The excitement of planning your AESU 2026 adventure is in full swing, your travel wish list is growing, your group is forming, and you’re counting down the months until takeoff. Before you start daydreaming about getting gelato in Florence or sunset views in Santorini, there is one not-so-glamorous travel essential you have to check right now: your passport’s expiration date. If your passport expires soon, or right before your trip, do not panic. Here’s exactly what to do to get travel-ready and keep your AESU trip right on track!
Read more: Passport Panic? What to Do if Yours Expires Before Your AESU TripWhy You Should Check Your Passport Now
A lot of countries will require that your passport be valid for around six months beyond your travel dates. This means if your AESU trip starts in June 2026, your passport should be valid through December 2026 or later. Renewal processing times have been longer lately, especially during the fall and winter when a lot of travelers start planning for next year. Checking now will give you plenty of time to renew without any stress and ensure that you will be prepared when it’s time to book flights or submit your travel documents. Mark your calendar and set a reminder to check your passport’s expiration date each fall. It’s the perfect time to prepare for next summer’s travels.
Current Renewal Timelines
Passport renewal times could fluctuate depending on demand, but here is what to expect:
- Routine service: around 8-11 weeks from the day your application is received.
- Expedited service: around 5-7 weeks for an extra fee.
- In-Person Urgent Travel Appointments: for traveling within 14 days, available by appointment at select passport agencies.
If your AESU trip is in summer 2026, aim to renew no later than January or February to be safe, especially if you are renewing by mail.
How to Renew Quickly and Correctly
Here is what you need to renew your United States passport:
- Your most recent passport: issued when you were 16 or older or within the last 15 years.
- A recent passport photo that meets all the official requirements.
- Form DS-82 for mail renewals or Form DS-11 for new applicants.
- Payment for renewal fees and optional expedited service.
You can find fees, forms, and detailed instructions on the U.S. State Department’s passport website. When in doubt, opt for expedited processing. It’s worth the peace of mind, especially as travel season ramps up.
Explore the World with AESU!
Are you ready to plan the adventure of a lifetime? AESU offers unique, thrilling travel programs for college students and young professionals at affordable rates. Each trip is action-packed and informal, designed just for people your age. We can also create custom trips tailored just for your group.
Experience an exhilarating adventure! New 2026 departure dates are now available at www.aesu.com/trips. Check out our most popular trips: the Cosmopolitan and the Great Escape trips! If you have any questions or want help booking your next adventure, please contact AESU by calling 800-638-7640, or fill out the contact form found on our website. Follow AESU on Facebook, X (formerly known as Twitter), Instagram, LinkedIn, and Pinterest.