Travel Documents Checklist

Not all documents are essential for travel. Some documents, like Nexus Cards, are optional programs designed to get you through security, customs and immigration quickly. Whereas other documents, such as travel visas and passports, are essential if you're travelling to a country that requires you to have one.

Essential Travel Documents

For all international flights, you'll need a valid passport. For domestic flights within your country, you can travel with a government-issued ID (such as a driver's licence). Some airlines will allow you to bring two pieces of non-photo identification that match the name and date of birth on your reservation whereas others will request that you bring a photo ID with the name and date of birth matching your reservation.

Other Important Documents

Depending on your destination, you may need additional documentation to travel, such as a visa. These are specific entry permits that are issued by certain countries. We recommend researching visa requirements for the country you're visiting well in advance of your trip.

Optional Documents

Documents like a passport card or Global Entry can speed up your travel process. These are optional programs that offer many benefits like quicker security and customs clearance.

Identification Requirements

A passport isn't generally required for domestic flights, however, you will need to provide some form of government-issued identification. This can include:

• Passport (preferably valid but expired passports may be accepted)
• Driver's licence
• National ID card
• Military ID
• State-issued ID card
• Birth certificate (often with a photo ID)
• Social security card (often with a photo ID)

If you're flying domestically in a different country to your own, ensure you have your passport with you at all times, even if it isn't required for your domestic flight.

Like international flights, you will want to consider other travel documents like travel insurance policies, vaccination certificates and medical prescriptions. You should also consider applying for an international driving licence if you're doing a fly-drive trip (flying domestically and then driving part of the journey).