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.
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.!
Until the next adventure – bon voyage!
Kris
