015 | Passport 101
015 | Passport 101
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Let’s talk about your passport. There are only two (2) documents that claim your citizenship in the US…your passport and your birth certificate. Most people don’t carry their birth certificate on them, but everyone carries their license…even though it is not considered a federal ID in a lot of states.
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Knowing this, I carry my passport with me almost daily. Some may think it is overkill, but this document states who I am and what country I am a citizen of. And that is a big deal.
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In the states, I typically carry my passport on me for identification as it is the ultimate form of identification…you never need a second piece. (Forget the license and the social security card or birth certificate.) Your passport is one and done. Plus, who knows when you are going to see a really great travel deal and just need to get to the airport to go?
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Overseas, I always carry my passport on me. Hotel safes are good for jewelry and extra money, but your passport is your everything when you are traveling. Hotels, tours, transportation, and even shops when you are making certain purchases ask for your passport.
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Beyond that, you should always have proper identification on your person. An accident or surprise always calls for identification and authorities are more likely to work faster with it. If you have a passport or a passport card, consider carrying it on you more often. (Please be aware passport cards don’t work for all countries. I have forgoed getting one…unless you live on a border state or travel to Canada a lot…it is of little value.)
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Forbes magazine recently posted statistics of passport holders. In 1990, less than 4% of the US had a passport. In 2007 due to the need of a passport for Mexico, Canada, and the Caribbean, the number of Americans with a passport jumped to 27%. In 2018, the percentage reached 42% in the US, but is still vastly lower than other developed countries around the world. If you don’t have a passport, consider getting one and exploring!
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For me, a passport is the end all be all in my world…and gives you access to the world. Where are we traveling next?!?
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With love,
Kelly
