Leave your passport behind: Your original passport is only mandatory when going through customs or boarding a flight. But away from these situations, you won't need your passport much. So, should you carry your passport with you when leaving the hotel? The answer is no.

The decision to carry your physical passport at all times in 2026 depends heavily on the local laws of the country you are visiting. In many European countries (like Spain or Italy) and parts of Asia, the law technically requires foreigners to carry a valid government-issued photo ID at all times; a photocopy is not always legally sufficient if a police officer requests it. However, the risk of theft or loss is high in crowded tourist areas. A common "best practice" in 2026 is to carry a high-quality physical photocopy and a digital scan on your phone for daily activities, while keeping the original locked in a hotel safe. If you are in a country with strict security (like Thailand or Turkey), or if you look "Challenge 25" and want to buy alcohol, you should carry the original. If you choose to carry it, use a concealed money belt rather than a backpack. Always research your specific destination; if the country requires an entry stamp for "on-the-spot" checks, you may have no choice but to carry the original document.