Dreaming of warm beaches or island escapes but stuck waiting on a passport?

You're in luck! US citizens can still embark on unforgettable adventures without one.

Several gorgeous destinations welcome Americans without requiring a passport or even a visa, making spontaneous travel more accessible than ever.

Whether you're craving Caribbean sun, Pacific culture, or a no-hassle cruise, these stunning spots let you pack your bags and go with just a valid government-issued ID and, in some cases, a certified birth certificate.

1. Puerto Rico: Your easiest island escape​

For a tropical getaway that feels exotic yet is technically domestic, Puerto Rico tops the list.

As a US territory, Americans can fly here without a passport—just bring your driver’s license or any government-issued ID.


No customs, no currency exchange, and no international red tape.

Explore colorful Old San Juan, hike through their rainforest, or relax on beaches—all while using your US dollars and cellphone plan as if you were back home.

2. US Virgin Islands: Caribbean paradise, no passport needed​

The US Virgin Islands—St. Thomas, St. John, and St. Croix—offer a dreamy Caribbean experience with no passport required. You’ll just need a government-issued ID and a certified birth certificate to enter.

Each island offers something unique:

• St. Thomas buzzes with shopping and nightlife.
• St. John is a nature lover’s paradise, with lush trails and protected beaches.
• St. Croix combines culture, history, and serenity.

Since you're technically still in the US, you’ll enjoy domestic conveniences like the dollar and cell service—no international roaming fees here!

3. Guam: A pacific island adventure—no Passport (with a catch)​

Yes, you can travel to Guam without a passport—but only under specific conditions.

As a US territory, entry without a passport is allowed if your flight connects through Honolulu.

If you pass through any international airport (like Tokyo or Seoul), a passport is required.

Stick to the Honolulu route, and you can explore Guam’s stunning beaches, Chamorro culture, and history using your government-issued ID and a certified US birth certificate.

4. Northern Mariana Islands: Underrated gem in the Pacific​

Similar to Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands allow passport-free travel—but only if your flight routes through Honolulu and you bring your certified birth certificate along with a government-issued ID.

These islands are less crowded and full of natural beauty, historic sites, and tranquil beaches.

It's perfect for travelers seeking a more off-the-grid tropical experience.

Special mention: American Samoa—Polynesian culture, no passport needed​

American Samoa also allows entry without a passport, as long as you present:

• A valid government-issued ID
• A certified copy of your US birth certificate

If you don’t have the birth certificate, you’ll need a passport. So double-check your documents before flying.

Expect lush landscapes, volcanoes, and a strong Polynesian cultural presence in this breathtaking and remote US territory.

Bonus: Closed-loop cruises—see the world without a passport​

Not into flying? Take a closed-loop cruise.

A fifth no-fly option: closed-loop cruises—those that start and end at the same US port and stay within the Western Hemisphere.

Cruises like Miami to the Bahamas or Bermuda usually don’t need a passport.

But if the cruise ends at a different port—say, Miami to San Diego—you will need one.

These cruises visit countries like:

• Mexico
• Canada
• Jamaica
• Belize
• Costa Rica

And the best part? You can travel with just a government-issued ID and an official birth certificate. However, if your cruise starts in one US city and ends in another, a passport is required.


However, in some places, a valid passport is required for travel, like to the Federated States of Micronesia, the Republic of the Marshall Islands, and the Republic of Palau.

Read next:

• Apple’s new digital passport feature: What it means for your next flight
• Is your next vacation on the danger list? See which 21 countries Americans are now being told to avoid

Have you visited any of these passport-free destinations? Got tips for traveling without a passport—or questions about what to expect? Drop your stories, advice, and dream destinations in the comments below!