Carry Passport or Not?
 

I have read several travel books on Hong Kong, and I am going there in a couple of days. My question is should I carry my passport around with me while I stay in Hong Kong? <BR><BR>The travel guides say no, they say to lock it up in the Hotel's safe and carry a photocopy and a picture ID with me at all times. But I have had several people tell me that I should always carry it in case I'm stopped.<BR><BR>Tho I have to admit I can't think of any reason I would be stopped. Then I also think that most of these people that say to carry it haven't read any travel guides.<BR><BR>What do you all think? Carry it or just a photocopy?<BR><BR>Thanks,<BR>Steve

There is no need to carry your passport with you in Hong Kong. I always lock my passport along with my plane ticket in the hotel safe. I can't be bother to cary all that stuff and I can't imagine why you would be stop in Hong Kong.

Steve, I was in Hong Kong in October for the first time - very safe place to be.<BR><BR>Agree with the above message - leave your passport at the hotel. A copy is fine.<BR><BR>Just bring plenty of money - it's an expensive town!<BR><BR>Don't miss the Star Ferry - very easy to use, inexpensive, and a great way to see the island.<BR>

Leave your passport in the safe.<BR><BR>My understanding is that the Chinease government has tried to crackdown on immigration into HK from the mainland. I saw a few individuals that were stopped by the police and asked for identification. Perhaps that is what people are refering to.

<BR>I was in Hong Kong last year, no need to carry your passport. <BR><BR>Don't miss "The Peak", you take a train up a mountain and you have this incredible view of Hong Kong, it's worth it.<BR><BR>http://www.thepeak.com.hk<BR><BR>Another place is Po Lin Monastery on Lantau Island. Really impressive temple. The Buddha statue is high-up, after you get there you have a great view of the surroundings.<BR><BR>http://www.orientaltravel.com.hk/pro...tery_Tai_O.htm

I, too, keep my passport, tickets, etc, in the hotel safe. If, however, you want to cash a traveler's check, you'll generally need your passport rather than just a copy. I use ATMs rather than traveler's checks, so it isn't a problem, but do be aware that they will ask for the passport if you are cashing a traveler's check.

Yes, do leave it in the hotel safe. Do carry a copy with you at all times and I also make a copy for my travel companion to carry. I then carry a copy of theirs. We were there in early June and the people crossing the street are shoulder to shoulder. We did not have a problem with pickpocket or such. I suppose it could happen as it can anyplace. I would leave the original in the safe in case I would loose it. Photocopy is always better and if you SHOULD need it, it can always be produced later. Have Fun!

Re cashing traveler's checks and needing passport: All they really need is your passport number. I have a reduced size copy of my passport that I laminated and carry in my wallet. Anytime anyone needs my passport I have shown this to them to get the number and have never had a problem. They are in business and want your business and this makes the paperwork "official" and your number is correct.

With credit cards and ATMs I don't understand why anybody would cary traveler's checks any more?