The summer is winding down. While everyone is reliving one last getaway or saying goodbyes from the family reunion, it’s time to prepare yourself and make plans for next year.

Planning Ahead

It’s not too far-fetched to start planning. The first step to take, if you haven’t already, is to apply/renew your passport. Recently my 4 children had their passport appointment, and I couldn’t think of a better investment to protect my family. You may be thinking it’s a waste, but here are benefits to investing in documentation.

Federal Identification

Everyone doesn’t have identification and let’s face it, every state protocol is different when it comes to what needs to be on your driver’s license. With a passport you have a nationwide identifier that will be seen as the same no matter where you are in the world.

International Travel

Of course, this is your number one answer to why you need your passport. You cannot travel to other countries without one unless you leave by cruise. You can utilize your birth certificate for cruises, but if you miss that boat call, it’s not pretty on the procedures to make it back to the states without any federal identification. Be safe with all traveling abroad with a passport.

Affordable

Yes, you heard me right. A passport is valid for adults for 10 years! I think that’s around $13 per year you invest in getting your passport stamped. You don’t need a trip planned to apply. Have it on standby for those opportunities to enjoy!

Protection

When traveling internationally your passport can be your protection you need with any US Embassy. When traveling abroad I always check in with the embassy to let them know of my travels for emergency reasons. You never can be too safe when in unfamiliar territory.

Coming into the Fall season is a great time to apply for your passport. Check to make sure you pass all reasons not to be denied (child support payments and certain felonies can be checked). You can find more information about qualifications on travel.state.gov. It takes about 6-8 weeks to receive it so give yourself time for planning for your international holiday!

For more on passports as well as visas, contact me on Instagram @mannieru