Your passport is the most valuable documentation you will take on a trip. It helps you get from country to country, and without it you could be left stranded. 

Given it's an internationally recognised travel and identity document, it also means that it's high on the priority list for potential thieves. So you need to be aware and keep it safe.

The way you pack and look after your passport will inevitably determine whether or not you get through your planned trip without any hiccups. If you don't take the appropriate measures to keep your passport safe, it could mean being stranded in a country for weeks longer than you had planned. Or even worse, a lost passport can result in identity theft or credit card fraud.

So how do you pack your passport to keep it safe while travelling?

Let's take a look at some helpful tips.

Keep it on you at all times

The safest place for your passport is usually on your person. However, it can also put a target on your back with potential thieves.

Consider getting a passport pouch to hold your travel documents, and wear it underneath your clothing, close to your body.

Also, try to avoid openly taking your passport out in public places. If your passport is stored inside a pouch, close to your body, and you don't let anyone know that it's there... It significantly reduces the chance of someone trying to steal it from you.

Pick the right luggage

If you don't want to carry a passport pouch, or something similar, make sure you pick the type of luggage that will keep your passport safe. 

For example, many backpacks and carry bags are designed with slash proof material and RFID blocking technology. This keeps your passport safe from physical and digital thieves.

The Soho Anti-Theft Crossbody here at Zoomlite is a good slimline option for storing your valuables and keeping them close to your body. But still remember to avoid taking your passport out too often in public.

Don't use hotel safes

Of course it depends on where you are staying, but often hotel safes are not the most secure place to store your valuables. They tend to have similar locking mechanisms that are easy for thieves to break into.

If you have some items that you absolutely don't want to walk around with, then consider using the safe in your hotel because it's probably better than just leaving them in your bag. But when it comes to your passport, seriously think about keeping it on you at all times.

Get the right security equipment

As well as using anti-theft bags that prevent physical slashing, it's important to take other safety measures with your luggage. 

Use locks to secure your main suitcase or backpack, even if you don't plan on keeping your passport in there. And remember that not all thieves are out to physically steal your belongings.

In this digital world a lot of travel theft happens without you even knowing. Crafty thieves use document skimming and scanning technology to steal the important information on your travel documents and use that information to steal your identity. 

Protect yourself with RFID blocking travel wallets for your passport.

Take photocopies

Another helpful tip for keeping your passport safe while travelling is to take several photocopies of it with you. What this does is allow you to access the important information on your passport without physically taking it out in public.

Often rental businesses for cars or other equipment will require a copy of your identification, or at least the details from your passport. By using a photocopy in this scenario you can save yourself from becoming vulnerable to potential thieves.

 What other things do you do while travelling to keep your passport safe?