Travel experts have warned holidaymakers to check their passports thoroughly before heading to the airport, as seemingly minor issues could lead to being denied boarding. A spokesperson from Travelbag highlighted that damage, even if it appears trivial, can render a passport invalid due to the secure construction of the document. They advised keeping passports in pristine condition and out of sight to avoid problems.
One common oversight is the expiry date. Many countries require a passport to be valid for at least six months beyond the date of travel, so it is essential to verify both the passport's expiry and the destination's specific rules well in advance. The '10-year rule' is another factor: since the UK left the EU, passports issued more than ten years ago are no longer accepted by most countries, meaning travellers may need to renew even if their passport has not yet expired.
Frequent flyers should also ensure they have enough blank pages for entry and exit stamps. Some countries require several empty pages, and a full passport could result in being turned away. Additionally, parents must remember that children's passports under 16 are valid for only five years, not the standard ten for adults, so checking their validity is crucial.
Travelbag emphasised that any damage—from water exposure to torn pages—could lead to refusal of travel. They recommend replacing a damaged passport immediately, as the internal security features may be compromised even if the damage looks minor. Planning ahead and checking these details can save travellers from last-minute disappointment at the airport.
