Where Americans Can Travel Without a Passport in 2026

Only 48% of Americans have a valid passport. If yours is expired or you never got one, you still have incredible travel options.

No Passport Needed (US ID Only)

US Territories

• Puerto Rico — San Juan, rainforests, beaches. Domestic flight, no passport
• US Virgin Islands — St. Thomas, St. John, St. Croix. Caribbean without the paperwork
• Guam — Pacific island. Long flight but no passport required
• American Samoa — Remote Pacific. Truly off the beaten path

Passport Card Only (Not Full Passport)

A passport card ($65 vs $165 for a book) works for:

• Mexico — Land and sea crossings only (not flights)
• Canada — Land and sea crossings only
• Caribbean — Closed-loop cruises (departing and returning to same US port)

Where to Get a Passport Fast

If you decide you DO want international destinations:

• Routine: 6-8 weeks ($165)
• Expedited: 2-3 weeks ($225)
• Emergency: 24 hours at a regional passport agency (appointment required, proof of travel within 72 hours needed)

The Best No-Passport Trip

Puerto Rico is the best international-feeling trip without a passport. Old San Juan's colonial architecture, El Yunque rainforest, bioluminescent bay in Vieques, and La Placita's nightlife scene — all without leaving US territory.

But if you want truly international — get that passport and browse Local Friends on Roavi. Colombia is 3 hours from Miami, and a Local Friend there will show you why it's worth the paperwork.