Why You Should Never Put Your Passport in Your Carry-On

• Gate-Checked Bags Risk: If your carry-on is gate-checked unexpectedly, and your passport is inside, you may not have access to it when needed—especially before clearing immigration.

  
  

• Immigration Access: International travelers typically need to go through immigration before collecting checked baggage. Without your passport, you may be denied entry or delayed.

  
  

• Missed Connections: If you don’t have your passport during a layover or immigration check, you could miss your connecting flight.

  
  

• Risk of Theft or Loss: Passports stored in carry-ons, especially in overhead bins far from your seat, are at greater risk of theft or being forgotten. Retrieving lost items after deplaning can be difficult.

  
  

• Replacement Challenges: Replacing a lost passport is costly and time-consuming, often requiring multiple documents and appointments.

  
  

• Best Practice: Always keep your passport on your person or in a secure, easily accessible part of your personal item (like a crossbody bag or zippered pocket). You’ll need it throughout the journey—at security, boarding, and immigration.