Do I really need to travel with my passport is a frequent question here at TBK. For some destinations and cruises; a passport isn’t technically required (such as the U.S. Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, and some cruises in the Caribbean). Also, when I mention passport… I mean the passport book and not just the passport card (click here to apply for a passport).
Even if your destination doesn’t legally require you entering with a passport, in my opinion it’s not a good idea to travel without one. I always highly recommend all my clients travel with a passport for their trips or cruises I’ve planned. The hassles it can create aren’t worth the dollars or time saved in not obtaining a passport. Any time I travel outside the continental U.S. I have passport in hand.
These are some instances you’ll need a passport:
-You miss your cruise ship departure from Florida and have to “catch the ship” at the next port. Arrival into this country may require a passport for Americans to enter.
-If you miss your cruise after a day in port and have to meet the ship at its next destination.
-If you encounter an emergency or deviation from your original flight route.
-Due to an emergency, you have to disembark your cruise early and return to the U.S. A passport is required when you re-enter the States by air.
Hope this clarifies why it’s important to always travel with your passport when outside the U.S.!
Click here for my TBK article “5 Tips for Renewing Your Passport”.
Until the next adventure – bon voyage!
Kris
