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10 tips to avoid crime and scams on holiday

It's not always sunshine and blue skies...new research shows Aussies are running into hot water when on holiday with more than half of travellers (60%) being exposed to petty crime and scams on their travels.

It’s not always sunshine and blue skies…new research shows Aussies are running into hot water when on holiday with more than half of travellers (60%) being exposed to petty crime and scams on their travels.

Research conducted by Southern Cross Travel Insurance shows almost a third (31%) of unassuming travellers were cheated out of hundreds of dollars.

Over 1 in 6 (16%) were conned out of over $500, with a small number losing over $1,000 of their holiday funds.

More Aussie tourists ran into trouble in Indonesia/Bali than any other country. Thailand, also popular with travellers for its idyllic beaches, carefree atmosphere and lively nightlife had a high crime rate, with the US, Hong Kong, China and Fiji also placing high on the tourist crime map.

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Carry a travel money belt instead of a backpack – you’ll be less of a target to pickpockets.

Overall, travellers most commonly experienced theft, dishonesty and untrustworthy services whilst travelling overseas. 15% of Aussies were stung converting currency, whilst 7% were victims of bankcard fraud. Friends became foes for some unlucky travellers, befriended by someone who then demanded money, leaving them high and dry.

Southern Cross Travel Insurance has put together a list of safety tips for travellers to avoid their holiday spirit being dampened this festive season. Please find below and do let us know if you need a quote or any other information.

 

10 tips to avoid crime on holiday

  1. Carry a travel money belt instead of a backpack – you’ll be less of a target to pickpockets.
  2. Leave the bling behind – expensive items, and even expensive looking items, may attract the watchful eye of thieves.
  3. Avoid running into trouble by exercising the same caution overseas as you would at home – e.g. don’t jump into a car with a stranger, avoid walking alone at night and take measures to safeguard your items.
  4. Familiarise yourself with the local currency and be wary of vendors who might try to short-change you.
  5. Keep your passport safe and do not give it to anyone or leave it as a deposit for a jet ski or bike hire – it is the most valuable thing you take on holiday!
  6. Be mindful of where you leave your items, even if right next to you. Normal places to put your items in Australia are often targeted overseas by thieves. Avoid leaving them unattended on the beach or in other public places such as bars and restuarants.
  7. Avoid using unlicensed taxis. Use licensed, marked taxis, and note down the name of the company and driver. Be wary of taxi drivers who might try and drive away with your items still in the boot.
  8. Be mindful of distractions thieves use such as kids trying to sell items or people telling you there is something in your hair or on your top.
  9. Never leave valuable items (e.g. cash, jewellery, electronics) in checked luggage or stored away from you when using a transport provider.
  10. Bus stops and buses (especially overnight ones) are a common target for thieves. Secure valuable items where possible by keeping them on your person and using padlocks on your bags.

Have you ever been a victim of crime whilst travelling?