I lost my passport and my flight is tomorrow: What should I do?

Imagine this: you have a flight scheduled for tomorrow, but you've just realized your passport is missing. After searching your house or hotel room thoroughly, you're convinced it's nowhere to be seen. What on earth should you do now? First, take a moment to breathe. Losing your passport is definitely a serious issue, but this guide will help you navigate the next steps, including how to quickly replace it.

What should you do if your passport is missing?

Initially, ensure that you've searched every possible location before taking further action. We've compiled a list of typical hiding spots for lost passports, whether at home or in accommodations like hotels or rentals.

• Travel bags or suitcases
• Pockets of jackets or pants
• Your vehicle (check if it might have fallen out)
• A drawer in your desk
• On your nightstand or behind it
• Under the bed
• Between the cushions of your couch
• Beneath any mail you brought in after returning home
• Inside a safe

You should also ask anyone you live or traveled with if they have seen or relocated your passport.

If you're certain your passport isn't in any of those spots, it's time to reach out to the following places.

• The last airport you passed through while having your passport
• The most recent airline you flew with, in case you left it on the plane
• Your last accommodation
• Any locations you visited where you might have carried your passport, such as a museum or eatery
• Your last taxi or rideshare service

File a report for the lost or stolen passport

If your passport is definitely missing, it's time to report it as lost or stolen to the US Department of State. You can do this in three ways.

• Complete Form DS-64 and Form DS-11 online at travel.state.gov
• Call 1-877-487-2778 (TTY 1-888-874-7793)
• Send Form DS-64 to the address indicated on the form

If your flight is just around the corner, you can request an urgent or emergency passport.

If you're facing an international flight within 72 hours, you might be able to obtain a replacement passport in time. The procedure and timeline will vary based on your location when your passport was lost.

If you are in the US

If you're located in the US, you must apply for a replacement passport in person, rather than by mail or online. This requires making an appointment at one of the passport agencies or centers by calling 1-877-487-2778 (TTY 1-888-874-7793). While there's no guarantee of securing an appointment, it is possible to receive a same-day passport under certain conditions. Keep in mind that appointments may only be available at a passport office or center in another US city, which means you'll need to arrange transportation.

If you're overseas

If you're outside the country, reach out to the nearest US embassy or consulate; you can find a complete list of locations at usembassy.gov. US embassies and consulates can issue emergency passports to facilitate your return home.

What if obtaining a replacement passport isn't an option?

If you're unable to obtain a replacement passport, you'll need to adjust your travel plans. International air travel requires a passport. Contact your airline as soon as possible to inquire about changing your flight; you might be able to postpone it by a few days. If canceling your trip is necessary, ensure you do it before your flight departs. Depending on your fare class, you might receive e-credit for the canceled flight, which you can use to book a new flight later. Additionally, check with your travel insurance or credit card insurance policy regarding refunds for any pre-arranged activities, including hotels and tours.

Our recommendations for preventing passport loss in the future

• Always store your passport in the same location, whether at home or while staying in hotels or vacation rentals.
• Use a trackable passport holder, like one designed to fit an Apple AirTag or Tile tracker.
• During your journey, designate a specific spot in your bag for your passport and check it regularly.
• If you store your passport in a hotel safe, also place one of your shoes inside. It's unlikely you'll leave with just one shoe, which will remind you to check the safe.

Tips for safeguarding your passport while traveling

When on the go, always store your passport in a secure place, like an interior jacket pocket, a money belt, or an anti-theft bag. Ideally, keep your passport locked up in the safe at your accommodation once you arrive at your destination. Don’t forget to set a reminder on your phone to check the safe before checking out!

Final Thoughts

If you've misplaced your passport and have an urgent flight, contact the US Department of State to report your lost passport. Then, you can try to obtain a replacement before your departure, whether you are at home or abroad. If you're unable to secure a replacement, you might need to delay or cancel your international travel plans.

How Dinogo curates this guide

I am a freelance travel writer with ten years of experience. To compile this guide, I explored emergency passport options on the websites of the US Department of State and various US embassies. Given my frequent travels abroad, my passport is a vital asset, and I've included some personal tips on how to keep it secure.

Common questions regarding lost passports