99TravelSafe.com
33 – In Case of Theft and Loss During Travel
The Website For The Smart and Savvy Traveler
TRY to keep valuables in the hotel safe.
If anything is lost or stolen, report it immediately to the local police. Make sure you get an accident report number or similar document as proof that you have reported the loss.
On package holidays, also report the theft/loss to the hotel management and/or the travel representative.
If a bag is lost or stolen at the airport, report it at the time. Get a receipt from the airline or baggage handler in the event of loss or damage.
Take the policy with you on holiday, the policy should tell you exactly what to do in the event of theft or loss, what you are covered for plus details of who to call in an emergency.
Keep records of expensive items you take.
If you are planning to take expensive jewelry or a costly camera, make sure you have a picture of it at home along with any receipts.
One of the most common disputes between policyholders and insurers is over the actual existence of the item and what it cost to buy.
Having proof helps.
Before you leave home:
-- Check the insurance on your camcorders, laptop, and/or digital camera. It's often possible to separately insure these items for a small cost.
-- Consider taking along some travelers checks. Automated tellers may be a more convenient way to access money; but traveler's checks are like insured cash.
-- Make photocopies of your passports and visas; this will reduce your hassles if these documents disappear.
When possible on your trip, leave passports, tickets, etc. in the safe at your lodgings. Even modest-style accommodations frequently offer this service.
Also minimize your risk by keeping some cash and an extra credit card somewhere other than your main bag or purse.
Husbands and wives should both carry their own cash and credit cards.
If you're loaded with a diaper bag, camcorder bag, bag with snacks, etc., you can easily lose track of your belongings!
Consider keeping your money in a mini-purse or pouch that never leaves your body.
Even better while traveling: for major valuables (large denomination bills, passports, etc.) use special lightweight travel pouches that are concealed beneath your clothes and are available in any travel store.
Be aware of common scams, like one person distracts you (maybe even spilling his/her food or drink right on you!) while a second person plucks your valuables.
A parent busy with small kids is all too apt to forget a purse or wallet in a restaurant. Be Careful!
Be especially vigilant when you're being jostled in a crowd. Thieves take advantage of such situations.
"Zero deductible" means that if your item is stolen, you will pay zero dollars towards the cost of a replacement. Otherwise, the "deductible" (i.e. the amount that you pay toward the new item) can be as high as $500.
After reporting missing items to the police, report the loss or theft of
-- Travelers checks to the nearest agent of the issuing company.
-- Credit cards to the issuing company.
-- Airline tickets to the airline or travel agent.
-- Passport to your nearest embassy or consulate.
Always remember to:
-- Not to dress in a very expensive or flashy dress during travel or you can become a target
-- Items not necessary for the day’s activities should remain secured in your hotel safe, and it’s wiser to carry copies rather than original documents
-- Leaving your phone or other valuables on the table in a cafe, restaurant etc. invites theft.
-- Keep your phone and other items secured in your pocket or bag
-- Wear your bag across your body, not hanging over a shoulder
-- Keep away from strangers, do not be distracted
-- Use an RFID-blocking wallet to secure your credit cards and personal identification from ELECTRONIC pickpockets
-- Place your wallet in your front pocket or under clothing or use a money belt
-- Walk away from the curb and against the direction of traffic, keep your bag on the side away from the street can prevent swift thefts.
-- Use anti-theft bags made from slash-resistant materials that cannot be easily slashed or cut