Consumer champion Martin Lewis has issued a critical alert to UK families planning holidays abroad, warning that a commonly overlooked passport rule could lead to devastating travel disruptions and financial losses.
The Money Saving Expert founder highlighted a crucial detail that many travellers miss: many European countries require your passport to be valid for at least three months beyond your intended departure date. This rule isn't just for the duration of your stay—it's a strict entry requirement.
The Hidden Rule That's Catching Thousands Out
"I'm furious about this," Lewis stated, explaining that this isn't a Brexit-related change but a long-standing regulation that airlines often fail to emphasize during the booking process. The financial guru's warning comes after numerous families faced the heartbreak of being denied boarding despite having what they believed were valid passports.
The problem is particularly acute for family holidays, where the financial impact of cancelled trips can run into thousands of pounds. Lewis emphasized that travel insurance typically won't cover expenses if you're denied boarding due to invalid documentation.
How to Check Your Passport Validity
To avoid becoming another statistic, travellers should:
- Check your passport's issue and expiry dates carefully
- Ensure it has at least three months validity remaining from your planned return date
- Verify specific country requirements, as some destinations have different rules
- Renew at least six months before expiry to avoid last-minute complications
Lewis's intervention has already sparked action, with many travellers now double-checking their documents and sharing their close calls on social media. The message is clear: when it comes to passport validity, don't assume—verify.
