Chapter 1: The Urgency of Securing Your Passport

Today marks Day 33 of our ongoing discussion. While I have no intention of leaving my home, it's wise to be prepared for unexpected events. The world can change rapidly, and I want to be ready in case a major crisis arises.

Recently, I stumbled upon some alarming news.

US passport fees are set to increase significantly.

Editor's Note: Subscribe to Unlocking the World, CNN Travel's weekly newsletter for updates on travel destinations reopening.

As it stands, the federal government plans to hike the cost by $20. This means I’ll be shelling out approximately $150 once I account for photo expenses. I attempted to take my own passport photos, but meeting the requirements was more complicated than anticipated. Today, we’re heading to a CVS pharmacy to get it sorted once and for all.

I already possess an old passport, but it’s expired and, ironically, I never utilized it! I had previously decided against traveling for environmental reasons; the carbon footprint associated with travel is immense. Unless one opts for walking or cycling, vacations often come at the expense of future generations.

That said, I find myself less inclined to dream about far-off destinations. People are fundamentally the same everywhere, and unfortunately, many don’t hold favorable views of Americans anymore.

The internet offers a window to the world. If I crave exotic cuisine, I can prepare it at home. The sun shines the same regardless of where you bask in its rays. While I appreciate beautiful beaches and the water, my enthusiasm for swimming has waned. Thankfully, Michigan provides ample opportunities for both relaxation and recreation. Ultimately, I prioritize a good night's sleep at the end of the day—something I know I won't achieve while adjusting to unfamiliar hotel beds.

Travel is no longer a priority for me; I actively seek to avoid it.

However...

The world is becoming increasingly chaotic.

I can't confidently assert that what I see from my window today will remain unchanged in a decade. A passport is valid for ten years, and who knows what the future holds?

Michigan has countless admirable attributes, as does America.

Yet...

Our leaders, whether federal, state, or local, seem paralyzed by indecision. With misinformation clouding judgment, the very foundations of our democracy could be at risk if we do not take action. Should civil unrest escalate, we may find ourselves needing to flee. The only viable options could be heading north to Canada or crossing an ocean.

The day may arrive when many of us become refugees. Climate change is already rendering various coastlines uninhabitable, including certain areas around the Great Lakes.

Mother Nature is poised to unleash forces not seen for millennia. Entire states could transform into unlivable swamps, searing deserts, or areas so ravaged by storms that rebuilding becomes economically unfeasible. As we deepen our understanding of climate change, it becomes clear that no one will emerge unscathed.

I hope Michigan remains one of the last havens, but it might also become a place that no longer sustains life due to potential civil strife.

We must be prepared to leave.

Regardless of whether we meet the December 27th price deadline, we're prioritizing obtaining our passports. I suspect this won't be the last time the government raises fees for mobility.

CONSPIRACY ALERT!

I base my thoughts on historical patterns, and thus, I present this as an educated forecast. History suggests that authoritarian regimes tend to dissuade citizens from leaving. Increasing the cost of exiting a country complicates matters for those who might need to escape. The timing of the passport fee hike raises eyebrows, in my opinion. I find it hard to believe that the government genuinely requires extra funds for processing passports. They could simply extend processing times if resources were tight; after all, government efficiency is not typically expected.

I suspect this is a strategy to keep citizens more confined. Perhaps it’s a response to the excessive travel during the pandemic, but I doubt it. This could simply be a way to limit our freedom of movement. An economy cannot thrive for the elite if workers have fled.

Even if my conspiracy theory is unfounded, the outcome remains unchanged. An additional $20 could deter many Americans from the freedom to travel.

Mobility in America is becoming a costly privilege. Rights increasingly depend on financial means; leaving the country is contingent upon the ability to pay the government.

Act swiftly to secure your passport.

Chapter 2: Preparing for Potential Crisis

This video outlines the process of applying for a US passport efficiently, ensuring you're ready for any travel needs that may arise.

In this video, learn how to navigate the steps necessary to apply for a Canadian passport in 2024. Being prepared is essential for potential emergencies.

Desperate individuals fleeing to our borders without documentation are often treated harshly in America. How do you think the global community will respond to desperate Americans trying to escape?

Don't wait until it's too late.

Be prepared.

Have a plan in place for any eventuality.