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Prevent A Stolen U.S. Passport And Keep Secure
By CruiseDirector | January 26, 2010
When you are traveling overseas your passport is one of the most important documents that you carry with you. A passport can be a prized item among some foreign thieves. But there are plenty of measures that you can take to avoid a stolen United States passport and to keep safe and secure while traveling.
In the event that your passport is stolen you should contact the consulate or embassy of your country as soon as possible. It is a good idea to have their details noted down with your travel documents for the sake of efficiency if something does happen. Some countries have the capability for you to report your stolen passport online through the department of foreign affairs. It is essential that you report its loss so that it cannot be misused or your identity cannot be used for fraud.
If your passport is stolen, you should report it as soon as possible. You will need to have a replacement passport issued in order to be able to leave the country you are visiting. At the local diplomatic mission of your nation you will complete a passport application, have the interview done, pay the replacement fee and you may also have to pay an extra fee for the lost passport.
When you are traveling you should keep your passport safe and sound by keeping it close to you at all times. The best way to do this is by putting it in a money belt around your belly. Never put your passport in a suitcase as you lose sight of these and thefts or loss is common. Don’t carry your passport in a day pack as these can be targeted by pick pockets or thieves.
After you have used your passport put it away immediately. Do not leave it lying on counters or tables as you can very easily forget to pick it up again. If you are using your passport to change money, register at a hotel, at customs or in any other situation, do not let it leave your sight. You should also not leave your passport in your hotel room unattended or with the staff of the hotel.
Keep photocopies of your passport and other important documents. If you need a visa for the country that you are traveling through, you should also take a copy of this. A good way to store them is to scan them into your computer and have them stored in your email account so that you can always access them.
Be careful of your security when you are withdrawing money from ATMs or exchanging money at a currency exchange or bank. There are often thieves that wait around these areas looking for tourists to pick pocket or rob. Never count money in public and put it away securely in your money belt as soon as possible.
Replacing lost documents or a stolen United States passport is a headache that you do not need when you are traveling. By using basic security measures at all times you can avoid pasport problems and get on with enjoying your overseas vacation.
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