Alright, let’s talk about something that genuinely gives me the jitters when I’m planning a trip: losing my passport. Seriously, just the thought of it. I had this mate, let’s call him Dave, who went through this whole ordeal in Thailand. Man, it completely wrecked his holiday. He spent days, literally days, at the embassy, trying to get emergency travel documents. That story alone was enough to make me super careful. So, I figured I’d share what I actually do, my little system, to keep that precious booklet safe.
My Pre-Trip Ritual: Getting Prepared
Okay, so before I even start thinking about what clothes to pack, I get my passport situation sorted. It’s like step zero for me now.
First off, I make copies. And I mean, several copies. I’m not just talking one grainy photocopy. I do a good color scan and print a couple. Here’s where they go:
- One in my checked luggage: Tucked away somewhere obscure, not just sitting on top.
- One in my carry-on bag: Again, in a separate compartment from where my actual passport might be if I’m carrying it.
- A digital copy: I email it to myself and save it in a secure cloud storage. This has been a lifesaver for other documents too, by the way.
- One with someone at home: My sister usually gets a copy, just in case I need someone to send details from back home.
I also take a clear photo of my passport’s photo page and any visa pages on my phone. Then I favorite that photo so I can find it quick. Sounds like a bit much? Maybe. But trust me, if you ever lose the real thing, having these backups makes the nightmare a tiny bit more manageable.
On the Move: How I Carry It
Now, this is where I reckon a lot of folks slip up. Walking around a new city, all excited, it’s easy to get careless.
Never, ever, in my back pocket. That’s just like putting up a big sign saying “Hey pickpockets, free passport here!” Same goes for a loose jacket pocket in a crowded place. Too easy.
For years, I just used to shove it deep into my backpack. But then I started reading about bag slashers, and, well, paranoia kicked in. So, I switched things up. Most of the time, I use a money belt. Yeah, the dorky-looking ones that go under your clothes. Who cares what it looks like if no one can see it, right? My passport, a spare credit card, and some emergency cash live in there, right against my skin. Pretty secure, I’d say.
If I’m not using the money belt, maybe for a quick outing, I make sure the bag I’m using has an internal, zipped pocket, preferably one that sits against my back. Or I’ll use a crossbody bag that I can swing to the front and keep my hand on. The main thing is, it shouldn’t be easy for someone to just dip in and grab it. I’m always thinking, “How many barriers can I put between a thief and my passport?”
At the Hotel or Hostel: Safe and Sound
Once I get to where I’m staying, the game changes slightly. If there’s a room safe, that’s the first place my passport goes. Lock it up, job done. I always double-check I’ve got it before I check out, though! Left a phone in a safe once, never again.
No safe? Okay, this happens, especially in cheaper places or Airbnbs. Then, my passport either stays on me in that trusty money belt, even if I’m just nipping out for food, or I find a really, really good hiding spot in my main luggage, which I then lock. And I don’t mean just under the pillow or in a book. Thieves know those spots. You gotta be a bit more creative. I won’t share my secret spots, haha, find your own!
Just Be Aware, You Know?
A lot of this is just about being generally aware of your surroundings and not being too flashy. When I need to show my passport – like at airport check-in or a hotel – I take it out, use it, and then put it away immediately and securely. I don’t just leave it sitting on the counter while I fumble with my wallet or phone. That’s prime time for it to go walkies or for someone to quickly note down your details.
Honestly, it might sound like I’m a bit over the top, but these little habits have just become second nature. I don’t even really think about them much anymore. And the peace of mind I get? Totally worth it. I can actually relax and enjoy my travels without that constant, nagging worry in the back of my mind. Because believe me, trying to replace a lost passport in a foreign country is an experience I’m happy to avoid. That’s one travel story I don’t want to have to tell.
