I often get asked whether a client should get a passport book or a passport card when getting identity documents ordered for their upcoming vacation. While both options allow for international travel, there are big differences between the two that you need to be aware of before applying for one. Unless you live near a border to Canada or Mexico and are going to be going back and forth between either nation often, a passport card is not a good value for you simply based on the limitations of use for the card as compared to the book.
What’s the difference between a passport book and a passport card?
First, let’s start with the basics. A U.S. passport book is a small, blue booklet that is typically used for international travel via air, sea, or land. So basically, you use your U.S. passport book anytime you fly, drive or cruise out of, or in to the United States of America. A U.S. passport card, on the other hand, is a wallet-sized card that can only be used for land (bus, car or train) and sea travel to Mexico, Canada, Bermuda, and the Caribbean. While both documents serve as proof of your U.S. citizenship and identity, the scope of their use is different.
What makes a passport book special?
When it comes to air travel, a U.S. passport book is a must-have item. All international flights require passengers to present a valid passport book at check-in, no matter where you are going. That’s because your passport book contains detailed information about your identity and citizenship, including biometric data such as fingerprints and your photo. Also passport books can include visa stamps and entry/exit dates, making it an essential document for frequent travelers.
When can I use a passport card?
You cannot use a passport card for air travel. While a passport card can be used for land (train, car or bus) and sea (boat or ship) travel to certain countries, it cannot be used for entry to all nations, nor can it be used on international flights, only on domestic flights. So if you’re planning on traveling overseas via air, a passport book is absolutely necessary. Keep in mind, if you’re on a cruise, and an unexpected emergency happens requiring you to FLY home in the middle of the trip, you will be stuck if you are traveling with just a passport card or your birth certificate because you MUST have a passport book for all international air travel.
When can I use a passport book?
A passport book can also be used for air, land and sea travel to all countries, including Mexico, Canada, and the Caribbean, it’s not just valid for air travel only. This means that if you’re planning on crossing the U.S. border via train, car or boat, you can use a passport book to do so. Also, remember a passport book is required for any international cruise that does not start or end in the same U.S. port.
Who should get passport cards?
A passport card can be very useful if you live in a border city and frequently travel to Mexico or Canada via land. If you cross the US border frequently for work, school, or leisure, a passport card is a convenient and affordable option because it is much easier to carry with you than a passport book. Don’t forget, your passport card will not be accepted for air travel, so if you plan on traveling overseas by plane, you’ll need to have a passport book as well.
Are they the same cost?
Another important difference between a passport book and a passport card is the cost. While a passport book is more expensive than a passport card, a passport book has a lot more functionality and can be used for all forms of international travel. If you plan on traveling frequently, it’s worth investing in a passport book so that you have the flexibility to travel via air, sea, or land without any restrictions.
What’s the verdict? What should I get?
A U.S. passport book is a more useful and versatile option for international travel than a U.S. passport card. While a passport card is a convenient option for those who live near a border and frequently travel between countries via land, a passport book is required for air travel and offers more flexibility for all forms of international travel. If you plan to get a passport card solely for a cruise, it’s not a wise use of your money based on the limitation for when and how it can be used to return home.
Do yourself a favor and budget in the cost of a passport book when you are factoring in costs associated with your vacation. Not only will the passport book last twice as long, but you will have much more flexibility with how you can travel. Plus you will be fully covered in the event of an emergency requiring you to fly home unexpectedly!
Itching to go somewhere fun on vacation? I’d love to help you out! Contact me today and lets get planning! Whether it’s an international destination such as a cruise or all inclusive resort, or somewhere domestic like Walt Disney World or Universal, I’d be happy to help you plan your next family vacation.
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