Merit Badge Help – Passports

With summer around the corner, many of us are looking forward to a vacation. If you have an upcoming vacation trip planned, check out the travel merit badge.  Many of the requirements, especially at the lower levels, can be incorporated into your existing plans.

Requirement #16 looks are requirements for international travel. The most important item you need when traveling abroad is a passport.  Passports provide proof of citizenship.  There are two types of passports – Passport books and Passport cards. Passport cards are significantly cheaper, but only allow you access by boat or land travel into limited countries.  A passport book, is the most widely accepted document.  To learn more about obtaining a passport visit the US Department of State Travel website (here).

In addition to a passport, some countries have health restrictions. Many countries have recommended and/or required vaccines before you can enter their country.  The  Yellow fever vaccination, for example, is required to enter some South African and South American countries. To see a list of vaccines needed visit the CDC website (here).

NOTE: The requirements have been simplified here. Please be sure to read the full text in the American Heritage Girl Handbook to make sure you fully understand the requirements.

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