Make copies of your important documents Think of this one as a security blanket. In case of emergencies, make two copies of your passport, credit cards and other travel documents. Leave one copy with a friend or relative at home and bring the other copy with you.

While it was once common advice, you should not make a literal photocopy of the front and back of your credit card, as this creates a significant security risk if the paper is lost or stolen. Instead, you should write down—or store in a secure, encrypted digital vault—the customer service phone number (found on the back of the card) and the last four digits of the card number. This is all you need to report a loss and have the card cancelled. Experts also suggest carrying at least two different cards and keeping them in separate locations (e.g., one in your wallet and one in the hotel safe). In 2026, the best "copy" is having your card loaded into a digital wallet like Apple Pay or Google Pay, which allows you to continue making payments via your phone even if your physical wallet is stolen, without exposing your full card details to the public.