In the post-September 11 world, travel documents are critical. Difficult and time-consuming to replace, passports and boarding passes do not fit neatly into a wallet and can be awkward to carry. They are also targets for theft as they carry a high value on the black market. The best method for storing travel documents varies according to the type of traveling you are doing.
When you are between trips, keep your travel documents well protected but easily accessible. A fireproof safe is the best protection, particularly if it is bolted to the floor. Thieves have been known to completely remove even very heavy unbolted safes and take them to a workshop to crack open later.
When you arrive at a hotel, place your travel documents in either your room safe or a safe deposit box at the front desk. It is more convenient to keep them in your room, but generally more hotel employees have access to in-room safes than to the safe deposit boxes. Remember to take your documents with you when you leave the hotel, particularly in countries where you may be asked to present documents at any time.
When staying at a youth hostel, you might share a dorm room and other facilities with travelers from around the world. Although most hostel travelers are friendly and honest, it is best to err on the side of caution. Always travel with a secure combination lock. If the hostel provides lockers, use your own lock to safely store your documents. If not, pack your documents carefully in a hidden compartment inside your bag and lock the bag with your combination lock. Consider chaining the bag to your bed for extra security.
During flights and train travel, and while exploring the city by foot or taxi, carry your documents in a neck wallet or money belt hidden beneath your clothes. Lightweight pouches are inexpensive and comfortable enough to be worn all day. Never place your documents in a fanny pack or the outside pocket of a backpack or day pack. All are favorite targets for thieves.
Despite your best efforts to protect your travel documents, the risk of theft or loss always exists. Prepare for the worst by making several backup copies of your documents. Store one copy in a hidden compartment of your carry-on bag. Leave at least two copies with friends or relatives who can fax them to you if needed. Many travelers email themselves a copy of their documents, but keep in mind that even an encrypted computer system could theoretically be hacked.
Many companies now offer on-line secure storage for travel documents. Although no system is hacker-proof, the advanced security features offer enhanced protection. Just like a photocopy, an on-line copy of your documents is not sufficient for border crossings or other official business, but it can help to prove your identity and streamline the process of obtaining new documents. On-line storage companies charge a small annual fee for the service.
