Lost, Squashed or Stolen

Nothing says travel like dragging out your trusty suitcase and packing. Some people employ the ‘stuff and see’ approach, while other methodically roll, fold and stack with surgical precision.

No matter what your packing style, you always want your belongings to arrive with you, in great condition, and at the same time.

Standing at the baggage carousel forlornly, waiting in vain, is every traveller’s worst nightmare, as is opening your suitcase to find things have been broken, squashed, leaked upon or stolen.

If this is your experience, your first call should be to your travel insurance provider. When you take out insurance, take time to ask a few questions. Ask what is covered and under what conditions. Seek specific advice for your destination; are there any potential issues you can prepare for?

Generally, there is provision to claim on travel insurance for lost, stolen or damaged baggage, or the replacement of reasonable essential items if your luggage is delayed.

As a responsible traveller, there are steps you need to take, for your piece of mind and the protection of your belongings.

Do not leave your baggage unattended in airports, hotels or public places. Similarly, take reasonable precautions to maintain the safety of your personal items, cash, banks cards, travel documents and passport. Take as much care of them as they are valuable to you! Fragile and irreplaceable items like electronics, cameras and jewellery are best in your carry on baggage, not your checked baggage.

If you do find things lost, stolen or damaged, report it immediately. Report it to the travel company, tour operator, hotel or transport provider first, so they can document it. If not, contact local authorities for a report. Cancel lost credit cards and call your embassy if your passport goes missing immediately.

Just like when you are at home, don’t leave valuables unattended in a vehicle, public place or in unlocked premises. It is easy to go overseas and feel the rules are different (which they can be), but be more vigilant about security in an unfamiliar place than you wold be at one, not less. Use lockers or safes provided in hotels or accommodation.

Nobody likes complications. If they arise, give as much information as you are able to, as fast as possible to ensure a speedy resolution.