Dreaming of a tropical escape but don’t have a passport? Good news! U.S. citizens can still visit several stunning destinations like Puerto Rico, Guam, the U.S. Virgin Islands, American Samoa, and the Northern Mariana Islands without a passport, as long as they bring valid government-issued identification.

However, starting May 2025, Real ID requirements will take effect for domestic air travel, as outlined by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) (source). While a Real ID-compliant driver’s license is needed for domestic flights, it does not replace a passport for international travel.

Here are the best tropical destinations you can visit without a passport and how to get there.

1. American Samoa
   For travellers seeking a mix of volcanic peaks, coral reefs, and lush rain forests, American Samoa is an excellent option.

Required Documents:
Certified birth certificate or U.S. passport
Proof of onward travel or employment in American Samoa
Travel Tip: Flights to Pago Pago International Airport (PPG) are available via Honolulu (HNL)—ensure your flight does not connect through an international destination.
More Info: U.S. Department of the Interior (source).

2. Guam
   Known for its white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, Guam is a favorite tropical escape.

Required Documents:
Real ID or valid state/federal-issued photo ID
Certified birth certificate
Travel Tip: Ensure your itinerary flies through Honolulu to avoid layovers in Seoul or Tokyo, which require a passport.
More Info: Visit Guam (source).

3. Puerto Rico
   A blend of Spanish heritage, vibrant culture, and stunning beaches, Puerto Rico offers a unique island getaway.

Required Documents:
Government-issued ID (No birth certificate needed!)
Travel Tip: Direct flights from major U.S. cities make Puerto Rico one of the easiest passport-free travel options.
More Info: Discover Puerto Rico (source).

4. U.S. Virgin Islands (St. Thomas, St. John, and St. Croix)
   With its turquoise waters and world-class resorts, the U.S. Virgin Islands offer a luxurious and hassle-free getaway.

Required Documents:
Valid government-issued ID
Certified birth certificate
More Info: Virgin Islands Port Authority (source).

5. Northern Mariana Islands
   A group of 14 picturesque islands, including Saipan, Tinian, and Rota, the Northern Mariana Islands are a hidden paradise.

Required Documents:
Government-issued ID
Certified birth certificate
Travel Tip: Fly through Honolulu to avoid passport-required layovers.
More Info: Travel + Leisure (source).

6. International Closed-Loop Cruises
   A closed-loop cruise departs and returns to the same U.S. port, allowing passengers to visit select Caribbean, Mexican, and Central American destinations without a passport.

Required Documents:
Government-issued ID
Certified birth certificate
More Info: U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) (source).
Final Travel Tips
Real ID becomes mandatory for U.S. domestic flights starting May 2025—ensure yours is up to date.
Flights through international airports (Tokyo, Seoul, etc.) require a passport, so plan routes carefully.
Always carry additional proof of U.S. citizenship, such as a certified birth certificate, even if not explicitly required.
With these passport-free destinations, your next tropical vacation is just a flight away!

The post Puerto Rico, Guam, US Virgin Islands and more: Explore passport-free tropical destinations for US citizens, What new you need to know? appeared first on Travel And Tour World.