For US citizens, a passport is required to enter most foreign countries. However, there are some nearby destinations in North America and the Caribbean that Americans can visit without needing a passport.
Domestic Destinations
Within the United States, passports are not necessary for travel. You can fly or drive between states freely with just a government-issued ID like a driver’s license.
So anywhere in the 50 states, including Hawaii and Alaska, can be reached without a passport. The same goes for traveling between the mainland US and Puerto Rico.
US Territories
The US has several territories that do not require passports for American citizens to visit.
These include:
Puerto Rico
Known for its beaches, rainforests, and Spanish colonial architecture. San Juan is the colorful capital.
The island of Puerto Rico is a vibrant destination that offers a unique blend of natural beauty and rich history. With its pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and charming Spanish colonial architecture, it has become a popular choice for travelers seeking both relaxation and cultural experiences.
San Juan, the capital city of Puerto Rico, serves as a captivating gateway to this enchanting island. Its lively atmosphere is characterized by colorful buildings adorned with intricate balconies and cobblestone streets that exude old-world charm.
US Virgin Islands
Made up of 3 main islands with white sand beaches, coral reefs, and historical sites like St. Thomas.
The US Virgin Islands, located in the Caribbean Sea, are a tropical paradise that offers an array of breathtaking landscapes and captivating attractions. The archipelago consists of three main islands: St. Thomas, St. John, and St. Croix.
St. Thomas, with its vibrant atmosphere and bustling capital city of Charlotte Amalie, is known for its stunning white sand beaches that stretch along turquoise waters.
Northern Mariana Islands
Tropical, mountainous islands with WWII historical sites and indigenous Chamorro culture.
The Northern Mariana Islands, located in the western Pacific Ocean, form a tropical paradise that captivates visitors with its breathtaking natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Comprising 14 volcanic islands, this U.S. commonwealth is known for its lush mountains, pristine beaches, and crystal-clear turquoise waters.
One of the main attractions of the Northern Mariana Islands is its World War II historical sites.
American Samoa
Remote volcanic islands 2,500 miles southwest of Hawaii, with rugged landscapes and Polynesian traditions.
The remote volcanic islands of American Samoa are a hidden gem in the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean. Located approximately 2,500 miles southwest of Hawaii, this breathtaking archipelago is comprised of five main islands and two coral atolls. Each island boasts its own unique charm, offering visitors an authentic experience filled with rugged landscapes and rich Polynesian traditions.
As you step foot on these enchanting islands, you will be captivated by their untouched beauty.
Guam
Located in the western Pacific with tropical beaches, WWII memorials, and a unique blend of Asian and American influences.
Guam, a small island territory of the United States, is an enchanting destination that offers visitors a perfect blend of natural beauty and historical significance. Nestled in the western Pacific Ocean, Guam boasts pristine tropical beaches with crystal-clear turquoise waters that are ideal for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts.
One cannot help but be captivated by the island’s rich history, prominently marked by its World War II memorials.
Canada and Mexico
The US neighbors of Canada and Mexico have special regulations allowing passport-free travel for Americans:
Canada
US citizens can visit without a passport when traveling by land or sea. You need an Enhanced Driver’s License or trusted traveler card.
If you are a US citizen planning to explore the beauty of Canada by land or sea, you will be pleased to know that a passport is not mandatory for your journey. Instead, there are two alternate forms of identification that can grant you entry into Canada – an Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL) or a trusted traveler card.
Mexico
Mexico allows passport-free entry for US citizens within 25 miles of the border. A passport card or Global Entry card is required.
This policy, known as the Border Zone program, makes travel between the United States and Mexico much more convenient for those who live in border states. The 25-mile range extends from the US-Mexico border and includes popular towns and cities such as Tijuana, Ensenada, Ciudad Juarez, and Nuevo Laredo.
To take advantage of this passport-free entry privilege, US citizens need to present either a valid passport card or a Global Entry card when crossing into Mexico.
Closed-Loop Cruises
Americans can also travel on “closed-loop cruises” which start and end at the same US port without a passport. The ship must only stop at US ports or territories.
These closed-loop cruises provide a convenient option for Americans looking to explore various destinations without the need for a passport. As long as the journey begins and concludes at a US port, travelers can embark on exciting voyages that take them to captivating locations while still adhering to domestic regulations.
One of the significant advantages of closed-loop cruises is their ability to showcase the incredible diversity within US territories and ports. From tropical escapes in Puerto Rico or the U.S.
Have Proper Documentation
When traveling without a passport, having the right documents is critical. Make sure you have the required ID cards, birth certificates, or citizenship proof needed for each destination.
While passports aren’t always mandatory, they make travel easier and should be obtained when possible. But for short hops within the US territories or neighbors, you can leave the passport at home.
Now that you have a list of destinations where you don’t need a Passport to travel, here is how you can book cheap flights.
