British holidaymakers face having to shell out eye-watering costs for a having items lost or stolen on their travels. According to research from Tesco Insurance, more than a third (36%) have either lost or had an item stolen while overseas.
Travellers who’ve had to replace lost items reported that cost of replacing a phone can be as high as £495 and even more for newer models. And for those unlucky enough to lose a package full of commonly lost valuable items, the total cost of replacing them can to rise to over £1,500.
These include:
Phone: £495.10
Luggage: £411.20
Camera: £376.30
Passport/ID: £289.10
According to Tesco’s research one in five Brits (20%) are concerned about losing their luggage while jetting abroad.
Meanwhile, 22% were worried about having something stolen, such as a wallet, phone, or camera, according to a press release from insurance company.
Additionally, 26% said they were worried about losing their passport or other important documents.
Alex Cross, Chief Customer Officer at Tesco Insurance said: “Lost or missing items can quickly turn a dream holiday into a nightmare, so it’s no surprise this is a top concern for many travellers.
“The best way to stay protected is to plan ahead: invest in tracking devices like AirTags, secure your luggage properly, and ensure your travel insurance covers your belongings – including gadgets – from the moment you book.
“Travel insurance is an important consideration for any trip you take, even if it’s just a short city break. While it comes in handy for things like cancellations or damage to your luggage, it’s invaluable if the unexpected does happen and you need medical treatment.
“A few simple steps can help you travel with confidence and peace of mind.”
Alex shared various tips on how to keep your luggage safe, including putting low-cost tracking devices to keep track of bags, sturdy padlocks on checked luggage, and a smaller accessible bag that stays with you for critical items like passports and wallets.
Other recommendations include ensuring you have insurance overage. He also recommends, before you travel, getting clear photos of your:
- passport
- visa (if applicable)
- driver’s license
- travel insurance policy
Having a copy of it on your phone, and also sending it to a trusted family member, can help speed up a replacement for physical documents significantly if disaster strikes.
He also recommends having a list of essential emergency contact numbers readily accessible – but not in your phone.
Important numbers include:
- the airline
- your hotel
- your travel insurance provider’s 24-hour helpline
- the local embassy or consulate
Alex said you may consider also getting gadget cover if you’re planning on taking lots of expensive pieces of kit like tablets, phones, and cameras.