FAQs
Below are commonly asked questions regarding travel.
Q) Where can I travel without a passport?
A) U.S. citizens can travel domestically to all 50 states, as well as, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands without a passport. You are also able to cruise to several destinations as long as your trip begins and ends at a U.S. port (closed-loop). Passports are needed for all International air travel.
Q) When do I need to renew my passport?
A) If you plan to travel, consider renewing before 6 months of it expiring. Some destinations require that you have 6 months remaining from the time you return from your trip. There are other destinations that require a shorter amount of time or none at all. While the country may not require 6 months, some airlines may still enforce 6 months and deny boarding if your passport expires earlier.
Q) What is the difference between a passport book and a passport card?
A) A passport book allows you to travel internationally by Air, Land, & Sea. A passport card can only be used for entering the U.S. by land from Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean Islands, Bermuda, or sea ports.
Q) What is the difference between All-Inclusive and a European Plan?
A) All-Inclusive means that the accommodations, meals, and beverages (non-alcoholic and alcoholic) are included in the price. Often times, non-motorized water sports are also included. A European Plan is a price that only covers the accommodations. Sometimes the hotel/resort will include a continental breakfast with the plan.
Q) How early are flights and hotel rooms available?
A) Most airlines are typically available to book 11 months in advance, with the exception of Southwest Airlines which is roughly 7-8 months. Most hotels/resorts are available 11 months to a year in advance, but there are exceptions.
Q) What are some useful apps to have when traveling?
A) Google Maps, Google Translate, WhatsApp, and the Hotel/Resort app.
Q) What should I do if I run into a problem while on vacation?
A) If you are unable to have your problems resolved, call the "During Travel" help number on your travel documents and/or contact your travel advisor and make them aware of the problem.
Q) Should I purchase the local currency?
A) It depends on where you'll be traveling and what you intend to purchase. Some Caribbean destinations and parts of Mexico accept U.S. currency. If you are staying at an all-inclusive and don't plan to leave the property, you will not need the local currency. However, if you would like to venture into the local neighborhoods and purchase food or souvenirs, it is advised to pay with local currency. In other countries, they will only accept their local currency.