Travel Safety Tips and Advice

We are normally at our most relaxed when we are on holiday or travelling, unfortunately this is usually when disaster strikes. In our tranquil state we let our guard down, and increase the risk to our possessions and personal safety. Here we have created tips and advice for keeping safe whilst abroad;

Your Personal Safety whilst on holiday

• The number one rule is always use your common sense, if your gut tells you something is wrong, then trust it. It is always better to be safe than sorry!
• Try to avoid dangerous or risky areas.
• Do not wear expensive jewellery.
• Wear and use money belts.
• Before answering the door check through the spy hole.
• Leave a television or radio on when leaving your room.
• Take your room key with you; do not leave it at reception.
• Always use bolts or deadlocks on doors.
• Carry small change for drinks and busses and keep smaller notes or coins in a separate pocket, this should mean that you don’t have to get your purse or wallet out on the street.
• Research the area you are visiting, find out if there been an increase in tourists muggings recently, or if it is generally recommended as a safe place to visit.

If you do face a holiday disaster, here are our tips to rectify the situation;

• If you are injured or need medical attention, immediately visit your local hospital. It may sound obvious but many people choose to wait until they return home, when the injuries have worsened. Notify your travel insurer as soon as possible so they can help with medical expenses.
• If your possessions have been stolen, report the incident to the local police and obtain a statement from them about the loss. This is not always easy, but you will usually need a police report if you want to claim on your travel insurance.
• If your bank cards are stolen, you’ll need to phone your bank and card issuers to stop any access to your funds.
• If your mobile phone is stolen, phone your mobile phone company to stop your account.
• Should your passport be stolen, your travel insurer will offer advice on how and where you can get a replacement from.
• If your tickets are stolen, your tour rep, airline or travel agent will help you replace tickets.

When you get home

• Check bank and credit card statements carefully. Raise any charges you don’t recognise with your card issuer(s) immediately.
• If you were taking a course of anti-malaria tablets make sure you complete the course.
• Remember to tell your doctor that you have been on holiday if you become ill on your return.
• Make sure you put any complaint about your holiday in writing to the holiday company within 28 days.
• Report any claim to insurers as soon as possible.