Top passport carrying tips
Having a passport misplaced or stolen ruins any trip. Help your employees stay safe and secure with these top passport carrying tips!
Before You Go
Make at least two photocopies of your passport’s photo page. Leave one at home with a friend or family member. If you’re travelling with somebody, give a copy to them too.
Take other photocopies with you; store one at the bottom of each of your bags, including your purse/briefcase/wallet. This way if you’re separated from your passport and/or any one of your belongings, you’ll have access to copies.
For extra protection, store an encrypted copy on a USB stick.
While In-Transit
Habits are crucial! A classic mistake is to board the plane, put your passport in the seat pocket, and forget it’s there when deplaning. By always keeping your passport in the same place, you’ll notice earlier if it’s missing.
Here are some ways to carry your passport while in-transit:
Neck wallet, cross-body sling, or money belt, worn underneath your clothes
Pickpocket-proof clothing (underwear, shirts, infinity scarves, jackets, pants – all with zipped hidden pockets)
Special briefcase or purse pocket. (Beware of purse-snatchers!)
Never store your passport in your luggage (including carry-on). This is important when travelling by bus or train; luggage is regularly stolen, especially if it’s stowed under the bus or separate from your seat. Your passport should always be within arm’s reach.
RFID Protection
Most Canadian and U.S. passports are vulnerable to wireless identity theft via portable scanners; from several feet away, somebody can retrieve personal information from your passport in your pocket or purse!
To mitigate this risk, use an RFID-protected passport wallet or sleeve.
At Your Destination
While technically you’re required to have your passport at all times, this increases chances of loss or theft. A passport copy will suffice; worst case scenario if authorities won’t accept a copy, they’ll accompany you back to your hotel or require you to report back with the original.
On arrival to your destination, store your passport in one of the following locations:
Hotel room safe
Hotel reception (if there’s no in-room safe)
Locked inside your luggage
Best Practices
Don’t allow your passport out of your sight or give it to anybody you don’t trust.
Scams exist where people posing as police ask for your passport. If they don’t accept a copy, then call your consulate on the spot to ensure the legitimacy of the “authority’s” request. Imposters won’t stick around!
Know Your Insurance Coverage
Some travel insurance policies help with lost/stolen passport replacement. Know your coverage, and have the insurance company phone number handy so you can call them in a pinch.
The Travel Navigator app has a plethora of information at your fingertips, including passport and visa requirements, insurance information, location alerts, local emergency numbers, and instant access to Intrepid Assistance. Encourage your employees to download and familiarize themselves with it before travelling.
For more insight, visit Travel Navigator.