As families across the globe plan their August 2025 getaways, a mix of travel rule changes, regional challenges, and exciting cultural events await. Here’s what you need to know to enjoy a stress-free and memorable trip.

1. New EU Travel Rules: What Families Must Prepare For

Schengen Zone Passport Requirements

To enter countries like Spain, France, Greece, and Italy, passports must be valid for at least three months after your departure from the EU and issued within the last 10 years. Children must travel with individual passports and some border officers may ask for extra documents like hotel confirmations or return tickets. Ireland and Cyprus have separate visa policies.

Consent Letters for Child Travel

Families are also strongly advised to carry a notarized consent letter from the non-traveling parent if a child is traveling with only one parent, a relative, or a family friend. This is especially important for divorced or separated parents. Border officials may request this document to prevent child abduction or custody disputes—and failure to present it could result in travel delays or denied entry.

Consent Letters for Child Travel

Families are also strongly advised to carry a notarized consent letter from the non-traveling parent if a child is traveling with only one parent, a relative, or a family friend. This is especially important for divorced or separated parents. Border officials may request this document to prevent child abduction or custody disputes—and failure to present it could result in travel delays or denied entry.

Coming Soon: EES and ETIAS Systems

Entry/Exit System (EES) launches Oct. 12, 2025. Non-EU travelers over 12 must submit biometric data (fingerprints and facial scans). Expect potential delays during rollout.

ETIAS (Travel Authorization) is due between October and December 2026. A proposed fee hike from €7 to €20 is raising concerns about cost impacts on families.

2. Flying This Summer? Know These Airport Updates

Upgrades at Manchester Airport

Terminal 2 now features:

• Sensory-friendly quiet zones
• Family and gender-neutral restrooms
• Baby-changing and nursing rooms

Liquid Rules Vary Widely

Some European airports, including Rome Fiumicino and Milan Malpensa, now allow carry-on liquids up to 2 liters thanks to new scanning technology. In the U.K., Edinburgh and Birmingham airports are among the first to scrap the 100ml liquid limit, with more expected to follow as upgraded scanners roll out.

However, many airports still enforce the 100ml rule, especially for flights to the United States, Israel, and some non-EU destinations. Always check your departure airport’s specific policies to avoid delays and ensure a smooth security experience.

3. Wildfires and Local Tensions: Regional Travel Concerns

Wildfire Risks in the Mediterranean

Wildfire hotspots include:

• Turkey (over 600 wildfires this year)
• Sardinia, Italy
• Crete and Athens, Greece
• Cyprus (worst fires in 50 years)

Travelers have faced evacuations and property damage. Make sure you know the emergency number (112), have evacuation plans, and check your travel insurance covers natural disasters.

Local Backlash in Majorca, Spain

A growing wave of anti-tourism sentiment is reshaping the experience for visitors to Majorca, one of Spain’s top holiday destinations. Residents frustrated by years of overtourism have staged protests, put up banners with slogans like “STAY HOME,” and voiced concerns about the environmental and social toll of mass tourism.

Key issues driving local discontent include water shortages, overcrowded public spaces, housing pressure, and infrastructure strain. During the peak travel season, beaches, roads, and city centers often become overwhelmed, which locals say diminishes their quality of life. The backlash has left some tourists feeling unwelcome or even intimidated.

Families traveling to Majorca this August may notice a quieter-than-usual atmosphere. Many resorts report lower occupancy, and bookings for excursions have dropped by about 20% compared to previous years. Some areas that were once bustling with activity are now described as “eerily quiet” or “struggling.”

In response, Spanish authorities are launching campaigns focused on sustainable tourism and working to rebuild trust with international visitors. However, Majorca’s government is also moving toward placing limits on tourism growth, signaling a long-term shift in how the island manages its appeal. Families planning a visit should stay informed about local developments and be respectful of community concerns.

4. Upcoming Festivals: Cultural Events for Families

Festival season is already well underway across Europe, but all is not lost. These standout festivals are yet to come and are designed specifically to engage families and entertain children of all ages.

Edinburgh Festival Fringe– Scotland, Aug. 1–25: At the world’s largest arts festival you’ll find street events with magic acts, circus performers, and living statues. Daily shows feature everything from buskers and face painters to a high-energy 5:15 p.m. finale at the Mound Precinct, making it a perfect day out for families.

Kendal Calling – Lake District, England, Aug. 1–4: Alongside a strong music lineup, the festival features a “Kids Calling” area with yoga, inflatables, theater shows, circus workshops, and face painting for ages 0–12.

Green Man Festival – Wales, Aug. 14–17: Set in the scenic Brecon Beacons, it offers a “Little Folk” section with a “Time” theme for children up to age 11. Open daily with free activities and a Sunday costume parade.

Rock en Seine – Paris, France, Aug. 20–24: While global headliners entertain the main stage, “Mini Rock” offers a safe, creative space for kids aged 6 to 11—open exclusively to children of festivalgoers from Aug. 22–24. With DJ mixing, songwriting workshops, live concerts, tales by twilight, and hands-on music and art activities, it’s a festival within a festival designed to inspire the next generation of music lovers.

La Tomatina – Buñol, Spain, Aug. 27: Famous for its chaotic one-hour tomato-throwing spectacle, the event also features Tomatina Infantil, a scaled-down tomato battle for kids aged 4 to 14. With safety measures, playful rules, and lots of pulp, it lets young participants enjoy the iconic mess while parents watch on with pride—and towels.

Festival Mondial des Théâtres de Marionnettes – Charleville-Mézières, France, Sept. 19–28: Held every two years, this world-renowned puppetry festival transforms the city into a stage for 250 troupes from five continents. With over 50 shows daily across 44 venues, and street performances that fill the city center, it offers a magical, multicultural experience for families. Many productions are tailored to young audiences.

5. Final Tips for a Smooth August Trip

Here’s a quick roundup to help your August travels go as smoothly as possible:

• Check passport and visa requirements early – Especially for children, as rules can vary by country.
• Review airport liquid restrictions – Not all airports have the same rules; verify before you pack.
• Stay updated on weather and wildfire alerts – Use official apps or local news sources during your stay.
• Be mindful of local communities – Respect posted signs, cultural norms, and regional concerns about tourism.
• Secure travel insurance – Ensure it covers natural disasters, cancellations, and medical emergencies.

With the right preparation, August 2025 can be filled with discovery, joy, and meaningful moments for the whole family. We’ll be back next month with more family travel updates. Sign up for our newsletter below to get notified when the next issue drops and receive a bonus family packing list to help you get organised!