Passports – Yes, You Should Have One!

We often hear this question, and we completely understand. Getting a passport can seem like a hassle and an expense, especially when kids are involved. But we truly believe that every U.S. citizen should have one. It's an essential travel document, and it’s easy to see how many people have missed out on amazing, last-minute travel opportunities simply because they weren't prepared. Here’s why it’s worth the effort:

A U.S. passport is valid for 10 years if you’re over 16, which makes the annual cost about $15 when you break it down. It’s a great value for such an important document. Sure, applying for your first passport can be a bit time-consuming, but after that, renewing by mail is easy.

What’s a Passport and How Does it Differ from a Passport Card?

A U.S. passport is an internationally recognized travel document issued by the U.S. Department of State. It verifies your identity and citizenship and is required by most countries for entry and exit. If you’re traveling internationally, you need a valid passport to re-enter the U.S. If you're only traveling by land to Canada or Mexico, you can use a less expensive passport card instead of a full passport. However, a passport card has its limitations (it can’t be used for air travel), so it’s usually better to get the full passport.

A passport is essential for air travel, and it’s always recommended to have one for peace of mind. If you're not sure where to begin, there’s plenty of information on how to apply here.

Do You Need a Passport for a Caribbean Cruise?

If you’re cruising the Caribbean from a U.S. port, you might not need a passport in some cases. However, having one is still highly recommended. To travel from a U.S. port and return there, you’ll need proof of U.S. citizenship (such as a birth certificate), government-issued ID (like a driver’s license), and possibly a marriage certificate if your last name has changed. That being said, it’s always better to have a passport. Why? If an emergency arises and you need to fly home, not having a passport can be a major headache. For example, during the Carnival Triumph debacle, many passengers couldn’t be flown home from Mexico because they didn’t have their passports – the ship had to be towed all the way back to Mobile, extending the ordeal for a day or two. A passport ensures that if you’re injured or ill while abroad, you can get back home with minimal hassle. And don’t get us started on travel insurance – you’ll want the added protection that comes with having a passport in case of an emergency.

Do My Children Need Passports?

Yes! Even infants must have their own passport to travel internationally. Be sure to check the expiration date of your child’s passport – if your child was 15 or under when it was issued, it will expire in five years. Some countries may also have additional requirements to help prevent child abductions. These could include proof of relationship (for example, a birth certificate) and consent from any non-accompanying parent(s). It’s important to check the specific requirements for your destination well ahead of time.

Traveling as Mr. and Mrs. “Newlywed” – Can We Use Our New Last Name?

It’s tempting to use your newlywed name on your honeymoon, but it’s crucial that your passport matches the name on your airline ticket. If your passport is in your maiden name, you’ll need to make sure your flight reservation reflects that. The name on your ticket must match the name in your passport exactly, or you could run into problems at check-in. Once you’re at your honeymoon destination, you can absolutely introduce yourselves as Mr. and Mrs. "Newlywed," but when traveling, stick to the name on your passport. After your trip, you can apply for a name change on your passport.

What If My Passport Is Stolen?

A passport theft is one of the last things any traveler wants to experience, but it’s something that can happen. If it does, don't panic! We recommend taking three photocopies of your passport before you leave home: one for a trusted friend or relative, one for your travel consultant to keep on file, and one to carry separately from the original. This makes it much easier to replace if necessary. If your passport is stolen, report it immediately to the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. They’ll help you get a replacement so you can return home. You should also take a set of passport photos with you to speed up the replacement process. Keep your original passport in a secure location, such as a hotel room safe, to minimize the risk of theft while you're abroad. You don’t need to carry it with you all the time – depending on your destination, we can advise you on the best approach.

Passport Delays and Backlog

It’s worth noting that passport processing was delayed during the pandemic, and there’s still a backlog of documents being processed. If you're planning to travel next year, now is the time to get your passport application or renewal submitted. We want you to be prepared and ensure you don't miss out on any travel opportunities. If you have any questions or need help getting your passport sorted, we’re here to assist you.

Your next adventure is waiting, and we’re ready to help you make sure your travel documents are in order. Contact us when you’re ready to start planning your next getaway!