In 2026, the general consensus among travel safety experts is that it is safer to leave your passport in a locked hotel safe than to carry it with you at all times. While there is a small risk of hotel staff or intruders accessing a safe, the statistical probability of your passport being lost, damaged, or stolen by a pickpocket on the street is much higher. If you choose to leave it in the room, it is wise to carry a high-quality color photocopy or a digital scan on your phone for identification purposes. Some travelers also use a secondary lock or a "portable safe" for added security. However, you must always check the local laws of your destination; some countries, such as Japan or several European nations, legally require foreign tourists to carry their original passport at all times. If the law requires it, use a concealed money belt rather than a backpack or back pocket. For most travelers, the "safe-in-safe" approach combined with a US Passport Card in your wallet provides the best balance of security and convenience.