Passport theft: How to keep your passport safe

Last year more than 21,000 British passports were lost or stolen abroad.

Top tips to keep your passport safe

The FCO has published some handy tips to help you keep your passport safe.

• Be aware of your surroundings and be wary of strangers who take an unusual amount of interest in you.
• A damaged passport cannot be used for travel, so value it and keep it safe
• Lock your passport in a safe if you have access to one, or if you are required to keep it with you, ensure its location is not visible
• Make two photocopies of your passport – leave one with friends or family and take the second with you, or store an electronic copy securely. Where permitted, use your photocopy as alternative ID, for example when going out at night
• For certain countries your passport must be valid for 6 months after the date you travel – check the entry requirements before you go
• Ensure you fill in the emergency details / next of kin page before you go

What to do if your passport is lost or stolen

Becoming a victim of crime abroad can be very distressing and cause major disruption to your holiday. Replacing your passport after a loss or theft can be time consuming and expensive.

For more information on what to do if your passport is lost or stolen read our article: Replacing a lost or stolen passport

Travel insurance for lost and stolen passports

Silver, Gold and Platinum policies from Goodtogoinsurance.com provide cover for the reasonable cost of obtaining a replacement passport, up to the amount stated in your schedule of cover. In order for your claim to be successful you must have reported the loss or theft to the local police and obtain a written police report.

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