Where Americans Can Travel Without a Passport in 2026
Oscar Garcia
Founder of Roavi
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.
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