But now, I simply want to answer the question of "should I purchase a passport?" This is a general question that I receive from time to time and not necessarily tied to any particular non-US destination.
The short answer is YES! If you are a US citizen and are even remotely pondering the idea of traveling someday, now would be a great time to get your passport. Here are some reasons why I say that:
1) They are good for 10 years (if you are 16 yrs of age or older)
2) Pay now so you don't pay more later. Passport prices have kept steadily increasing over the past several years. Invest in one now at today's price and don't worry about the increase in costs for the next 10 years
3) Be ready to go! Having a passport in hand will allow you to take advantage of last minute travel deals for destinations outside the US
4) Alternate form of identification. Lose your driver's license? Having a passport can come in handy when your other form of identification is either lost of stolen
5) Avoid paying last minute expediting fees. This is tied to the last minute travel advantage. Sometimes a passport can still be obtained in time for the trip, but expediting fees may have to be paid which can add significant costs to the process
There are my top 5 reasons why you should just go ahead and get your passport now, even if you do not have an international trip planned in the near future. Agree with them? Disagree?
