Headed to Bali for a dream getaway? Jetting off to Berlin for business? No matter your destination, your passport is your most important travel essential (aside from Faye travel protection, that is). And in 2025—with travel booming and more moving parts than ever—keeping your passport safe is just good sense.
This guide shares how to protect your passport before and during your trip—with expert tips, real-world examples, and a few clever tools (including one built by Faye) to help you travel confidently.
Why passport safety matters more than ever in 2025
Your passport isn’t just a document—it’s your identity abroad. Lose it, and your dream trip can quickly spiral into chaos. Here’s why it pays to plan ahead:
- More travelers, more targets. Busy airports, packed metros, and bustling cafes are pickpocket magnets.
- Scams are getting sneakier. Distraction tactics, too-good-to-be-true deals, and unexpected detours can catch even the savviest travelers off guard.
- Replacements = delays. Even with embassy help, a new passport can take days—and dollars.
Real story: what happened when Jackie lost her passport
Jackie, a Faye traveler, lost her passport midway through a two-month trip. Here’s what she shared:
“We had an issue come up with a lost/stolen passport and we were able to use the insurance…They were very helpful. We were very pleased with our experience and will be using Faye again in the future.” – Jackie, Trustpilot
Not a situation anyone wants to be in, but exactly the kind of moment Faye was made for.
Situations like hers is one of the reasons we created Safekeeping, a feature in the Faye app that lets you upload your passport and most precious documents before takeoff to securely store backups. If your phone’s lost too, we can send everything to your travel companion.
Even Reddit is full of cautionary tales—like the traveler who had their cards and cash stolen mid-flight. The comments? Packed with smart reminders like keeping emergency cash and asking hotel staff for embassy support.
And then there’s Chloe—the traveler whose story went viral after her friend’s dog ate her passport before a flight home. (Yes, really.) Thanks to the kindness of a stranger and a last-minute miracle, she made it back in time for the holidays.
→ Already booked with Faye? Upload your docs in the app.
→ New to Faye? Get travel protection built for the unexpected.
How to keep your passport safe while traveling
Here’s your quick-start checklist for smarter, safer travel in 2025.
1. Store it securely
- Use your hotel safe. If you don’t need your passport today, lock it up.
- Carry a copy instead. Unless you’re crossing borders, a photocopy often does the trick.
- Pack a portable safe. No in-room safe? A TSA-approved lockbox gets the job done.
2. Carry it discreetly when needed
- Skip the back pocket. Obvious but worth repeating.
- Go anti-theft. Neck pouches, RFID-blocking wallets, or lockable crossbodies are your friends.
- Stay alert in crowds. Especially in crowded transit stations or festivals.
3. Make (and store) backups
- Print two copies. One for your bag, one for your suitcase.
- Upload to the cloud. Use a password-protected folder.
- Or use Faye’s Safekeeping tool. Available exclusively in our app, think of it as your secure digital storage. Plus, you can reach human help, 24/7 in the app too.
4. Protect it from damage
- Waterproof it. Use a sleeve or zip pouch to protect from spills or weather.
- Don’t fold it. Don’t cram it. Damaged passports can be rejected at customs.
5. Be mindful with social media
- Don’t post your passport photo. Identity theft isn’t worth the likes.
- Avoid real-time geotags. Especially when solo traveling or leaving your home empty.
What to do if your passport is lost or stolen abroad
Follow these steps to get back on track fast:
- Retrace your steps. You might’ve just left it at a café or gate.
- File a police report. It serves as your official record and is often required for replacement.
- Take a new passport photo. You’ll need fresh photos for your replacement passport. Taking care of this early helps speed things up. Here are the current U.S. passport photo requirements.
- Call the embassy. They’ll walk you through getting a temporary passport. You’ll typically need to bring:
- Form DS-11: Application for a new passport
- Form DS-64: Statement reporting your passport as lost or stolen
You can find both forms here.
- File a claim in the Faye app. We’ll not only help you with the logistics and the right place to take photos, but you can also get reimbursed up to $50 to help you cover the expenses.
Traveling with Faye and have additional questions?
We’re available 24/7—our team can provide embassy details or reach out on your behalf to confirm what’s needed and how long it’ll take to get your new/temporary passport.
Smart habits to level up your passport safety
- Keep it on you during transit. Never stash it in checked bags or seat pockets.
- Check the expiration date. Some countries require 6 months of validity.
- Loop in your crew. Make sure travel buddies know what to do if plans take an unexpected turn.
*Bonus tip: Set a calendar reminder to renew your passport 9 months before it expires.
Passport panic-proofing starts here
A lost passport doesn’t have to ruin your trip. A little prep and the right travel protection goes a long way.
So take a few minutes. Protect your trip. Upload your docs. Pack your bag. And travel like someone who’s got a plan (because now, you do).
Some activities and websites mentioned in this post are suggestions and Faye is in no way associated with them. This post is meant to give you ideas and inspiration for passport safety.
