Travelers urged to keep boarding passes for potential post-flight benefits

A travel expert is urging passengers to hold onto their boarding passes, whether physical or digital, even after they have reached their destination. These documents are more than just a ticket for boarding; they can prove invaluable for resolving a range of issues that may arise after a flight.

One common problem travelers face is incorrect or missing mileage accrual in their airline loyalty accounts. A boarding pass serves as concrete evidence of a completed flight, which can significantly expedite the process of claiming lost miles. This is particularly true for paper boarding passes, as electronic versions on phones can sometimes disappear after landing.

Furthermore, boarding passes are essential when dealing with flight disruptions. If a flight is delayed, canceled, or if luggage goes missing, the boarding pass provides critical information needed to file claims with travel insurance providers or credit card companies that offer travel protection benefits. Having this document readily available can streamline the often complex and frustrating claims process.

The expert also issued a specific warning regarding the disposal of paper boarding passes. The barcode on these passes contains sensitive personal data, including frequent flyer numbers, which could potentially be linked to other personal information. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure that paper boarding passes are destroyed securely, such as by shredding or tearing them thoroughly, once they are no longer needed.