Travel Wise

Holidays should be about taking it easy. But what happens if you are a victim of crime abroad? As long as you follow the correct procedure, Direct Line’s Travel Insurance Policy can help to minimise the stress, providing the reassurance you need when you travel abroad and dealing with your claim quickly and efficiently…

Prepare to relax

While figures for foreign theft are on the increase, more than one in seven British holidaymakers still travels without adequate insurance, turning thousands of ‘relaxing trips’ into complete traumas every year. While taking out
Direct Line Travel Insurance can’t reduce levels of crime, but the cost of a single trip or annual travel insurance policy is worth every penny for the peace of mind and advice it provides if you are unfortunately robbed while you’re abroad. If you really want a stress-free holiday, preparation is key.

Get off to a good start

It’s no good finding the perfect bikini if it’s lost or stolen before you even hit the beach. If you’ve spent time shopping and packing for your holiday, the first thing you want to ensure is that your bag arrives at your destination exactly as you packed it and in one piece. Direct Line Travel Insurance policy will pay up to £1,500 for most personal possessions that are damaged, lost or stolen in transit. Certain valuables are only covered if they are with you at all times, so don’t put them in your checked-in suitcase. Some items are also excluded, such as perishable goods and some sports items, and bear in mind that there is an excess charge.

Make sure that suitcases and bags are locked and labelled adequately and that you have read the conditions of carriage – you can find these online for most airlines and travel companies. With Direct Line Insurance estimating average holiday theft claims at over £200 – with 1 in 10 over £500 – it’s definitely worth doing your homework first and finding out what is and isn’t covered.

While you’re away

All Direct Line Travel Insurance policies cover personal money – up to £500 per person with a cash limit of £250. However, it’s your responsibility to keep money and valuable documents, such as your passport, secure for the duration of your trip. Money, gadgets and jewellery are the most frequently stolen possessions, so make full use of hotel safety deposit boxes, never leave bags unattended on beaches or in cars and invest in a money belt so that your valuables aren’t easy-pickings for opportunistic pickpockets and thieves. Take bank cards and cheques rather than cash, as these at least can be replaced. Remember to keep a separate note of security numbers, passport details and emergency telephone numbers. If you do need to make a claim, you may be asked to prove that you took the necessary steps to prevent the claim in the first place.

Be prepared

Read up on the crime protocol of the country you’re visiting. Your Direct Line Travel Insurance policy requires you to report any theft directly to the local police within 24 hours of discovery. In the event that you are unable to contact the police, a report should be made either to your tour representative, accommodation provider or carrier – for example, the airline or ferry company. You should also be prepared to explain why you could not report the loss to the police. Passport theft or loss should also be reported to the nearest British Consulate or Embassy. If you need to make a claim you will need to provide a record of the crime and proof of receipts.

Know before you go…

www.fco.gov.uk
www.ips.gov.uk
www.victimsupport.com

Click here to find out more about our Travel Insurance policy.