So many things can go wrong during a trip, so it is amazing how smoothly things do go most of the time. Losing a passport definitely reigns supreme on the list of inconveniences, as that little document allows you to do most of things you need when you are away from home. However, letting your pasport pages become ripped or otherwise damaged can be equally problematic. Keeping a few things in mind about these pages can help you ensure a smooth trip.

The rigors of traveling can often cause wear and tear on passports. Sometimes the rain gets to them. Other times travelers bend them out of shape of tatter the pages by storing them in tight places in order to protect their documents. Either way, a ratty passport may raise flags in the minds of border officials, which will slow down your passage and possibly make it unpleasant. When your passport is still in good shape, look for a passport cover, preferably one that is waterproof.

Of course, just crossing borders fills up your pages. Each country stamps in a visa or entry and exist stamps. Eventually, you will run out of pages, which could bar you from getting a visa or entry into countries that require more pages. There are a few tactics to avoid this problem if you apply them early and often.

The easiest way to maximize the use of your pages is to point out where you would like the official to stamp upon entry. This can be a sticky business and might earn you some glares. However, if you politely approach officials in most countries and briefly explain that you are running out of pages, they usually will. If they don’t, just drop it, as these are not people you want to alienate. Over the long run, though, avoiding stamps that take up two boxes can really make the most of the space you have.

If you do see you are running out of pages, a quick stop by any embassy should remedy the situation. Most embassies will insert additional pages for free or a small fee. This service can usually be done during the same day. Make sure to do this well before you travel so you do not get in a bind. Depending on the country, there is usually a limit to the number of pages that can be added, so check with your embassy.

More than a simple travel document, these stamps often serve as instant souvenirs for travelers. However, if you lose or damage your passport, your memories and travel records will be lost. Make copies before you leave so you will have those records no matter what happens.

Also, be aware that damaged passports probably will not be returned to you. This can also result in losing the pages that you spent so much time acquiring. So, make a copy before you submit it in exchange for a new passport. Do not remove the pages, as this will usually be considered tampering with an official document.

Attention to detail often separates a successful venture from a problematic one. The same thing goes for travel. While U S passport pages do not usually cause any problems, you should look them over before setting out. Then, your U S passport can open doors instead of slowing you down.