If you’re an adventurous traveller, it’s important to take steps to manage your risks while travelling. Here are some tips for keeping your belongings safe.

1. Keep the valuables to a minimum. This might mean leaving the 12-carat pink diamond necklace at home, unless you really need it for a special occasion (in which case take a fake copy instead!) Also, while you will probably need to carry some cash, keep that to a minimum as well.
2. Carry any valuable items you do need to take along close to you – such as in carry-on bags or a money belt – rather than in your main luggage.
3. Go low-key on the conspicuous bling. Looking like a wealthy Western traveller in a foreign land might attract the very sort of attention you don’t want!
4. Use locks on your bags and cases. While locks might not totally prevent bags from being opened, they should help to slow down would-be thieves.
5. Clearly label all your luggage with secure and waterproof labels.
6. Consider shrink-wrapping your luggage while in transit for extra security – shrink-wrap stations are available at many airports around the world.
7. If you are a young adventurer, make use of lockers at hostels (for that watch your parents gave you for your 21^st) if available – they could well be worth the extra little bit of expense.

Lastly, make sure to have your travel insurance in place before you go, to financially protect you from potential loss of your luggage and personal effects while away. You cannot take out travel insurance once your trip has begun, so make sure you speak to your insurance broker before you head to the airport.

Why is Travel Insurance so Important?

Travelling can be costly – flights, accommodation and all the activities you want to do can certainly add up. It can also end up being pricey when things don’t go as planned – such as if your flights are cancelled, your luggage gets lost or stolen, or you become ill or injured and need medical treatment.

This is where travel insurance comes in, as it provides some financial protection for these types of risks. Depending on your chosen policy and types and levels of cover, a travel policy may provide protection for:

• Losses due to delays, cancellations or rescheduling of flights or tours.
• Damage to or loss of luggage and personal belongings.
• Rental vehicle excesses / deductibles in an accident situation.
• Medical treatment for illness or injury. This is important as treatment in overseas hospitals can be very expensive and could leave you with a large bill.
• Accidental death or disability.

Ensuring you have quality travel cover in place before embarking can make it easier for you to relax and enjoy your adventures knowing you have financial protection in place, just in case. Make sure to include it on your must-do list before you go!