Deciding whether to carry your passport or leave it in your hotel room depends on the local laws of your destination and your personal risk tolerance. In many countries, such as Spain or Japan, it is a legal requirement for foreigners to carry original identification at all times. If you choose to leave it in the hotel, the in-room electronic safe is the standard storage spot, though these are not entirely foolproof. Many seasoned travelers prefer to carry a high-quality physical photocopy or a digital scan on their phone while keeping the original locked away to prevent the devastating logistical nightmare of a lost or stolen passport while out exploring. However, if you are in an area prone to pickpockets, a money belt worn under your clothing is the most secure way to carry the original. In 2026, with the rise of digital IDs, some regions are becoming more lenient, but as a grounded peer, I recommend checking the specific "entry and stay" rules for your destination on a government travel advisory site, as the "right" choice is often a balance between the risk of a street theft and the legal requirement to show identification to a police officer if requested.