There are tons of reasons you should consider a cruise the next time you plan a vacation. Traveling by sea gives you the ability to see several countries during the same trip, and is also more affordable because you don't need to pay for a hotel and airfare to each place.

However, many people want to go on a cruise but do not necessarily want to get a passport. Getting a passport is a good idea because it is good for ten years, and if you're going to travel internationally in the future, you already have it.

However, a lot of people who are not planning on traveling out of the country might not want to spend the extra money to purchase their passport. The fees for obtaining a passport depending on the type you get and how quickly you need it.

It also takes around six to eight weeks. So, if you want to take a last-minute cruise or you do not want to worry about having a passport, it is good to know your options. It is important to note, though, that there are still some identification requirements you need to follow.

Closed-Loop Cruises Typically Do Not Require A Passport

You do not need a passport for most closed-loop cruises based in the United States. These are the trips that leave out of and return to the same port. However, if you are a U.S. citizen and your cruise is out of another country, you will need a passport to fly to that country.

Many of the popular U.S. ports for closed-loop cruises include Port of Galveston, Port of Everglades, Port of Seattle, Port of Tampa Bay, Port of Boston, Port of Los Angeles, and Port of New Orleans.

Most of the major cruise lines, including Disney, Carnival, Princess, Royal Carribean, and Celebrity all offer closed-loop options. Several smaller lines also offer these options.

Take a Cruise to Mexico

You can cruise to several locations in Mexico without a passport. The ability to visit Mexico opens your cruise options. Many itineraries include several ports in the Carribean and Mexico.

Traveling on one of these trips without a passport is fine as long as you return to the same U.S. port you embarked from at the beginning of your trip. Plus, these trips are a great way to plan a getaway on shorter notice, and you can start relaxing as soon as you get on the ship because there are plenty of things to do at any time of the day or night.

While in Mexico, you can enjoy the scenic beaches, eat authentic Mexican cuisine, purchase things at local markets, and enjoy many excursions.

Cruise To Hawaii Without A Passport

An excellent cruise destination if you want to experience a tropical location is Hawaii. There are a ton of things to do once you arrive, too. You can visit waterfalls, surf, zip line, hang glide, go fishing, or explore the breathtaking scenery.

Many people dream of visiting Hawaii and taking a cruise this one of the more affordable ways to have this experience. The great part about cruising is that you can explore several of the islands without having to pay for hotels and airfare to each location.

You Can Cruise To Several Carribean Islands Without A Passport

If you have always wanted to visit the Carribean, but you do not have a passport, you are in luck. You can go to many Carribean islands on a closed-loop cruise with an enhanced driver's license, photo identification, and a certified copy of your birth certificate.

An enhanced driver's license makes it easy for you to enter the United States, and it gives you the ability to drive. You also need this form of ID if you want to fly domestically, so it is a worthwhile investment. You can obtain one from your local Department of Motor Vehicles. However, it does take around three weeks.

Related: These Carribean Islands Are Often Crowded...Because They're Cruise Ports

Experience An Alaskan Cruise

While you might not think of Alaska when you consider taking a cruise, an Alaskan cruises are a really interesting experience. Take in beautiful views while you relax on the ship, or take in the incredible wildlife found that is native to the area.

When you book your Alaskan cruise, you should consider selecting a room with a balcony so you can look at the glaciers as the ship passes them. Also, be sure that you book a closed-loop option.

Port of Seattle is a popular location to embark from, and you will not need a passport as long as your ship returns to the same U.S. port. If you take an Alaskan cruise that leaves from the United States and disembarks in Canada, you might have trouble getting back into the country without a passport.

Next: 15 Intense Rules Passengers Have To Follow Aboard A Carnival Cruise