Cover & Carry

Canadian guide to passport and document covers

A Step-by-Step Method for Selecting and Using a Cover

Choosing a cover is easier when decisions come in a sensible order. This sequence moves from what you carry to how you will handle it at an airport or border.

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Five decisions in a useful order

Take notes as you go; each step narrows the next.

  1. Inventory your documents

    Gather the passport and any cards that travel with it. Note which items you need at hand and which can stay zipped in a bag.

  2. Measure and compare

    Measure width, height and thickness in millimetres. A passport with stamps and visas can be thicker than a new one, so leave a little room.

  3. Pick a material for your conditions

    Consider cold, rain, sweat and rough bag interiors. Smooth finishes wipe clean easily, while textured ones may hide scuffs but hold dirt.

  4. Evaluate extra claims

    If a holder mentions RFID blocking or water resistance, look for a clear explanation of what is meant and treat vague wording cautiously.

  5. Rehearse the handover

    Practise sliding the passport out with one hand. At a check you may be asked to remove it, so the cover should never slow you down.