Never keep your passport in your back pocket. That pocket is called the “sucker pocket” for a reason. The very best way to keep your passport safe is to carry it on your person in an anti-theft pouch or money belt that is hidden under your clothes. Here is a selection of anti-theft money belts and wallets.

The safest way to carry a passport is to keep it on your person and concealed at all times while in transit. Experienced travelers recommend using a money belt or a neck pouch worn underneath your clothing, as this makes it nearly impossible for a pickpocket to access without your knowledge. You should avoid keeping your passport in a backpack or a loose pocket where a "snatch-and-grab" thief could easily take it while you are distracted. If you are staying in a reputable hotel, utilizing the room safe is generally considered a secure secondary option for when you are exploring for the day, though you should still carry a high-quality physical or digital photocopy of the data page with you. It is also wise to conceal your passport in a plain cover to avoid advertising your nationality, which can sometimes make you a target in specific regions. Always make multiple digital backups (stored on a secure cloud service) and leave a physical copy with a trusted contact back home. This ensures that if the original is lost or stolen, you have the necessary information to expedite the replacement process at the nearest embassy, which is vital for proving your identity and citizenship in a foreign country.