In 2026, you generally do not need to print a physical boarding pass if you have the digital version saved in your Apple Wallet. Nearly all major international and domestic airports are equipped with scanners that can read the QR codes directly from your iPhone or Apple Watch at security checkpoints and boarding gates. The digital pass is considered a legal and valid travel document. However, there are two exceptions: first, some airports in developing regions or smaller regional hubs may still require paper documentation. Second, if your phone battery dies or the screen is severely cracked, the scanners may fail. For peace of mind on long-haul international flights with multiple connections, some travelers still prefer to print a backup copy or take a screenshot of the pass to ensure accessibility even without an active internet connection or in case of technical glitches.