The United States is vast, ranking among the world’s largest countries by land area, with an extraordinary range of landscapes and destinations. From Alaska’s remote wilderness to Hawaii’s island beaches, along with 63 national parks and globally renowned cities, many Americans can travel extensively without ever leaving the country. Still, lacking a passport—or waiting for a renewal—does not necessarily mean international travel is off the table.
There are several destinations outside the continental U.S. that American citizens can visit without a passport, provided certain requirements are met. Travelers should note, however, that valid government-issued identification, such as a Real ID, is still required at TSA security checkpoints.
American Samoa allows entry without a passport for U.S. citizens, but documentation is essential. Visitors must present a government-issued photo ID along with a certified birth certificate as proof of nationality. In addition, travelers are required to show either an onward or return ticket, or documentation verifying employment in the territory.
Guam also permits passport-free travel, though routing matters. Flights must be booked through Honolulu, as transiting through international hubs such as Tokyo or Seoul would require a passport. Upon arrival, travelers must present a valid government-issued ID and an original or certified copy of their birth certificate.
Traveling to Puerto Rico is comparable to domestic travel within the mainland United States. U.S. citizens only need a valid government-issued ID to enter, and no birth certificate or passport is required.
For the U.S. Virgin Islands—St. Thomas, St. John, and St. Croix—travelers are generally expected to carry both a government-issued ID and a birth certificate. While some visitors report that birth certificates are not always requested, carrying one is strongly recommended in case proof of citizenship is needed.
The Northern Mariana Islands, located northeast of Guam, follow similar entry requirements. U.S. citizens can enter without a passport if they fly through Honolulu and avoid layovers in countries where passports are mandatory. A government-issued ID and an original or certified birth certificate are required upon entry.
Closed-loop cruises offer another option for international travel without a passport. These cruises begin and end at the same U.S. port and remain within the Western Hemisphere. For instance, a cruise departing from Miami and returning there after visiting destinations such as The Bahamas or Bermuda typically does not require a passport.
On closed-loop cruises, travelers may use a government-issued ID and a birth certificate instead of a passport, while still being able to visit countries including Mexico, Canada, Jamaica, Belize, and Costa Rica. This option provides a practical alternative for Americans seeking international experiences without traditional travel documents.
