International travelers are no longer the only ones using their passports at the airport. With new ID requirements now in place, plenty of domestic travelers are using their passports in lieu of a Real ID. That means it’s more important than ever to keep your passport safe—and there’s one passport mistake you probably don’t know you’re making.

When you pack your passport in your carry-on luggage, you’re seemingly tucking the document away where you can’t lose it. In reality, this is a big mistake that can cause major headaches.

When traveling internationally, it’s essential to keep your passport on you at all times. If you pack your passport in your carry-on and later need to gate-check your bag, you won’t be able to retrieve your passport before you reach immigration. This could result in being denied entry to your destination.

Why You Shouldn’t Put Your Passport in Your Carry-on If you have to gate-check your bag, you’ll be separated from your passport at immigration.

Thieves may target travelers with suitcases, even stealing carry-ons in the airport and nearby areas.

Fellow passengers can steal your passport from the plane’s overhead compartment.

Plus, many travelers report experiencing theft upon landing at their destination. Whether it’s at baggage claim or while heading to your hotel, someone can easily snag your luggage with your passport still inside.

Even if you’re traveling domestically, you shouldn’t keep your passport in your carry-on. Travelers frequently need to stow their carry-on luggage in an overhead bin far from their seat, and in this case, you won’t be able to keep an eye on your belongings. Sadly, in-flight theft happens, and your passport can easily be stolen mid-flight.

There’s one easy alternative to packing your passport in your carry-on, and as expert travelers, we always recommend it to our family and friends: Wear a crossbody bag, belt bag, or money belt. These simple bags keep your wallet, passport, phone, and other valuables close to your body and safe from thieves. Keep reading to shop 11 reliable travel bags ahead of your next trip—from $9 at Amazon.

Maxtop Large Crossbody Bag

Amazon

More than 20,000 shoppers purchased this crossbody bag in the past month, and plenty of satisfied reviewers report using it to secure their valuables while traveling internationally. It features four separate pockets to organize your belongings, including a hidden back pocket that’s ideal for your passport.

Alpha Keeper Hidden Money Belt

Amazon

If you prefer a traditional money belt to conceal beneath your clothes, this one from Alpha Keeper is “comfortable to wear” and keeps items “secure from pickpockets.” It is slim enough to be discreet under clothing, and the length is adjustable to suit every traveler. Plus, it has two zippered pockets and one hidden compartment to secure your valuables.

Pander 2L Belt Bag

Amazon

This trendy option from Pander looks so much like a shopper-loved version that’s much more expensive, and one shopper says it has the “exact same feel and quality,” too. The bag has a water-resistant nylon exterior that’s durable enough for any itinerary, along with two zippered pockets. One of the exterior compartments is even hidden at the back of the bag for extra peace of mind.

Bostanten Leather Crossbody Bag

Amazon

This fashion-forward option will secure your passport while complementing your summer travel outfits. It has a vegan leather exterior, gold hardware, and an adjustable woven strap. There are two exterior zip pockets, along with internal compartments to keep your belongings organized.

Simptech Mini Sling Bag

Amazon

Sling bags are another popular option for travelers, and reviewers rave about this one from Simptech. One shopper used this bag on a seven-day trip to Europe and had plenty of room for their family’s passports, cash, and more. They add that the conveniently-placed buckle at the front of the bag ensures pickpockets aren’t able to unlatch the bag from behind.

Isabelle Leather Crossbody Bag

Amazon

You’ll wear this stylish leather crossbody all summer long—in and out of the airport. It features three external pockets, along with internal pockets. The adjustable strap can be worn as a crossbody or shoulder bag, making this a versatile purse for any occasion.

Travelon Anti-theft Crossbody Bag

Amazon

This bag is designed to defend against pickpockets, so it features multiple unique safety features. The strap and bag are slash-resistant to prevent thieves from cutting the bag off your body, and it has RFID-blocking passport and card slots for extra security. Plus, its classic black design is versatile enough to pair with any travel look.

Bostanten Leather Sling Bag

Amazon

This stylish sling bag has several zippered compartments, so you won’t be rummaging through an unorganized bag at the airport. It has three front pockets, along with a hidden back pocket that’s perfect for hiding your passport. It even has card slots inside to organize your IDs and credit cards. We love the summery look of this bag, which comes in 17 vegan leather colors.

Banelu Small Sling Bag

Amazon

Over 10,000 shoppers purchased this low-key sling bag last month, which also happens to be the least expensive option on our list. One reviewer used this bag on a trip to Italy and said they “often forgot” they were wearing it thanks to its comfortable, barely-there feel. They added that the secure pockets and discreet size gave them peace of mind.

Inicat Leather Sling Bag

Amazon

One shopper calls this the “perfect purse for international travel.” It has a gorgeous vegan leather exterior that looks expensive, as well as stylish gold hardware. The small sling bag also includes two large compartments that are large enough to hold all the essentials “without feeling bulky or cumbersome.”

Travelon Anti-theft Metro Convertible Crossbody Bag

Amazon

Travelon bags have some of the best security features on the market, and this convertible bag is no exception. Its body and straps are slash-proof to ensure pickpockets can’t remove the bag, and it also has zipper pulls that lock for security. As if that’s not impressive enough, this bag even has RFID-blocking technology to protect against cyberattacks. Wear this bag as a crossbody or belt bag for a comfortable, hands-free fit.

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