The 1 Place You Should Never Put Your Passport-Plus, the Best Hack to Keep It Safe While Traveling

"When you pack your passport in your carry-on luggage, you're seemingly tucking the document away where you can't lose it. In reality, this is a big mistake that can cause major headaches. When traveling internationally, it's essential to keep your passport with you at all times. If you pack your passport in your carry-on and later need to gate-check your bag, you won't be able to retrieve your passport before you reach immigration. This could result in being denied entry to your destination."

"Plus, many travelers report experiencing theft upon landing at their destination. Whether it's at baggage claim or while heading to your hotel, someone can easily snag your luggage with your passport still inside. Even if you're traveling domestically, you shouldn't keep your passport in your carry-on. Travelers frequently need to stow their carry-on luggage in an overhead bin far from their seat, and in this case, you won't be able to keep an eye on your belongings."

Passports are now commonly used for domestic identification due to new ID requirements. Packing a passport in carry-on luggage creates risks when the bag is gate-checked because the passport becomes inaccessible before immigration, potentially causing denial of entry. Theft can occur at baggage claim, while traveling to a hotel, or even in-flight if carry-on items are stored in overhead bins. Travelers should keep passports on their person in secure carriers. Crossbody bags, belt bags, and money belts secure passports, wallets, and phones close to the body and reduce the risk of loss or theft.

Read at Travel + Leisure