Lonely Planet | Passport

Ask not what you can do for your passport, but what your passport can do for you…

This September (National Passport Month) our event line-up ranges from on-campus activity to volunteer clean-up days to world music festivals. Click here to see if we're coming to a town near you.

Looking for inspiration? Watch Lonely Planet's video on National Passport Month and learn about what makes people want to bust out their passport and leave!

Get more inspiration from watching our Passport to Your World competition entries. Simply, review the shortlist films and you could win a fabulous Lonely Planet prize pack.

National Passport Month Update

We kicked off the month with a bang when H. Res. 554 - which declares every September as National Passport Month - passed unanimously in the House on September 5, 2007.

To learn more read Congresswoman Barbara Lee's comments on this exciting development.

We are currently working to introduce a Senate companion bill and have National Passport Month officially proclaimed this year.

You can help! Email, write or call the White House and request that the President follow the lead of Congress in issuing a proclamation naming September National Passport Month. Voice your support to your local Congressional Representatives as well.

You can also sign the petition.

Passports, passports - give me a break!

Seems like all anyone is talking about these days is how they need to get their passport. Or worse yet, can't get their passport! The delays caused by the new requirements under the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative have caused serious problems for many US travelers. While we hope things get better soon, passport agencies are working around the clock as they continue to process 1 million applications a month, you might consider taking up meditation.

Read our US Passports - Application Pending Travel Blog post and add your thoughts.

Why A National Passport Month?

We at Lonely Planet believe that international travel is one of the best ways to increase understanding, promote tolerance and help create one planet. Travel is a powerful source of personal enjoyment, enrichment and interest for both the traveler and the host. Travelers can play an important role as ambassadors of their country, helping act as agents of understanding, tolerance and mutual respect as they travel out into the world and connect with other people and cultures. Yet currently only 25% of Americans have passports! We ask you to join us in our effort to raise awareness of the importance of international travel and the positive impact it can have on individuals, our nation and the world.

Don't Just Take Our Word For It...

Testimonial from Dr. Israel (QuickTime 7 - download)
Testimonial from Lisa Loeb (QuickTime 7 - download)
Testimonial from Barbara Lee (QuickTime 7 - download)
Testimonial from Michael Franti (QuickTime 7 - download)

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"I think National Passport Month is a much-needed and timely effort. As someone who didn't own a passport or leave the country until he was 25, I know what a mind-expanding experience international travel can be."

Dave Eggers -- Author; Editor, McSweeney's; Founder, 826 Valencia