Yes, travel agents typically need your passport number when booking international travel. Passport information is a crucial part of the travel booking process, as it is required by airlines and immigration authorities around the world.
People Also Ask
If a travel agent or someone in an allied industry needs a copy of your passport, you can always send an image with redacted information.
They can help find the best rooms, book services you didn't even know existed and tie all the pieces together on a complicated itinerary. A travel agent can be particularly beneficial if you don't have the time to do all the research yourself, or if you're looking for help in getting the best deal.
What color should you wear for a passport photo? Dark solid colors are best; they will pop against a white background. You can wear light colors too, and even patterns, but not if they are distracting. If you wear white, your body could disappear into the background and you may be asked to retake the photo.
If the request is legitimate, such as verifying your identity or helping the host remember who you are, then providing the details may be in your best interest. If you are uncomfortable sharing this information, it's recommended to contact Airbnb's customer service to discuss your concerns.
Moussouris explained that hotels collect identity information so they can run background checks, as well as to serve as a reference for the government should anything criminal happen. That law enforcement element means that hotels may need to store, not just check, identification.
Leave Your Passport at the HotelAlthough your passport is required as an ID when travelling abroad, you don't really need to carry it around with you everywhere. Consider moving around the city with your driver's license instead, and leave your passport behind in the hotel safe.
Many countries have laws requiring foreign visitors to register with the local police. By taking your passports the hotels are doing this for you (and it's not their decision - it's the law - they have no choice). If the hotel didn't do this for you, you would have to find a local police station and register yourself.
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.