Do you have to hand over your passport when staying at a hotel abroad? Experts: It’s best to carry two copies with you

▲ Important concepts about protecting your passport (Photo / Darzhi / Illustration)

By Rita

Many people have had this experience: after arriving at a hotel, they take out their passport to check in at the front desk. This seemingly natural act actually carries certain risks, yet many people are largely unaware of them.The UK's Daily Mailspoke to hotel experts to teach travelers how to protect their passports.

1. Is there a risk in registering passport details at the hotel front desk?
In fact, in countries like the UK, hotel staff are required to register guest details because it is mandated by law. However, if this information is stolen, guests could indeed face financial losses or the misuse of their personal data. The moment you hand over your passport, you are placing full trust in the hotel staff to properly safeguard that information.

2. Do travelers absolutely have to show their passport?
According to the laws of some countries, hotels have the right to refuse check-in if a traveler does not present their passport. But while registration is necessary, there’s no need to leave your passport at the front desk. After registration, retrieve it immediately and keep it safe. If truly necessary, ask the front desk to make a copy.

Additionally, it’s best for travelers to carry two copies of their passport with them. In case of loss, these can at least serve as temporary identification. Or, simply use the copies when checking in to ensure the safety of the original.

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