way to avoid some of the hassles of entering the US is to travel via Ireland. At Dublin and Shannon airports, passengers heading to the US can undergo “pre-clearance” by CBP officials. This process allows for potential issues to be addressed while still on Irish soil, reducing the risk of being detained or rejected after a long flight. Once cleared, passengers can continue their journey to the US without the usual delays at immigration.

On the financial side, while flight prices to the US may be lower than in previous years, travelers should still expect some expenses. Accommodation in popular destinations can be pricey, with mid-range hotels like the Paris Las Vegas charging nearly £700 for a three-night stay, including a resort fee. These resort fees, which cover amenities like Wi-Fi and gym access, can add up quickly.

Furthermore, tipping remains a significant part of the US service culture, with 18% now considered the minimum, and 20% being more customary. This, combined with other additional costs like credit card surcharges, can significantly increase the total cost of a trip.

As the US prepares for the World Cup in 2026, travelers should expect higher prices, especially for flights and accommodation in host cities. The influx of international fans will drive up demand, making it more difficult to find affordable options during this period. For those not attending the tournament, it might be best to avoid traveling during the peak summer months when prices are at their highest.

In addition to the World Cup, another new cost for travelers to the US will be a $100 surcharge for foreign visitors to 11 popular national parks starting January 2026. This fee, which applies on top of regular admission costs, can be avoided by purchasing the annual America the Beautiful National Park pass before the end of 2025.

Despite these new challenges, the US remains a top destination for travelers. However, understanding the latest entry requirements, potential costs, and security measures is essential for anyone planning a trip in the near future.