Whilst you might assume all that's required for travel is a valid passport and boarding pass, numerous countries actually enforce more stringent regulations. A single passport mistake could result in being turned away from certain destinations, even after spending more than 24 hours getting there.

Dr Mohanjeet Brar, MD of Gamewatchers Safaris, cautioned: "Your passport doesn't just need to be in date - it needs enough blank pages.

"The Namibian entry stamp alone takes almost an entire page, and if you need an extension permit, that's another page. While most travellers remember to check expiry dates, blank pages for entry stamps and visas are often forgotten."

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Failing to meet these criteria could mean being denied boarding or, worse still, being refused entry to the country upon arrival.

Countries that require extra empty pages in passports include:

• Mozambique – Two blank pages


• Zambia – Two blank pages


• South Africa – Two blank pages


• Madagascar – Two blank pages


• Namibia – Three blank pages

Nevertheless, Dr Brar advises having at least one additional page beyond the minimum stipulations.

"Blank pages might seem trivial, but they're essential for a smooth trip," says Dr Brar. "Checking now can prevent a minor mistake from turning into a major holiday disaster."

Alongside this warning, the expert has shared a number of other tips for ensuring easy travel:

• Check your passport and its blank pages as soon as possible.


• Consider a jumbo passport if you're a frequent traveller, as it has 48 pages rather than the usual 34.


• Plan around visas - some countries' visas take up a full page, so it helps to be aware of this before travelling.


• Work with experts when travelling further afield. A UK-based tour operator familiar with African logistics can save hours of stress and ensure paperwork meets local requirements.