As a traveler, you know how important it is to have the right documentation. A friend recently lost her wallet while on a family trip and didn’t realize it until she got to the airport to fly home. She realized she had lost her license as well as any form of ID. Which is why, even when flying domestically I always carry my passport card separate from my wallet and license.
How to Get a Passport Card & Why It’s a Good Idea to Keep It In Your Carry-on
In the United States, one of the most important documents you need to have when traveling outside the country is a passport. However, if you’re looking for a more convenient and lightweight option, you might consider getting a passport card. In this blog post, we’ll explore what a passport card is, how to get one, and why it’s a good idea to keep it in your carry-on.
What Exactly Is A Passport Card?
A passport card is a wallet-sized document that serves as a valid form of identification and proof of citizenship for US citizens when traveling to Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean by land or sea. It cannot be used for air travel. It looks similar to a driver’s license or state ID card, and it contains all the necessary information for border officials to verify your identity and citizenship
How To Get A Passport Card?
If you’re wondering how to get a passport card, the process is relatively straightforward. You can apply for a passport card at the same time you apply for a traditional passport book, or you can apply for a passport card separately. To apply for a passport card, you’ll need to complete the DS-11 form, provide proof of citizenship, and a current photo ID. The fee for a passport card is less than that of a traditional passport book, making it an affordable option for many travelers.
Benefits Of Carrying A Passport Card
Now that we’ve covered what a passport card is and how to get one, let’s explore why it’s a good idea to keep it in your carry-on when you travel. There are several reasons why a passport card can be a valuable travel document to have with you.
- Convenience: One of the biggest advantages of having a passport card is its convenience. It’s small enough to fit in your wallet or purse, so you can easily carry it with you wherever you go. This means that you don’t have to worry about carrying around a bulky passport book, which can be a hassle if you’re traveling light or don’t want to risk losing it. Be sure to keep your Passport Card secure at all times. Here are some tips.
- Easy border crossings: Another advantage of having a passport card is that it makes border crossings much easier. When traveling by land or sea to Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, or the Caribbean, you can use your passport card to quickly and easily cross the border. You won’t have to worry about waiting in long lines or filling out extensive paperwork, which can save you time and hassle.
- Backup identification: In addition to its use as a travel document, a passport card can also serve as a backup form of identification. If you lose your driver’s license or state ID card while traveling, you can use your passport card to prove your identity and citizenship. This can be especially helpful if you’re traveling in a foreign country where you may not be able to obtain a replacement ID quickly.
- Peace of mind: Finally, having a passport card with you can provide peace of mind when you’re traveling. Knowing that you have a valid form of identification and proof of citizenship with you can help ease any anxiety you may feel about traveling to a foreign country. Additionally, if your passport book is lost or stolen while traveling, having a passport card as a backup can make it easier to get a replacement.
In conclusion, a passport card can be a valuable travel document to have with you. It’s convenient, easy to use, and can serve as a backup form of identification if needed. If you’re planning to travel to Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, or the Caribbean by land or sea, consider getting a passport card. And, when you do, make sure to keep it in your carry-on so that you always have it with you. Safe travels!