Keep Your Passport Safe And Handy At Airports

Carrying your passport at the airport can be a stressful experience, especially if you're travelling alone for the first time. While it's natural to worry about losing your passport or having it stolen, there are several precautions you can take to ensure this doesn't happen.

Firstly, it's important to note that you should always keep your passport on your person. While it might be tempting to put it in your carry-on luggage, this could be a mistake if your bag is gate-checked and ends up in the cargo hold of the plane. Instead, keep your passport in a secure inner pocket of your clothing, or use a money belt, neck pouch or crossbody bag. These options ensure that your passport is always with you and reduce the risk of pickpocketing.

Additionally, making photocopies of your passport and storing digital copies can provide peace of mind. In the unfortunate event that you do lose your passport, having copies will make the process of getting a replacement easier. It's also a good idea to use a passport cover to protect against physical damage and, if possible, invest in a passport holder with RFID-blocking technology to prevent digital identity theft.

Lastly, stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded or unfamiliar areas known for pickpocketing. Regularly check that your passport is still with you, and if you're travelling as a group, ensure that each person is responsible for their own passport.

Passport safety at security checkpoints

Before you get to the airport

Make sure you have a secure bag or pouch for your passport. This could be a money belt, a neck pouch, a crossbody bag, or a secure pocket in your clothing. You can also buy passport wallets with RFID protection to prevent digital identity theft. Keep your passport on your person at all times, either in your bag or pouch, or in a secure pocket. Avoid keeping your passport in your pocket, a random shoulder bag, or your carry-on luggage.

At the security checkpoint

Follow the posted instructions at the security checkpoint. You may be asked to place your passport in a bin to be scanned, or you may be allowed to hold onto it and walk through with it. If you are asked to put your passport in a bin, place it under your jacket or backpack to reduce the risk of someone taking it. Keep an eye on your belongings as they go through the scanner, and collect them as soon as you can on the other side.

After you've passed through security

Once you've passed through security, you can put your passport away until you reach your destination. If you're wearing a neck pouch, you can tuck it inside your shirt. If you've kept your passport in your hand, make putting it away part of a bathroom break.

Carrying your passport on your person

When travelling, it is important to keep your passport safe at all times. Losing your passport can be a nightmare, especially if you are on a short trip or travelling for business. It is also costly and time-consuming to replace a passport while overseas. Here are some tips for carrying your passport on your person:

• Use a passport holder or cover: A passport holder will protect your passport from damage and digital identity theft. You can buy passport holders that go around your neck, your waist, or that you can put in your pocket or bag. If you are concerned about digital identity theft, you can buy passport holders with RFID-blocking technology. These prevent someone from using a device to read the information on your passport without your knowledge. The U.S. Department of State recommends using an RFID-blocking passport holder or sleeve.
• Keep your passport in a secure bag or pouch: Keep your passport in a bag or pouch that also carries other essential items, such as your wallet. Good options include a fanny pack, a crossbody bag, or a messenger bag. That way, you will never forget to pick them up.
• Be aware of your surroundings: Always pay attention to what is going on around you, especially in public places like train stations or airports. Never openly display your passport, even when standing in the immigration line. Always conceal your passport as best you can.
• Make copies of your passport: Keep photocopies of your passport with you when you travel, and store digital copies securely on a cloud service or your phone. That way, if your passport is lost or stolen, you will have a backup. You should also leave a copy of your passport at home with a trusted friend or family member.
• Keep your passport with you at all times: It might be tempting to leave your passport in your hotel room while you go out for the day, but the safest place for it is almost always on your person. If you do choose to leave it, make sure it is in a safe or secure storage.
• Don't put your passport in your checked luggage: If you put your passport in your checked luggage and that luggage is then lost or delayed, you will have no way of proving your identity at the border. Keep your passport in your hand luggage at all times.

Using a passport cover

Passport covers are typically made from plastic, leather, or fabric and come in various colours and designs. Some even have extra pockets for storing other essential travel documents like boarding passes, IDs, vaccination proof, currency, and credit cards. This added functionality helps keep your important documents organised and easily accessible during your travels.

Additionally, some passport covers offer RFID-blocking technology, which protects your passport's RFID chip from being read without your knowledge. This feature provides extra security and peace of mind, safeguarding your personal information from potential identity theft.

While a passport cover adds convenience and style to your travels, it's important to note that it also adds an extra step at passport control, as officers will need to remove the cover or have you do so. Nonetheless, the benefits of using a passport cover generally outweigh this minor inconvenience.

When choosing a passport cover, opt for one made from durable materials that fit snugly around your passport for maximum protection. A good-quality passport cover is a wise investment that will ensure the security and longevity of your passport, simplifying your travel experience.

Making copies of your passport

• Photocopy the data page of your passport. Make several copies and keep them in different places, such as in your luggage, carry-on bag, and even in your pocket. That way, if your passport is lost or stolen, you'll have a backup.
• Store digital copies securely. Scan your passport or take a photo of it and email it to yourself or store it in a cloud service like Google Drive. This will make it easily accessible if you need to replace it.
• Leave a copy at home. It's a good idea to leave a copy of your passport with a trusted friend or family member at home. That way, if you lose your passport while travelling, they can send you a copy.
• Keep a copy with you when exploring. In some countries, like Guatemala, you must carry your passport with you at all times. However, it's safer to carry a copy and leave the original in a hotel safe. Police usually accept a photocopy, so you can securely store the original and still have proof of your identification if needed.
• Use a passport cover. A sturdy, waterproof passport cover will protect your passport from physical damage. It's also a great way to personalise your passport and make it stand out, making it easier to find in your bag.

Knowing what to do if you lose your passport

Losing your passport at the airport can be a scary experience, but there are steps you can take to mitigate the damage and get a replacement. Here's what to do if you lose your passport at the airport:

• Stay calm and retrace your steps: Start by retracing your steps and searching the areas you've been in. Check your bags, pockets, and anywhere else you might have placed your passport. It's also a good idea to ask anyone you're travelling or living with if they've seen or moved your passport.
• Report the loss: If you can't find your passport, the next step is to report it as lost or stolen. Contact the last airport you travelled through, the last airline you flew with, and any other places you might have visited, such as a hotel or restaurant. You should also report the loss to the US Department of State by submitting Form DS-64 and Form DS-11 online, calling their hotline, or mailing Form DS-64. Once you report your passport as lost or stolen, it becomes invalid, so you won't be able to travel with it even if you find it later.
• Apply for an urgent replacement: If you have an upcoming international flight within 72 hours, you may be able to get a replacement passport in time. Contact the nearest US embassy or consulate, as they can issue emergency passports. You must make an appointment at a passport agency or centre, and while same-day passports are possible, they are hard to get.
• Change your travel plans if necessary: If you can't get a replacement passport in time, you'll need to change your travel plans. Contact your airline to see if you can change your flight or cancel your trip. You may be able to receive a refund or e-credit for your flight and any pre-booked activities.

To avoid losing your passport in the future, follow these tips:

• Keep your passport in the same place: Always store your passport in the same place, both at home and when travelling.
• Use a trackable passport holder: Invest in a passport holder with a slot for a tracking device, such as an Apple AirTag or Tile tracker.
• Designate a specific spot for your passport when travelling: During your journey, designate a secure spot in your bag for your passport and check it regularly.
• Put one of your shoes in the safe: If you put your passport in a hotel safe, put one of your shoes in there too. You won't leave your room without your shoes, and it will remind you to check the safe.

Frequently asked questions