While it’s common to hear that you need a passport to travel abroad, there are some places where US citizens can travel without one.
The Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, and American Samoa are three of these destinations. Here, you can visit some of the most serene beaches and partake in various fun activities such as snorkeling and hiking.
1. Mexico
If you are traveling to Mexico for vacation or business, you may not need a passport. However, you should have one if you plan on entering the United States after your trip.
All US citizens, regardless of age, must present a valid passport to enter the United States by land or air. The passport must be in good condition and it should have at least one blank page per stamp.
In addition to a passport, you should also have a multiple migratory form (FMM). This form is required by all airlines and is available at airports and border crossings.
It is also a good idea to have a travel health kit with you in case of medical emergencies. This can include medicines, travel vaccines, and a first aid kit.
You should also pack a camera and spare batteries for your phone. It is also a good idea to carry a travel insurance policy as well.
Mexican immigration officials have the right to ask visitors for their legal status at any time, so it’s important that you carry a tourist card with you when you’re in Mexico. This will provide immigration authorities with proof of your legal stay in the country and will help you avoid detention at immigration checkpoints or being questioned by police.
Some countries are part of the APEC agreement, which allows travelers from these countries to visit Mexico without needing a visa. You should request a tourist card online prior to your trip, or you can get one from your airline when you fly into Mexico. Keep it with you at all times, as immigration officials will stamp it upon arrival in the country.
2. Canada
Traveling without a passport in Canada has become a popular option for US citizens. This is because a number of destinations in the country are located close to the border or within a short drive from a few US cities, making cross-border trips a breeze.
American citizens can also visit Mexico by land or on a closed-loop cruise without a passport. This allows them to enjoy many of the culturally vibrant areas that Mexico has to offer such as Mexico City and San Miguel de Allende.
However, if you want to visit Canada by air, you must have a valid passport. This is because of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) introduced by the U.S. government to standardize travel documentation and strengthen border security.
There are certain travelers that need to have a visa to enter Canada, such as flight crew, civil aviation inspectors, accident investigators, members of the Armed Forces of a foreign country and diplomats accredited by the government. They should check with their embassy or Canadian High Commission to see what documents they need to bring to Canada.
Americans can also travel to Canada by land without a passport, though this is primarily for people who are living nearby or working across the border. They can also travel without a passport on a closed-loop cruise, which will typically visit many of the east coast destinations in Canada.
Americans can also travel to Canada by sea with a NEXUS card, which is a type of traveling document that can be obtained through a special expedited process. This is a joint program between the US and Canada, so it’s important to understand the details of this procedure before you decide to apply for one.
3. Puerto Rico
Located in the Caribbean, Puerto Rico is an unincorporated US territory that’s known for its mountains, waterfalls and tropical rainforests. Its capital San Juan is a vibrant city with colorful Spanish colonial buildings and old fortresses like El Morro and La Fortaleza.
Despite its small size, it’s still home to plenty of attractions and activities for travelers, from historic museums to beaches and casinos. Moreover, it’s an affordable destination for weekend getaways and vacations.
Since Puerto Rico is part of the United States, a passport isn’t needed to enter or exit the country. However, a valid government-issued photo ID is still necessary.
Travelers must ensure that their passport is valid, has at least two consecutive blank pages and isn’t expiring for at least six months before visiting the island. This will save them from having to go through the hassle of getting a new one.
A visa is also required for foreign nationals who are planning to visit the island. For more information on what to do before you leave for your vacation, check out the official website of the United States Department of State.
It’s important to note that in May 2023, the US will require all citizens to present a valid REAL ID for domestic travel. This could make a trip to Puerto Rico with a passport more difficult, especially for non-US citizens who don’t have a REAL ID.
In addition to this, the United States government is taking a very aggressive stance against the coronavirus pandemic and has mandated a mandatory masking policy. It’s a good idea to take basic COVID precautions when traveling to Puerto Rico, such as covering your mouth and nose when eating or drinking in public places.
4. Rincon
Rincon is a beach town that’s popular with tourists and locals alike. It’s a great choice for travelers looking to relax in a tropical paradise with beautiful beaches and affordable hotels.
One of the best reasons to visit Rincon is for its stunning sunsets, which can be seen all along the coast. This western hub is also a popular destination for surfers, thanks to its famous beaches.
You’ll also find plenty of opportunities to snorkel and dive in Rincon, and you can even paddle atop bioluminescent bays if you’re lucky! You’ll also want to make sure you take in some of the other incredible experiences this island has to offer, including hiking to historic lighthouses near Cabo Rojo and exploring the serene waterfalls in the rainforest.
Fortunately, Rincon is easy to get around with a rental car or taxi. Many major US rental companies have offices in Rincon, plus you can hire an Uber driver if needed.
Restaurants: There are tons of restaurants in Rincon, so you’re bound to find a spot that suits your taste and budget. Try a frozen tropical drink at Calypso Café, or go for a local burger at the Lazy Parrot. If you’re craving pizza, check out Mangia Mia.
Travel Documents: To re-enter the United States, be sure to have all of your travel documents on hand. This includes your passport book or card, Nexus, SENTRI, or FAST card.
Whether you’re traveling to Rincon for the amazing beaches, or just wanting to experience a new country without having to worry about passport issues, it’s important to ensure you’ve got all of your travel documents ready before you head out. If you fail to do this, you could be denied entry into Mexico and forced to return home.
5. Culebra
If you’re a US citizen, you can fly or take a closed-loop cruise to Culebra without a passport. However, if you’re a foreigner or planning to drive to the island, you’ll need a passport for entry.
Culebra is a small Caribbean island 20 miles off the coast of Fajardo, surrounded by more than 20 cays and vibrant underwater landscapes. It’s the perfect place for a tropical getaway, where you can swim with turtles, snorkel, and relax on pristine beaches.
You can book a day trip to Culebra from the San Juan area that includes pickup and drop-off as well as transportation, snorkeling equipment, and lunch. You can also opt to stay on the island for a couple of days and spend time on Flamenco Beach, Zoni Beach, shopping downtown or feeding tarpons at Dingy Dock’s.
Another great option to consider is booking a tour that leaves from Fajardo on the east side of the island. This will give you the opportunity to visit two different snorkeling spots on Culebra and learn about its history and nature.
If you want to stay on the island, El Navegante de Culebra is a nice hotel that’s two miles from Flamenco Beach and close to restaurants. You can also stay at Club Seabourne Hotel, which is four miles from the main part of town and is a quiet place to stay.
If you’re looking to travel without a passport in the Caribbean, Culebra is an excellent choice. It’s safe, has no major nuisances and a variety of hotels to fit any budget. From tent camping to lovely villas, there’s something for everyone. Plus, the beaches are some of the best in the world.