An airline passenger was recently arrested after other passengers had over £18,000 stolen during a flight. The incident occured on a flight from Vietnam to Singapore and three passengers claimed to have had their bags ransacked.
The travel experts at World Nomads insurance have issued a warning to passengers over their hand luggage.
Jonathan Frankham, general manager at World Nomads, said: “Thieves may see hand luggage as a treasure trove, brimming with valuable documents, gadgets and cash.
“It’s a calculated gamble on their part, exploiting travellers’ sense of security once snugly seated onboard.
“Yet, it’s during these moments, the buzz of mealtimes, the dimming of lights, or those quick dashes to the loo, that thieves might try their luck.”
He said: “First and foremost, packing smartly is crucial. Opt for a sturdy backpack, preferably one, which can be securely locked and marked with colourful zip ties for easy identification.
“In case the zip tie is missing or tampered with, it’s important to alert a staff member immediately.
“Staying vigilant is key, especially during times when attention might waver. It’s advisable to store larger bags in overhead lockers near your seat to keep a watchful eye on them.
“For high-value items like passports, cash, and phones, the best practice is to use a secure waist pouch or carry them in your pocket.
“While it may be tempting to leave belongings with a trusted travel companion, it’s preferable to avoid leaving them unattended altogether and always keep them in sight.
“This not only minimises the risk of theft but also ensures that insurance claims are not negatively impacted due to negligence.”
If a traveller does fall victim to a thief, they should report the incident immediately to their airline and the local police.
Tourists should make sure to gather all the necessary evidence if they want to put forward an insurance claim.
Jonathan added: “It’s also important for travellers to assess their responsibility in the situation. Ensuring that valuables were secured, and that luggage was not left unattended is key, as negligence can impact the viability of a claim.”
