Passports are in higher demand than ever, according to the Department of State, since growing numbers of Americans are applying for their documents to make trips overseas.

Record numbers of passports were issued in both March and April, thanks in part to a new processing facility in Hot Springs, Arkansas, which was inaugurated on March 27th. Once the plant reaches full capacity, it will be able to produce over ten million passports each year.

Updated travel legislation is beginning to highlight the scale of the American predilection for voyages overseas. In the 2007 fiscal year, the Department of State produced 8.6 million new passports, which is a third more than during 2006 and the highest figure for four years.

As Americans continue to slake their thirst for travel, officials recommend applying for new documents at least 12 weeks in advance.

Planning is also essential when considering your safety and that of your family: travel insurance, for instance, is a must when heading overseas.

Simple mistakes delay a large number of passport applications, according to the Department of State. Thirteen per cent neglect to sign their request forms, forget to include a check, write a check for the wrong amount, or submit an invalid photo.

Contributed by J.Bevan