Passport: leave it at the hotel or take it with you?

One of the most common concerns of travelers is the safety of their passportShould you carry it with you at all times, or is it safe to leave it at the hotel? This dilemma can be anxiety-inducing, but it's essential to make informed decisions to enjoy your trip without incident. Read on to learn the key aspects of managing your passport and avoid inconveniences.

Risks of carrying your passport with you

When you decide to transport your passport During your excursions, you face several risks. The first and most important is theft. If a thief manages to get hold of your passport, could cause you serious legal and identification problems abroad. There are even scammers who pose as police officers to request your passport, taking an important travel document in the process.

Tips for carrying your passport

If you decide to bring your passportMake sure you keep it in a safe place. Money carriers, travel wallets, or even a hidden seatbelt can be useful options. It's also a good idea to keep a photocopy on hand in case you lose the original. This way, you can prove your identity until you resolve the issue.

However, remember that some authorities in countries such as Japan, Germany and Spain require foreigners to carry the passport original. This legislation may vary, so it's important to always be informed about the regulations in the countries you visit.

Considerations on the type of accommodation

The risk of leaving the passport The level of security at the hotel may depend on its category. Luxury hotels tend to offer more reliable safes for storing your documents. On the other hand, simpler hotels may not provide the same level of security, increasing the chances of theft or loss.

The importance of having copies of your passport

The best practice is to have copies of your passport by hand. This not only helps you in case of loss, but can also facilitate any procedure at an embassy or consulate. On several occasions, it has been indicated that photocopies may be accepted temporarily; however, the final decision is at the discretion of the authority assisting you.

Legislation and behavior of the authorities

The French Embassy, for example, states that document checks in public places are part of its legislation, while the US Embassy mentions that there is no uniform standard and that conduct should be in accordance with local police instructions. This underscores the importance of keeping an eye on the status of your passport at all times.

In addition to each country's regulations, always check with your hotel about how they secure important documents. Some hotel chains may offer security services for your belongings, while other locations may not.

What to do if you lose your passport

If, despite all your precautions, you lose your passport, the first thing you should do is contact the local police authority and register a Boletín de Ocorrência. This document will be essential for any subsequent procedures and will help you prove that the passport was stolen or lost.

Steps to recover your passport

After registering the incident, go to your country's Consular Portal to request a new one. passport or a Return Authorization. Please note that this process may take time and, in some cases, you will need to present additional documents to prove your identity.

Also remember that if you plan to drive during your trip, bring the passport It's essential. Without it, you could face additional legal issues, including fines or arrests. Therefore, make sure you always have a copy on hand and the original secured at the hotel.

Final conclusions

Decide whether to take the passport with you or leave it at the hotel is a difficult question, but not impossible to resolve. The most important thing is to always weigh the advantages and disadvantages, in addition to being informed about local policies. If you decide to leave the passport At the hotel, be sure to keep it in a safe place and have copies on hand to avoid any inconvenience.

Your safety is the most important thing

At the end of the day, the safety of your passport It's essential to enjoying your experience abroad. Take the time to plan how to handle your important documents and be proactive about prevention. With these tips and precautions, you can enjoy your trip with peace of mind and without unnecessary worries.