Travel scams

Sun, sea and scams

Southern Cross Travel Insurance survey reveals how crime affects us on holiday.

• 60% of people have encountered a crime whilst travelling overseas.
• 15% have been ripped off converting currency.
• 21% have been deliberately given incorrect change.
• 7% have had a bank card duplicated or stolen.
• 5% have been mugged or robbed and a further 5% have been pick-pocketed.
• 38% of travellers stated that crime ruined part, or all, of their holiday.
• 14% of people had to cover the losses themselves, because they had no travel insurance.

 

Where travellers encounter crime

• Indonesia / Bali 14%
• Thailand 11%
• USA 10%
• Hong Kong 8%
• China 7%
• Fiji 7%
• France 7%
• Italy 5%
• Malaysia 5%
• Singapore 5%
• UK 5%
• Vietnam 5%

5 tips for avoiding crime

1. Keep valuables in sight or in a secure place such as the hotel safe
2. Avoid walking around at night alone, especially in unlit areas
3. Stay sharp! Don’t drink too much and get plenty of rest
4. Don’t keep all your money in one place and never leave your wallet in your back pocket
5. Make it difficult for pickpockets by keeping your bag zipped and close to you

What to do if you encounter crime

• Contact the police immediately
• Get a police report to help with any claims
• Contact your travel insurance company who will be able to advise what documents you need to make a claim