​8 things you should never do with your passport while travelling

Your passport is one of the most important documents you’ll carry while travelling abroad. It’s not just an ID, it’s your gateway to international destinations. Misplacing or mishandling it can lead to cancelled trips, denied entry, or even legal trouble. While most travellers understand the importance of keeping their passport safe, there are still common mistakes people make that can jeopardise their journey. Here’s what you should never do with your passport while travelling.

Treat your passport as you would cash or a credit card. Leaving it on a hotel bed, a café table, washroom or in your car can make it an easy target for theft. Always store it in a secure bag, a locked suitcase, or the hotel safe. One of the most common cases is that of leaving one’s passport inside the airport washroom.

While convenient, back pockets are prime spots for pickpockets, especially in crowded areas like public transport or tourist attractions. You can instead go with the front pocket, travel belt, or neck pouch to keep your passport safe and away from sticky fingers.

Passports are official government documents with strict security standards. Do not fold or tear them. Folding pages, tearing them, or otherwise damaging your passport can make it invalid for travel and may even prevent you from boarding flights or crossing borders.

Some travellers try to laminate passports to protect them from water or wear, but this is dangerous. Lamination destroys embedded security features and will make your passport unusable. Use a protective sleeve or waterproof cover if you must.

You never know who will use in what way, all the photos and information you put up on social media. When it comes to your passport, it’s a big no-no. Posting photos of your passport or sharing its number on social media can lead to identity theft or fraud. From creating fake documents to committing financial crimes using your details, for someone with nefarious intentions, the options are limitless. Hence, it is important to treat your passport information as highly confidential.

Many countries require your passport to be valid for six months beyond your date of entry. Travelling with an expired or near-expiry passport can result in denied boarding or entry. Check expiry dates well in advance and renew if necessary.

Adding personal notes, highlighting, or placing stickers inside your passport can invalidate it. If your passport has unofficial markings, it may get rejected by the immigration officials. Also, keep it out of reach of small children as they may scribble inside your passport or damage it.

In case of lost passport or theft, stay calm but act quickly. Reporting it immediately to local authorities and your embassy is important and should be taken seriously. Prompt action can prevent identity theft, help you obtain an emergency travel document, and minimise disruption to your trip.