Top 5 global theft hotspots
Travel insurance is always top of the list in must-haves for holidays, and those loveable meerkats from Compare the Market Travel Insurance have revealed the top six destinations known for crime.
These holiday spots are havens for pickpockets and petty thieves, and the website, which features 27 travel insurance brands, have sourced feedback on tourist theft claims from the past twelve months.
Taking the data from Travel Insuranz, the meerkats can reveal the most common items claimed for by Aussie travellers.
In order, these are mobile phones, cameras, sunglasses, cash, iPads, laptops, electronic storage and charging devices, wallets, spectacles, passports, and jewellery.
Abigail Koch, spokesperson at comparethemarket.com.au said it’s important for Australians to know where petty theft hotspots are.
“While extra vigilance is required, it’s a travel insurance policy that will enable Australians to avoid forking out a large sum to replace items if they’re caught off guard,” Koch explained.
“Basic cover can cost from as little as $36, an insignificant hit to the pocket when compared to losing $2000 worth of electronics to theft, not to mention invaluable items such as passports and travel documents.
“Australians should in no way be deterred from travelling for fear of being targeted. When armed with a little local know-how, many of the pitfalls that lead to someone being duped can be avoided.”
Check out the places to best protect your pocket.
Paris: The city of lovers has many beautiful sights to distract visitors, hence its popularity with pickpockets. The city’s train network is a particularly vulnerable spot.
Comparethemarket says: Beware of packed trains, as they are offer a great hunting ground for pickpockets who know it’s hard for you to keep a close eye on your belongings. If you’re in doubt, wait a few minutes for the next train to come along. A quick tip is to take copies of important documents, such as your passport, hotel bookings, flight details, and keep them in a separate place from the originals. This will save you a lot of time and hassle should you lose the originals or have them stolen.
Another common trick in France is for tourists who are reading a map to be approached by someone to ‘offer assistance with directions’. While you’re distracted listening to their directions, their accomplice will snatch your bag or other items of value.
Rome: The eternal city is one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations, boasting famous attractions such as the Sistine Chapel, the Trevi Fountain and the Colosseum.
Comparethemarket says: If you’re enjoying a latte at an outdoor cafe, don’t leave your bag hanging off the back of your chair or under the table – keep it in sight at all times. Be aware also that a lot of basic cover travel insurance policies do not include theft of cash, so if you decide to take out basic rather than comprehensive cover, check exactly what you are covered for.
Another common trick you could fall prey to in Italy, is when what appears to be a homeless adult or child holds up a piece of paper with a message on it to your face while you’re dining. They use this as a distraction to snatch whatever items are on the table – typically mobile phones, wallets or sunglasses.
Cambodia and Thailand: Both of these countries have high incidences of bag snatches from people riding past on bikes.
Comparethemarket says: When walking along the street, walk on the inside of the pavement, not the kerbside, so it’s more difficult for your bag to be snatched by a passing thief. Similarly, if you are on a motorcycle or a scooter, always store your bag and other valuables under the seat.
Philippines and India: Theft from homes when travellers are staying with family or friends are the most commonly reported tourist crimes in both of these countries.
Comparethemarket says: If you are staying with family or friends in either of those countries and you are going out for the day, either store your valuables in your host’s safe, or hide them somewhere that will be difficult for an opportunist thief to break in and grab. Don’t leave anything of value lying around in plain sight.
Bali: Theft from handbags and trouser pockets in restaurants and bars is the most prevalent form of tourist theft in Bali.
Comparethemarket says: Pickpockets in Bali often target people who may not be fully focused and alert, and on any typical night in Bali there are plenty of tourists who fit that description after a few drinks. Be careful and never carry large sums of money around with you – only take out what you think you will need for the evening.
Peru: Bag snatches from busy terminal locations such as bus depots, airports and taxi ranks, are the most common places to be relieved of your possessions, as you make your way to Lima, Trujillo, or Machu Picchu.
Comparethemarket says: In Peru, the thefts are typically a little different to the usual snatch and grab in that the bags are generally at a person’s feet and the theft is not noticed immediately, so don’t leave anything lying around.
While a travel insurance policy is imperative when heading overseas, travellers must also be aware of when claims may become invalid.
“When it comes to ‘petty’ theft, it is important to note that cover may be declined if your items were left unattended, or if you failed to report your loss to the local authorities,” Koch said.
“Also, placing valuable items (such as laptops, cameras, or cash) into your checked baggage rather than your carry-on luggage on a flight also typically falls outside policy coverage.”
Email the Travel Weekly team at traveldesk@travelweekly.com.au
bali cambodia comparethemarket.com.au india paris peru rome travel insuranzLatest News
Australia fails to make top 10 destination list for American travellers
Australia's top cities have failed to make the grade with American travellers this northern summer, with no local city in the top.
APT Launches 2025 Asia Adventures
APT has launched its Asia Adventures for 2025, including new luxury holidays in India, Sri Lanka and Japan. Five new tours lead guests to the highlights of India, including a seven-night cruise along the rarely travelled Lower Ganges aboard the Ganges Voyager. Further south, Sri Lanka’s greatest destinations are revealed on a new 15-day Land […]
ANZAC Battlefield travel on the 2025 bucketlist
As Anzac Day dawns, agents prepare for a surge in bookings for the 110th anniversary of the Anzac Cove landings.
