A travel expert is urging Brits to understand a minor passport detail could ruin their holiday – and it’s not the expiry date. Overlooking this one thing could lead to chaos at the airport, and spoil a trip away.
According to Dr Mohanjeet Brar, managing director of Gamewatchers Safaris: “Your passport doesn’t just need to be in date – it needs enough blank pages. While most travellers remember to check expiry dates, blank pages for entry stamps and visas are often forgotten. Airlines can refuse boarding, and border officials can deny entry, leaving Brits stranded before the holiday even begins.” Some countries require entire pages of passports for stamps, for example Madagascar and South Africa require three empty pages for entry. Germany, Russia, India, and Singapore all require two empty pages. France, Japan, Mexico, Morocco, and Australia all require one empty page. Dr Brar went on: “Couples often plan multi-country trips without checking page requirements. It’s one of those tiny administrative details that has huge consequences.”
Consider a jumbo passport: The UK offers passports with more pages (48 instead of 34), ideal for frequent travellers or those planning multiple-entry visas.
Plan around visas: Some countries’ visas take up an entire page — factor that in to avoid being denied entry.
- Work with experts: A reputable tour operator familiar with African logistics can save hours of stress and ensure paperwork meets local requirements.
“Blank pages might seem trivial, but they’re essential for a smooth trip,” says Dr Brar. “Checking now can prevent a minor mistake from turning into a major holiday disaster.”
This story originally appeared on Express.co.uk
