It comes as the Foreign Office and travel experts are reminding travellers leaving the UK to take two essential documents.
As part of the Foreign Office travel checklist, Brits jetting off are told to “take an extra form of photo ID with you, other than your passport”.
Now, experts have added to the conversation as to why it’s key that you should always take two forms of ID when travelling overseas.
You can see the full Foreign Office travel checklist here.
Why you should always take two forms of ID when travelling abroad
Travel expert and Head of Public Affairs at Holiday Extras, Seamus McCauley, shares that not only is it crucial to have two forms of photo ID, but it also offers peace of mind.
Explaining: “When you’re heading off on holiday, the last thing you want is extra hassle if your passport goes missing.
“That’s why the Foreign Office suggests packing a second form of photo ID, like your driving licence, along with your passport.
“If the worst happens, having a spare ID can make it much easier to check into hotels, hire a car or get the help you need from local authorities.
“At Holiday Extras, we know that a few simple steps can make all the difference to a stress-free trip.
“Keeping a backup ID and copies of your key documents means you’ll have peace of mind if anything goes wrong – leaving you to get on with enjoying your holiday.”
It’s not just Holiday Extras that are reminding Brits always to take two forms of ID, as Kate Staniforth, Head of Marketing at Travel Republic, explains why the Foreign Office encourages travellers to take two forms of ID.
Sharing: “The UK Foreign Office travel checklist specifically recommends taking an extra form of photo ID alongside your passport for this reason.
“While a valid British passport is generally sufficient for entry into most countries, local rules, hotels, or authorities may sometimes require additional proof.”
What types of photo ID are acceptable to use?
Kate shares that the following types of photo ID can be used when travelling abroad:
- A UK photo card driving licence (full or provisional)
- Biometric residence permit
- National identity card from an EEA country
- Military ID cards (e.g., MOD Form 90, Armed Forces Veteran Card)
- Proof of age cards with the PASS hologram (CitizenCard, Young Scot Card, Validate UK Card, NUS Totum Card)
- Government-issued passes such as a Blue Badge, Older Person’s Bus Pass, Disabled Person’s Bus Pass, Oyster 60+ Card, or Freedom Pass
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Travel expert Kate also had some handy advice to share with travellers when it came to using two IDs: “One top tip is to also have a form of photo ID saved on your phone, whether that be a photo of your driving licence or a scan of your Blue Badge saved to your files.
“It means that if all else fails, you have a digital version you can share in the meantime.
“However, it’s always important to confirm the identification rules for your destination in advance to ensure a smooth journey and avoid any hiccups whilst there.”
