Don’t Forget This One Thing Before You Fly to Your U.S. Tour This Summer

This summer, many of our travellers will be exploring the incredible sights, stories, and experiences found right here in the United States — from city walks in New York to food tours in New Orleans and guided hikes in national parks.

Whether you're journeying across the country or heading out for a long weekend closer to home, there's one important thing to check before you fly: your ID.

Starting May 7, 2025, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will require a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card to board domestic flights — unless you’re traveling with a valid passport or another TSA-approved form of ID.

If your current license doesn’t have a star in the corner, it might not meet the requirements. Not sure? A quick visit to your local DMV or licensing office can help you confirm whether you're ready for takeoff.

It’s a small detail, but one that can make a big difference — and we’d hate for a traveller to miss their tour because of a last-minute surprise at the airport.

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Exploring Your Own Backyard, Differently

Even if you're travelling within your own country, hiring a local guide can transform your trip from memorable to truly meaningful. The U.S. is vast and incredibly diverse — not just in landscapes, but in the stories, flavours, and perspectives that shape each place.

A local guide offers:

• Deeper context on the history and culture of cities, and the ecology and geology of landscapes
• Behind-the-scenes access and hidden gems you might never find on your own
• Expertise in specific interests, from architecture to wildlife to photography or food
• Personal stories that bring places to life in a way no guidebook can match

Plus, you'll find that the guides on ToursByLocals are passionate about their communities. Booking a tour supports small businesses and local economies, while giving you a chance to experience a place through the eyes of someone who calls it home.

So whether you're strolling through a historic east coast neighbourhood, discovering the vineyards of Sonoma, or standing at the edge of a canyon, let a local expert help you see it more clearly, understand it more deeply, and remember it more vividly.

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Before you hit the skies, make sure your ID is up to date — and when your feet hit the ground, consider adding a local guide to your itinerary. Your future self will thank you.

Want to learn more about REAL ID?

Visit the TSA’s official site: tsa.gov/real-id