How the Big Beautiful Bill Could Change Your Travel Plans

By Culture Travels Writers

The recently passed Big Beautiful Bill brings major updates for travelers and tourism—ranging from air travel improvements to new fees.

Air Travel:
A $2.5 billion investment will modernize air traffic control systems. While it won’t happen overnight, this funding aims to reduce delays and create smoother skies in the coming years. Another big win for transparency—airlines are now required to display seat selection and baggage fees upfront, even when booking through third-party sites.

International Travelers:
The cost of a U.S. tourist visa (B1/B2) has increased from $160 to $185. While this doesn’t impact U.S. citizens, other countries could respond by raising their own visa fees for incoming U.S. travelers. On the plus side, added funding is expected to speed up visa processing times.

National Parks:
Park entrance fees at major sites will rise by $5 to $15 per car. The push for digital passes is also growing, so plan to use your smartphone for park entry.

Roads and Rails:
Amtrak will receive new funding that could lead to expanded service and better infrastructure. However, states now have more freedom to introduce toll roads, which means road trip budgets may need adjusting.

What It Means for You:
This bill is a mixed bag—some updates will make traveling easier, while others add costs. The key takeaway is to plan ahead: look for updated fees, expect improvements in rail and air travel, and budget for the new realities of national parks.

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