Whether you are traveling to Europe for the first time or have finally decided to take that cruise to the Caribbean, as an American citizen, it’s important that you get your passport as soon as possible. While it is possible to travel to some U.S. territories and even bordering countries without a passport, it will definitely save you some unnecessary hassle and will open up new opportunities for you if you go ahead and purchase a U.S. Passport.

The Difference Between a U.S. Passport Book and Card

The U.S. Passport Book is the best option if you are planning on doing a lot of traveling. It enables U.S. citizens to travel internationally by air, sea, or land. While the Card is certainly less-expensive, according to Bureau of Consular Affairs, it is only “valid when entering the United States from Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean and Bermuda at land border crossings or sea ports-of-entry,” thus limiting your destinations.

Where to Get a U.S. Passport

If you are applying for your first U.S. Passport, you will need to apply in person at an Acceptance Facility, such as a post office or county clerk, or a Passport Agency, which is required if trying to get a passport quickly.