Export and Import Your Vault
Every user can export their entire vault as an encrypted, password-protected backup file (.tdvault) and import it on any device. This walkthrough shows each step with explanations.
Why export and import?
Export-import ensures your data is portable and you are never locked into the app. Whether you are switching devices, setting up a new phone, or simply want a backup copy you control, the export-import process preserves everything exactly as it is.
The exported file is encrypted with the same security as your on-device vault. Only you can decrypt it.
Step-by-step walkthrough
Open Settings and navigate to Export
Launch Travel Document Vault and tap the Settings icon (gear symbol) at the bottom of the screen. Scroll down until you see the Backup and Data section. Tap Export Vault.
Review what will be exported
The app shows a summary: total profiles, total documents, and total attachments. This confirms that everything you want is included. Tap Continue or Confirm Export.
Wait for encryption to complete
The app encrypts all your data into a single backup file (.tdvault). On a typical vault with hundreds of documents, this takes a few seconds. Do not close the app during this step.
Choose a destination and save
Your system file picker opens. Choose where to save the file: iCloud Drive, Google Drive, Dropbox, or your computer. We recommend an encrypted service or offline storage for maximum security.
Transfer the file to your new device (if importing on another phone)
If you are importing on a different device, make the exported file accessible there. Upload to a shared drive, email it to yourself, or use AirDrop. The file size is typically 50-500 MB depending on your vault size and attachment count.
On the target device, open Settings and tap Import Vault
Launch Travel Document Vault on the device where you want to import. Go to Settings, scroll to Backup and Data, and tap Import Vault. The app asks you to select the exported backup file (.tdvault).
Select the exported file and confirm
Navigate to where you saved the exported vault file, select it, and confirm. The app decrypts and imports all profiles, documents, and attachments. This process takes a few seconds.
Verify all data is present
After import, check the Profiles tab to confirm all profiles appear. Open a few documents to verify attachments are intact. The import process is non-destructive and merges with any existing data.
Important notes
- Non-destructive: Import adds to existing data. If you already have profiles on the target device, imported profiles are added without deleting existing ones.
- Round-trip fidelity: Everything is preserved exactly: document names, dates, expiry alerts, custom colours, attachments, and notes.
- Encrypted throughout: The exported file is encrypted. Only the Recovery Code (cloud backup) or the import process can decrypt it.
- Backup best practice: Keep your exported file in a secure location. Delete it after a successful import if you prefer, or keep it as an offline backup.
Disclaimer: Export-import is designed for data portability. Keep exported files secure. Do not share the exported backup with anyone, as it contains all your encrypted documents and attachments.
Ready to export your vault?
Vault Export and Import are free for everyone. Pro adds cloud backup, unlimited profiles, combined PDF export, and more. One-time purchase, no subscription.