Can You Book an International Flight without a Passport Number?

Planning an overseas vacation or business trip and want to book an international flight, but don't have a passport, or it's currently being renewed? Can you still reserve a ticket? The answer is YES! You just need to keep a few important points in mind.

In this article, we’ll thoroughly explain how to book an international flight without a passport and the key points to keep in mind. Let’s review the international flight booking process together so you can travel abroad with confidence.

How to Book an International Flight without a Passport?

You can still book international flight tickets even if you don’t have a passport yet or are renewing one that has expired. On Trip.com, simply enter your last name, the gender shown on your ID, your date of birth, and your nationality on the international booking page to reserve your ticket.

Important Note: for flight + hotel tours, you’ll need to provide your passport number in advance. Depending on the airline, a passport number may be required as well, so be sure to check ahead of time.

How to Check Passport Requirements?

While some articles mention “depending on the airline,” travelers need clear guidance on how to verify airline-specific rules. Here’s how to navigate it:

• Check the airline website – Look for sections like “Travel Documents,” “Booking Requirements,” or “International Travel.”
• Contact customer service – Call or email the airline to confirm if you can book without a passport and which temporary IDs might be accepted.
• Ask about exceptions – Certain airlines may allow other government-issued IDs or emergency travel documents temporarily.
• Document your confirmation – Keep emails or notes confirming what IDs are acceptable to avoid issues at check-in.

What to Know When Booking an International Flight without a Passport?

You can book international flights without a passport, but there are some important things to watch out for. If you overlook them, you could end up wasting the ticket you went to the trouble of reserving, so be sure to check everything carefully.

Make sure the spelling of the name matches exactly!

Make sure the spelling of your name on your passport—whether you’re currently applying for one or planning to—matches exactly the spelling used when booking international flights.

For security reasons, if the name on your passport and the name on your reservation aren’t identical, you won’t be able to board the plane. Even a single character off is not acceptable, so please double-check that your name matches perfectly when you book.

Pay extra attention if your last name is changing!

If you’re changing your last name—for example, after getting married—and renewing your passport, pay extra attention. If you book a flight while your passport application reflecting the name change is in progress, make sure you enter your new last name when you book. If you accidentally enter your previous last name and don’t realize it until boarding, you may be denied boarding on the day of travel.

Don’t Have a Passport Yet? Apply Immediately after Booking Your Flight

Applying for your passport immediately after booking

Even if you book an international flight without a passport, you’ll need to apply for one as soon as possible to avoid last-minute stress. Airlines require valid passport details before ticket issuance or check-in, so starting the application early ensures you have enough time for processing, potential delays, and any additional documentation.

For detailed information on new passport applications and renewals, please visit the the Department of State official website.

Planning Travel While Your Passport Is Pending

Travelers often overlook that visa applications require a valid passport. If your passport is still being processed, you may face delays or be unable to apply for necessary visas, potentially affecting your travel plans.

How to address this issue:

• Apply for your passport immediately after booking your flight to allow sufficient time for visa processing.
• Check visa requirements early for your destination country, including processing times and documentation needed.
• Consider expedited passport services if your travel date is near.
• Communicate with embassies or consulates about timelines and possible alternatives if your passport isn’t ready.
• Plan for contingency by choosing flexible flights in case your visa application is delayed.

Can You Safely Book an International Flight without a Passport?

Booking an international flight without a passport is possible, but it carries risks travelers should consider:

• Passport delays or denial – Processing can be slow, and incomplete applications may be rejected.
• Flight change or cancellation fees – Non-refundable or restricted tickets can result in financial loss if travel dates need to change.
• Visa issues – Without a passport, you cannot apply for visas or entry permits, which may prevent travel.

How to reduce risks?

• Apply for your passport immediately after booking.
• Choose flexible or refundable ticket options.
• Consider travel insurance that covers passport-related delays.
• Keep copies of all travel documents and monitor passport application status.
• Adjust travel plans early if processing issues arise to minimize costs.

Book Popular International Flight Routes from the U.S.

Travelers from the U.S. frequently head to some of Asia’s most exciting destinations, making routes to Shanghai, Bangkok, Tokyo, Seoul, Osaka, and Bali especially popular year-round. These cities offer a mix of culture, food, beaches, and vibrant city life, attracting both leisure and business travelers. With multiple airlines servicing these routes daily, flying from major U.S. hubs to Asia has never been more convenient.