Martin Lewis reveals what border control are actually looking for on your passport

No one wants to arrive at the airport for a much-needed holiday only to discover there's something wrong with their . Martin Lewis has shared important travel checks all Brits must be aware of weeks before heading abroad. The Money Saving Expert highlighted two crucial checks that Brits must make and they all relate to the dates on your passport.

Lewis also continues his travel advice regarding having the right documents before heading off and that if not done, it could mean a ruined holiday. Speaking on an episode of Money Show, Lewis explained: "Now, I need to say something very important to everybody. Border control and flight checks are getting more stringent."

Lewis continued: "There is an immigration issue going on around the world, and that means countries are getting stricter on who they let in.

"So, you need to be more diligent with your checks."

Checking your expiry dates on your passport is your first and foremost essential travel tip, says Lewis, further adding that if anyone has less than six months left on it, it could mean big problems when checking in.

That's because a number of countries have strong rules when it comes to passport validity with China, Thailand, Australia and the United Arab Emirates all insisting passengers must have a passport that's valid for at least six months from your entry date.

For European and Schengen countries, passengers must have a passport that's valid for at least three months after their planned return date.

Travel experts warn however, that even when having a passport that's valid for seven months or longer, problems may still arise and you could be denied entry if you do not meet another essential rule.

"If your passport is over 10 years old, many countries won't let you in," warned Lewis.

"Now, how can it be over 10 years old? Because it used to be that when you renewed, if you had any spare time on your old passport, they could add that on top.

"So, you might have... 10 years, 10 months, and that can bar you too. So, you need to do both of those checks.

"Now, if you have done those checks, if there is a 'yes' to either of those, then the safest thing is to renew before you go."

A passport must have been issued less than 10 years before the holiday departure date when travelling to a number of nations, including many European countries.

The most affordable way to obtain a passport is online through the Government's website, costing £12.50 and typically takes roughly three weeks, although it may take longer if additional information or an interview is required.