Brits warn of passport mistakes that could cost them their holidays

There are many reasons why people worry when they travel, but there is one thing that could stop your travels that you probably haven’t thought about.

While we all spend our time stressing about baggage allowances and liquid allowances, we don’t pay as much attention to the status of our passports.

Thousands of tourists face problems at airports every year due to damaged passports. This can lead to travel disruptions, flight bans, and financial losses.

Damage can include rips, tears or even marks, as was the case for one woman who missed a trip to Mexico due to the status of her passport.

In June, Laila March was denied entry by TUI. She couldn’t get on the plane because her passport had a small scratch, despite having used it to return from Morocco the day before.

Checks or denials are carried out to ensure that passports are legitimate and have not been falsified or altered in any way.

“A passport is the gateway to the world, and even a little damage can cause complications at airport check-in counters,” warns Gavin Lapidus, director of travel consultancy eShores.

If airport security is concerned about the validity of your passport, you may be held at the airport for further questioning, even if you have already landed at your destination.

‘Most passports last ten years, during which time you can expect some wear and tear. When you travel, your passport is checked for damage, tampering and validity, and damaged documents face rejection, bringing your holiday to an end,’ says Gavin.

While minor scratches and bent pages are generally acceptable, Gavin recommends replacing your passport if there is any significant damage to avoid problems.

The following tips on what to look out for with damaged passports are designed to ensure a hassle-free travel experience.

1. Water damage

Be careful where you store your passport, especially near liquids: passports with “significant water damage” are often deemed invalid for travel.

While things can easily get splattered, if any vital information is obscured by smudges, you may be denied permission. Also be wary if the laminate has lifted due to some water damage – this could be a false warning sign to authorities that the photo has been altered.

2. Rips, rips and holes

A common misconception is that as long as all of your passport information is present, visible and legible, it is acceptable for travel, but this is not true.

Holes and cuts are often used to cancel old passports, so current passports containing them are often rejected. If the passport chip can be seen from the back cover, this can also lead to a rejection.

3. loose cover

Even if the inside of your passport is spotless, a loose or even completely detached cover can result in you being denied access.

While it can be difficult to remove your passport to present it to authorities, the best way to protect your covers is to get a case or cover.

3. Novelty travel stamps are not worth it

Many tourist destinations and famous places sell unofficial or novelty passport stamps.

However, if you place them on or inside your passport, they may be rejected as they are not officially recognized.

4. Don’t force your luck

Just because your damaged passport has been accepted before doesn’t mean it will be accepted this time. Some countries and airports may have stricter rules regarding the status of your passport.

Bali, Vietnam, Qatar, Australia and the United States, for example, have very strict rules when it comes to damaged passports. You could also hire a stricter staff member.

At the end of the day, prevention is always better than cure and it is better to replace your passport.

You don’t want to risk missing out on a dream getaway because you have a bad passport.

Details about passport validity can be found on the government website.

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