Are there any conditions?

Ensure that you understand the circumstances in
which cover is NOT provided as conditions vary from
policy to policy.

One of the things that your policy will require you to
do is to take reasonable precautions to safeguard your
luggage and personal effects – this means taking care
of your luggage and personal effects at all times.

For instance:

» Look for safe storage facilities such as a hotel
safe, particularly for high value items which
may not be covered if left unattended.

» Keep your luggage and personal effects
within sight and in your control, particularly
when in a public place, such as airports, hotel
foyers, bus or train depots, eating places and
telephone booths.

» Be vigilant - thieves often try to distract you
or strike when you leave your belongings or
turn away momentarily.

» Don’t leave your belongings lying around on
a beach when you go swimming and don’t
leave them with someone you’ve just met.

» If you’re thinking about leaving your
belongings somewhere, such as in a
compartment on a public bus, look at the
alternatives: can you take your bag to your
seat with you, or take the expensive items
(such as cameras) with you?

Are there any exclusions?

You may be surprised to learn that the following items
might not be covered by your policy:

» Items which are stolen when left unattended
in a public place.

» Electronic items such as cameras, computers,
mobile phones & jewellery unless they are
carried with you.

» Items left in a motor vehicle for any period of
time, particularly overnight.

» Cash.

Be prepared before you travel

Although this sounds like a lot of work when you are
already busy planning a trip, the following steps can
make it much easier to process your claim:

» Make a list of the items you are taking with
you, especially new or expensive items.

» Gather up original receipts and credit card
statements.

» Obtain current valuations for valuable
items where possible.

» If you can’t find receipts, take photos
of these items.

» Leave all of this documentation at home,
where you can access it in the event you
need to make a claim.

What happens if a loss occurs?

» Get proof. You need to prove your loss so it’s
important to make a report to the relevant
authority, such as the airline, hotel or local
police, within the timeframe required by your
insurer, and obtain a copy of the report. If
there are any witnesses to the loss, obtain
their contact details or statements in support
of your claim.

» Read the claim form. When submitting a
claim, give a clear account of the events
that have caused your loss and ensure you
submit the claim form with all required
documentation to prevent delays in the
assessment of your claim.

Ask before you travel

If you continue to have questions about your cover,
make sure you contact your travel insurer for
clarification before you travel.