Where You Can Travel Without a US Passport

The United States is a vast landmass, allowing citizens to travel between states at the same time it takes to travel between European countries. Since all 50 states are part of the US, no passport is required for domestic travel. However, US territories in the Pacific have specific rules.

Pre-9/11 travel requirements were lax, but now a passport is usually necessary. There are exceptions, though. For instance, some US territories like Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands etc don’t require a passport for entry, but valid photo identification is still necessary. Always check current travel requirements before planning a trip.

In this article, we will show you the best places that you can travel without a United States (US) Passport.

Top 5 Best Places to Travel Without a US Passport

If you do have not a US Passport OR you just forgot to take it with you when traveling then you have the opportunity to travel to these places:

1. U.S. Virgin Islands

U.S. citizens traveling from Puerto Rico or the U.S. mainland do not need a passport because the U.S. Virgin Islands have been an official U.S. territory since 1917. Three islands make up this Caribbean destination: St. Croix, St. John, and St. Thomas. Each is among the top tropical destinations to visit because of its rich history and culture in addition to its gorgeous beaches.

The 69th St. John Celebration will take place this summer on the island of St. John. It consists of three weeks of culinary festivals, boat races, parades, and other events. It starts on June 10 and includes Emancipation Day, a July 3 local holiday honoring the end of slavery.

2. Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico does not require a passport for entry. As long as you have a valid ID card or birth certificate, you are welcome to visit this beautiful island in the Caribbean, which is around 1,000 miles away from southeast Florida. You can enter without a passport even if you are a lawful permanent resident but not a citizen of the United States.

While in Puerto Rico, you may go trekking on trails, experience a range of water sports, visit some of the world’s greatest beaches, and even take a kayak to Mosquito Bay, where the sea shines. Overall, if you want to avoid the trouble of applying for a passport, Puerto Rico is the perfect place to go on vacation.

3. Northern Mariana Islands

The United States has a distinct territory in the northwest Pacific Ocean called the Northern Mariana Islands. The archipelago consists of 14 islands, the southernmost of which is Guam, albeit an autonomous nation. You won’t need a passport to enter or depart the archipelago because the islands are part of the United States. As in the other US territories, you must still possess a current identification card or birth certificate.

Saipan, the biggest island, is among the most popular destinations, along with Tinian and Rota. Some really spectacular views, including Banzai Cliff, Mount Topachau, Micro Beach, and other historical sites, may be seen in the space between these islands.

4. Key West, Florida

Key West, Florida’s southernmost point, is a good option if you like a laid-back island atmosphere. Hotels.com reports that in Key West, between June and August of 2023, average hotel rates were 15% less than in 2022.

Dry Tortugas National Park, located around 70 miles (113 km) west of Key West, is a must-see destination when visiting Key West. This area is distinct since it is primarily made up of an open ocean with seven tiny islands that can only be reached by boat or aircraft. However, the breathtaking Fort Jefferson, picture-perfect blue seas, coral reefs, and a wide variety of fauna make the journey worthwhile if you want to go there.

5. Washington, D.C

More than 170 nations have embassies located along Embassy Row, a section of Massachusetts Avenue in Washington, D.C. The embassies are normally open to tourists, and many of them host cultural activities like concerts, film screenings, and art exhibits.

Usually, the embassies are housed in stately structures that exemplify the national architectural styles of their various nations. Additionally, it’s simple to try cuisine from several nations in the numerous eateries in the vicinity when strolling between embassies.

Do You Need a Passport to Fly in the U.S.?

Travelers in the United States do not always need to show their passports at airport security checkpoints, but those who are 18 years of age or older do require some form of legitimate identification. Additional legitimate forms of identity consist of:

• Border crossing card
• Department of Homeland Security trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, Nexus, Sentri, Fast)
• Permanent resident card
• Licenses or other official identification cards with a picture.

Additionally, state-issued licenses and IDs must comply with REAL ID requirements to be utilized at airport checkpoints starting on May 7, 2025. The Transportation Security Administration will accept alternative types of legitimate identification, such as passports if your license isn’t compatible by then.