You don't need a passport to visit these tropical (and international) spots as an American!
Surprise! You don't need a passport for these tropical paradises (and more!)
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The United States boasts a diverse landscape, spanning from the rugged wilderness of Alaska to the tropical beaches of Hawaii. With 63 national parks and many of the world's most popular cities, it's easy to see why many Americans never feel the need to leave their home country. However, the USA offers more than just domestic travel options. Even without a passport, there are numerous international destinations readily accessible to American citizens.
Actually, America is so vast that you can spend your whole life here without leaving the country – and many people do. But you don't have to stay within the United States just because you lack a passport or are waiting for a new one. There are plenty of international spots Americans can visit without a passport. (Just a heads up, starting May 7th, 2025, you'll need a Real ID at TSA checkpoints – more info on that here!)
1. American Samoa
To go to American Samoa without a passport, you must present your government-issued ID and a certified birth certificate showing your nationality. You also need a ticket for onward travel out of American Samoa or proof of employment there.
2. Guam
To enter Guam without a passport, first book your flights through Honolulu, since travel via major hubs like Tokyo or Seoul needs a passport. Then, show your government-issued ID and either the original or a certified copy of your birth certificate.
3. Puerto Rico
Visiting Puerto Rico is similar to traveling to Pennsylvania; any American citizen wishing to go to the island just needs to show their government-issued ID. A birth certificate isn't necessary.
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4. U.S. Virgin Islands
To travel to the U.S. Virgin Islands, which include St. Thomas, St. John, and St. Croix, you must have a valid government-issued ID and your birth certificate. While some travel forums mention the birth certificate isn't always necessary, it's wise to bring it just in case you're asked for proof of citizenship. In addition, a passport may be required for re-entry into the United States.
5. Northern Mariana Islands
Located just northeast of Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands consist of 14 islands, also known as The Marianas. Similar to Guam, if you want to enter the islands without a passport, you need to fly through Honolulu, avoiding layovers in countries requiring passports. You can visit the Northern Mariana Islands with a government-issued ID, along with either an original or certified birth certificate.
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6. International closed-loop cruises
You can also travel internationally without a passport by booking a "closed-loop cruise," which starts and ends at the same U.S. port and only sails within the Western Hemisphere.
A closed-loop cruise might leave from Miami and stop at Bermuda or The Bahamas before coming back to Miami (no passport needed). But you can't leave from Miami and go to Panama and finish your cruise in San Diego. That trip needs a passport since it doesn't start and end at the same place.
On closed-loop cruises, you can bring a government-issued ID and a government-issued birth certificate instead of a passport and still visit foreign countries like Belize, Canada, Costa Rica, Jamaica, and Mexico, to name a few.