Former Channel 9 Getaway host and founder of TRIBE Jules Lund to speak at Travel DAZE
From blond-tipped travel reporter to Travel DAZE speaker, Jules Lund cuts through the BS.
HX’s Roald Amundsen finds aliens in the Antarctic
Forget whales, HX's MS Roald Amundsen captures aliens in the Antarctic - and they're not pretty.
Mayhem in France as 70% of flights face cancellation
I mean it wouldn't be France if there wasn't at least one strike.
Etihad Airways launches double-decker service with world’s only in-air three-room suite
We imagine falling asleep in the three-room suite is superior to falling asleep on your neighbour's shoulder.
Norwegian Cruise Line launches 2024 Europe travel season
Europe certainly has a lot of ports. Its time for Australia to up its game.
“The power of travel for positive change” – Intrepid’s Jenny Gray hails controversial all-women Saudi Arabia trip
There is an awful lot to love about this tour from Intrepid. Where do we sign up?
Princess names the Sun, unveils Sanctuary Collection + Star Princess to Alaska in ’26
A huge bottle of Veuve was smashed into the side of the ship to make things official. So no, we couldn't snag a glass.
Collette special offers across peak northern summer season
If you are craving a trip to Europe then grab this deal with both of your grubby hands.
Air India and All Nippon codeshare between the two countries
Here at TW we agreed that the photo would have worked better if they had swapped planes.
A&K offers minimum 18 weeks paid parental leave
Contrary to what the photo suggests this benefit is only applicable for humans. Back to work Mrs Jumbo.
NH Hotel Group rebrands as Minor Hotels Europe & Americas
Hang around the bends of the hotels. We imagine they will be full of a lot of branded content.
Scenic Eclipse II – the business of creating unforgettable life-changing memories
These cruise brothers from another mother offer a view of cruising on Scenic Eclipse II that is poles apart.
MSC builds new hospital ship with Mercy Ships
If you want to read a story that puts a smile on your face then this is the one for you.
“I peed on myself watching this” – Social media users squirm at Royal Caribbean’s Harmony of The Seas 55ft dive video
TW is not responsible for any involuntary actions your body might have after watching this video.
FLIGHT REVIEW: Qantas Boeing 787 Dreamliner business class
The real bonus is you're unlikely to be around screaming children. Hoorah!
Traveltek offers travel agents new rapid deploy cruise website
As always, if you have any issue with the platform, just turn it off and on again.
Experience whale watching & classical music at the Australian Festival of Chamber Music in Townsville
Disappointedly, the whales do not start singing in tune with the orchestra. Opportunity missed.
Fond, very Fond. London hotel famed for James Bond link adds ‘Classic Comforts’ lunch menu
James Bond author Ian Fleming was so fond if this hotel, it inspired the legendary phrase ‘shaken, not stirred’.
What sets Eclipse Travel apart with Africa expert Hilary Dubyk: Travel Weekly TV
If you want to know more about Africa, then Hilary Dubyk is your person.
Surge in Australians visiting Japan
Feel like all of your friends have just returned from Europe? Now it's Japan.
Seabourn announces Western Kimberley Traditional Owners as Godparents of Seabourn Pursuit
Seabourn has named Western Kimberley Traditional Owners, the Wunambal Gaambera, as Godparents of the ultra-luxury purpose-built Seabourn Pursuit. It is the first cruise line to appoint Traditional Owners as godparents of a ship. Seabourn Pursuit embarks on its inaugural season in the Kimberley region this June. The naming ceremony will take place on Seabourn Pursuit’s […]
Sydney named 17th best place to work remotely
If you struggle to get a seat within Sydney's coffee shops, you now know why.
W Melbourne grows sales team
We appreciate the thought that has gone into this team photo.
Cunard welcomes new ship Queen Anne
This might be the most impressive ship handover in ship handover history.
Intrepid Travel appoints Yvette Thompson as general manager sales & marketing ANZ
It isn't end-of-day Monday and Yvette Thompson has already nabbed herself an impressive promotion.
Anna Fawcett re-joins Global Touring in newly-created APAC role
With such an impressive CV, Global Touring is no doubt thrilled to have Fawcett back.
“We know our response has been far from perfect” – Emirates’ open letter following Dubai flooding
If you also need to write an apology letter, then this is a pretty good template.
Malolo Island Resort opens brand new Spa
Fiji’s Malolo Island has added another string to its bow – opening its $1.3 million day spa on Thursday, 18th April 2024. (Lead Image: matriarch Rosie Whitton with spa staff) Located at the edge of the resort’s luscious patch of tropical rainforest, the new “Leilani’s Spa” adds another level of elevated experiences to Malolo’s already […]
Virgin Australia’s HILARIOUS second instalment of the ‘Bring on Wonderful’ campaign
We don't use the word 'hilarious' lightly, but this is worthy of the title.
Visit Sunshine Coast reveals new brand identity
If you were looking for another reason to visit the Sunshine Coast then this is it.
Sofitel launches brand campaign starring Sex Education’s Gillian Anderson
We can confirm the content of this video is less spicy than Sex Education.
Holland America Line gives agents the chance to visit Alaska on 11-day Famil
If you've ever wanted to see a Polar Bear (and who doesn't?), now is your time.
More than 65 luxury agents gather in Sydney for Best of the Best dinner
This looks like a fabulous do. We imagine there may be a few (or maybe 65) sore heads this morning!