New Passport Regulations Give Reason to Go Shopping

A passport is a document, issued by a national government for the purpose of international travel, which certifies the identity and nationality of its holder. The document includes information such as name, date of birth, sex, and place of birth. Due to increased security measures, new passport requirements were implemented for the United States. The Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI), requires all citizens of the United States, Canada, Mexico, and Bermuda to have a passport or other accepted document that establishes the bearer’s identity and nationality to enter or depart the United States from within the Western Hemisphere*. This requirement applies to all methods of travel; air, land or sea. Before this new regulation was in place, American travelers were simply required to present a drivers license or a birth certificate to cross North American borders.

Although the US Government does not provide an official number, an estimated 20% of Americans possess a passport. In 2008 over 16 million passports were issued to American citizens.* Authorities expect the passport will help with a smoother transition through customs and enhance border security.

Along with a required passport comes many opportunities to accessorize; mainly, a passport cover. Why a passport cover you may ask? Some choose to store their passports in an inconspicuous envelope, or a plastic baggie. While these are easy and inexpensive ways to store your passport, a bright color or textured material passport cover will help you locate it easily when you need it. They are available in a variety of colors and styles designed to suit your travel needs. Some are much larger than the passport, with a zipper closure and act as a binder to store maps, tickets, notes and your passport. Others are just a bit bigger than the actual passport and look like a small folder with multiple pockets. The pockets will help you keep all of your documents, cards and tickets together rather than storing them in different places.

Also known as a passport holder, or passport case, this unique accessory is available in a wide variety of materials, colors and textures, a passport cover is a great way to help you stay organized and locate important documents quickly. The passport cover is available at most major department stores and boutiques. So get yours today and travel in style!

*Department of Homeland Security website
http://www.dhs.gov/xprevprot/programs/gc_1200693579776.shtm

*US Department of State website
http://www.travel.state.gov/passport/services/stats/stats_890.html

More About Silverhooks:

Silverhooks was created in an effort to provide women with accessories that will make their everyday lives more convenient, safer, and healthier. As the co-founder of SilverHooks, a women's purse accessory company, it is my goal to provide women with the most stylish and functional cases, purse hooks, and other accessories that fit into a woman's handbag and make life a little easier. As we diversify our line of products, I invite you to contribute suggestions, pose questions and provide input that will benefit our customer, the modern woman.