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on February 19, 2021 So you want a vacation but you don’t have a passport – what do you do next? Well, after Googling ‘where can I travel with a passport?’ or ‘what countries can I travel to without a passport?’, you soon realise that while your options are limited, you can still travel outside of the USA with a passport. But where can you go? We’ve rounded up some of the best destinations US travelers can still enjoy without a passport, both closer to home and overseas.
1 – Hawaii
For any adventurer asking ‘where can I travel without a US passport?’, look no further than Hawaii. The USA’s fiftieth state and one of the smallest, comprised entirely of islands (137 of them to be exact), Hawaii has just about everything for just about everyone. With a tropical climate, powdery beaches, pounding surf, lush greenery and that famous Aloha spirit, it’s little wonder so many US travelers venture back to the islands time and time again.
Looking to dive a little deeper into Hawaii’s history and culture? Why not visit with an organised tour like Trafalgar? As well as enjoying all the must-see sights and activities (like the sound of ‘wave sliding’ in Waikiki, snorkelling with manta rays or seeing the bubbling volcanoes of the Big Island?), you’ll also get exclusive insight into the incredible multiculturalism of the islands. Whether visiting a local coffee producer to learn the farm to cup process, or picking veg and enjoying lunch at a sustainable farm, visiting Hawaii on a guided tour gives you insight into a different side of the islands.
2 – Puerto Rico
As a US administered territory, Puerto Rico is an option for those asking ‘where can I travel without a passport?’. One of only two destinations in the Caribbean that does not require US citizens to carry a passport, visitors here can look forward to balmy temperatures, beautiful beaches and adventurous activities (rainforest ziplining, anyone?). San Juan is one of the most popular places to stay, with Old San Juan and the UNESCO listed Castillo San Felipe del Morro both highlights.
3 – USA National Parks
If you’re looking for a vacation that allows you to experience the handiwork of mother nature at her finest, look no further than any of the USA’s 62 national parks. To answer your question ‘where can I travel to without a passport?’, the answer is – in your own backyard! Canyons, cascading waterfalls, wildlife, Martian-esque landscapes and soaring spires are just the start of what’s on offer in the USA’s National Parks, all of which can be explored with walking trails to suit every ability. Arches National Park, Grand Canyon National Park, Yellowstone, Zion National Park and Bryce Canyon are just some of the big names, but the smaller parks are just as deserving of praise.
Want to explore the best without having to spend hours researching the best hiking trails, park entry fees, the best times to go and everything in between? Book a guided tour. Trafalgar offer a number of USA National Park tours and organise all the annoying details for you, so all you need to do is focus on having an incredible vacation.
4 – US Virgin Islands
When it comes to the question ‘what countries can I travel to without a US passport?’, one option is the US Virgin Islands. Like Puerto Rico, these Caribbean islands are US administered territories, meaning visitors can travel to St. Thomas, St. John and St. Croix passport free! But which one to visit first? Each has their own personality and unique style, but for the best snorkelling and diving it has to be St. John. St. Thomas takes the shopping crown, while St. Croix is a hotspot for foodies. Whichever island you choose, you won’t be disappointed by the soft beaches and tropical temperatures that make the islands the perfect escape for anyone Googling ‘where can I travel without a passport?’.
5 – San Diego, California
Desperate for a beach escape but don’t want to leave the US? Look no further than sunny San Diego. With over 70 miles of coastline and surf breaks stretching from a city that oozes laid back Californian charm, it’s not hard to see the appeal. But which beach to visit? La Jolla Cove is a popular choice, not least for the resident seals and birds who regularly frequent the surrounding rocks (and for the safe swimming). Pacific Beach is another good option, with the path above the beach lined with pretty shops and restaurants.
For the non-beach goers, there’s plenty in the city to keep you occupied. Visit the historic Gaslamp Quarter, Old Town, Little Italy or Balboa Park, or head to the world-famous San Diego Zoo where you’ll have the chance to see over 800 different animal species. Suddenly, the answer to the question ‘where can I travel to without a passport?’ just got a whole lot clearer…
