I’ve always felt that travel is my lifeblood, with every experience writing a new chapter in my personal narrative.

This summer, I went to New York, the city that never sleeps.

I always had the feeling I would get there some day and finally it became reality.

It was all I could have imagined—exciting to explore the busy streets and well-known attractions with family and friends.

I had no idea that our journey would take an unexpected turn.

A beautiful night of watching the Copa America finals at The Vessel suddenly turned into desperation when a bag containing my friends’ passports disappeared.

They had been stolen.

We searched the area to see if someone had it.

Then we went to the police station and attempted to file a report.

The police department suggested us to go the lost and found department at The Vessel. So, we returned the next day.

Nothing had been turned in.

Next, we searched for the Nepali embassy, which we learned was in Washington D.C., but we were able to find the office of the Consul General of Nepal in New York.

They helped us with the passport renewals, but were unable to renew the F1 visas, which would need to be updated in Nepal.

These things can happen to anyone, but we learned some things in the process.

It’s unnecessary to take your passport when traveling in the U.S. You don’t need it.

According to the Transportation Security Administration, even when flying, a driver license will do.

One of my friends took their passport because their driver license was expired.

The other person’s license was still being processed from the renewal.

According to the TSA, an expired ID can be used up to a year after expiration when flying.

An expired driver license, however, will need to be renewed and up to date before driving a motor vehicle.

If you are pulled over, you can receive a ticket.

Some additional precautions you might consider while traveling include using a cross-body bag while in transit.

If you must take your passport, leave it in a hotel room safe or leave it at home.

If your ID is lost, airlines can check your identification online and admit you to the flight.

Get there early. Don’t be late.

New York was one of the most interesting places I have ever visited, although we had a bumpy ride.

In order to have a smooth trip, do your homework in advance.

Determine where you want to go and what you want to see.

New York has a lot to offer, but like all big cities, always be aware of your surroundings and stay safe.