Key Takeaways
- U.S. citizens do not need a passport to travel from the mainland U.S. to any inhabited U.S. territory.
- A government-issued REAL ID is required for domestic flights.
- Important: While a passport isn't required, having a valid one is highly recommended. It provides flexibility in case of flight diversions, emergency rerouting, or international travel.
- REAL ID enforcement began May 7, 2025, for air travel within the U.S.
As an American, you have the luxury of traveling to some of the most beautiful, off-the-beaten-path destinations-without needing a passport or visa. I'm talking about the inhabited U.S. territories: American Samoa, the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI), the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, and Puerto Rico.
These tropical destinations are perfect getaways, offering stunning beaches, island culture, and rich history.
Whether you're planning a quick weekend escape or a longer break from the mainland, these U.S. territories have plenty to explore and enjoy.
Please note: While a passport isn't required for travel from the mainland US, it is highly recommended to bring one. Flights can sometimes be diverted or rerouted unexpectedly, and having a valid passport ensures you have the flexibility to continue your journey or handle emergencies without a hitch.
American Samoa
Why Visit:
American Samoa is a tropical paradise featuring lush rainforests, flourishing coral reefs, and famed Polynesian culture and cuisine, such as the popular dish palusami.
Located in the South Pacific Ocean, American Samoa is about 2,500 miles southwest of Hawaii, which serves as the closest major U.S. hub.
Travelers come here for hiking, exploring traditional villages, and eco-tourism adventures in one of the most remote U.S. territories.
Travel Documents:
U.S. citizens do not need a passport to travel from the mainland. A government-issued REAL ID is sufficient for domestic flights. Learn more about U.S. passport requirements if you're considering international extensions.
Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI)
Why Visit:
The CNMI offers pristine sandy beaches, beautiful coral reefs teeming with ocean life, and historic World War II sites, like the underwater Maritime Heritage Trail.
Located in the North Pacific Ocean, CNMI is approximately 3,300 miles west-southwest of Hawaii and about 140 miles north of Guam.
Visitors enjoy scuba diving, snorkeling, and attending local festivals like the Flame Tree Arts Festival: a celebration of Chamorro and Carolinian culture through dance, music, and art.
Travel Documents:
No passport is required for U.S. citizens traveling from the mainland. A government-issued REAL ID will get you through security. Check out our guide on REAL ID vs passport for domestic flights.
Guam
Why Visit:
Guam, the southernmost island in the Mariana Islands, is famous for beautiful white beaches, Chamorro culture and cuisine (Spanish, Mexican, Filipino, and American influences), and World War II history.
Located in the North Pacific Ocean, Guam is just under 4,000 miles from Hawaii but roughly 8,000 miles from the U.S. mainland, making it one of the most remote U.S. territories.
Tourists in Guam can enjoy duty-free shopping, scuba diving, snorkeling, and visit historic sites, like the stone structures at Pågat and the pictographs at Gadao's Cave, in this gorgeous tropical destination.
Travel Documents
U.S. citizens do not need a passport from the mainland. Bring a government-issued REAL ID for domestic flights. For cruises or international connections, see our passport travel tips.
Puerto Rico
Why Visit:
Puerto Rico is a top Caribbean destination with tropical beaches, lush El Yunque rainforest, and a unique identity expressed through its food, music, art, and festivals. Puerto Rico is a popular destination for travelers due in large part to its warm, celebratory, family-friendly vibe.
Located in the Caribbean Sea, Puerto Rico is roughly 1,150 miles southeast of the coast of Florida, which serves as the closest major U.S. hub. Puerto Rico is also the closest U.S. territory to the mainland U.S.
Families, cruise-goers, and weekend travelers alike flock to Puerto Rico for the warm and sunny climate, the beautiful beaches, and the fun and inviting culture.
Travel Documents
No passport is required for U.S. citizens traveling from the mainland. A government-issued REAL ID is sufficient for domestic flights. For more details, read our post on traveling to Puerto Rico without a passport.
U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI)
Why Visit:
The USVI are known for stunning beaches, abundant sea life, prime snorkeling and scuba diving sites, historic towns on St. Thomas and St. Croix, and St. John's beautiful national park.
Located in the Caribbean Sea, the USVI are about 1,100 miles southeast of Florida, with the next closest major landmass being Puerto Rico, which is situated roughly 40-50 miles west of the USVI.
Cruise visitors and tropical vacationers alike love the islands' gorgeous scenery, with breathtaking tropical views everywhere you look, and the islands' Afro-Caribbean culture with European and indigenous influences.
- On St. Thomas, travelers can enjoy duty-free shopping, explore the historic capital of Charlotte Amalie, and visit Coral World Marine Park-just a few of the many attractions that make this island so appealing.
- St. Croix is the ideal destination for adventure; snorkeling at Buck Island Reef, hiking to Point Udall, and trekking through the lush St. George Village Botanical Garden.
- St John is best known as home to the Virgin Islands National Park, where visitors can snorkel at Trunk Bay and enjoy sailing, kayaking, and hiking through St. John's beautiful, protected, and preserved landscape.
Travel Documents
U.S. citizens do not need a passport when traveling from the mainland. A government-issued REAL ID will get you through security. For cruise-goers, check our cruise FAQs for U.S. travelers.
| Territory | Location | Passport Required? | ID Required |
|---|---|---|---|
| American Samoa | South Pacific Ocean | No | Gov't-issued REAL ID |
| CNMI | North Pacific Ocean | No | Gov't-issued REAL ID |
| Guam | North Pacific Ocean | No | Gov't-issued REAL ID |
| Puerto Rico | Caribbean Sea | No | Gov't-issued REAL ID |
| U.S. Virgin Islands | Caribbean Sea | No | Gov't-issued REAL ID |
Traveling to any inhabited U.S. territory is considered domestic travel for American citizens, so a government-issued REAL ID is all you technically need. But remember: having a valid passport is a smart precaution. Flights can sometimes be diverted or rerouted, and a passport ensures you have the flexibility to handle unexpected changes or continue your trip without stress.
Make sure your REAL ID or passport is current, plan ahead, and get ready to enjoy the beaches, culture, and adventures that these tropical U.S. territories have to offer. With a little preparation, your getaway can be as smooth and worry-free as it is unforgettable.
Top 5 Questions About Expedited Passport Couriers
2. What exactly does a passport expediter do?
3. Are passport expediting services legitimate?
4. How can I identify a reliable passport expeditor?
5. Is expedited passport service worth it?
Get answers to these questions and more in our Ultimate U.S. Traveler's Guide to Passport Expediters.
You can also visit our library of articles about passport expediting.
