What to do if you’re robbed on vacation
Getting robbed on vacation is one of the last things you’re thinking about when you head out the door.
But in order to be prepared, you should at least have some idea of what to do if the unthinkable happens. Thieves can strike anywhere – closer to home or abroad. They can strike in a hotel room, break into your rental car or snatch your suitcase when you aren’t looking.
Even more disturbing, you can be held up by a person brandishing a weapon. Should you find yourself in that position, hand over whatever they are seeking. It’s not worth being injured or losing your life!
Below, you’ll find important steps to take should you ever find yourself a victim of theft/robbery.
If you’re robbed:
1) Contact authorities immediately.Don’t delay!Even if police cannot help you retrieve your possessions, you will need a copy of the police report for any future insurance claims.
2) If your passport was stolen contact the local Canadian embassy. https://travel.gc.ca/assistance/embassies-consulates. You need to report the passport has been stolen so no one else can use it or pretend that they are you. Plan ahead and have copies of your passport. It will help make it easier and faster to get a replacement.
3) Get in touch with your travel insurance provider.Tell them what has gone missing and provide them with a copy of the police report. Make notes of your conversation in case you can’t recall details of it in the future. If emergency funds are included with your policy, your insurer will discuss them with you at the time.
4) Contact your bank.If your wallet has been stolen, you’ll want to advise your credit card companies and financial institution to report the theft. Helpful hint:Before you leave Canada, photocopy the identification page of your passport and other travel documents. Write down the numbers of your credit and debit cards. Carry this information separately from the originals and leave copies at home.
5) Change your passwords. It’s bad enough to lose your personal items, but it’s a whole other thing to have your identity stolen, social media accounts hijacked or nefarious emails sent to your friends and family.
How can travel insurance help?
There are numerous ways travel insurance can assist you when you are a victim of theft or robbery while on a trip. In addition to medical care, other benefits can include:
- Protecting your luggage and personal effects
- Trip cancellation or interruption
- Interpretative services in the event of an emergency
- Providing emergency funds
- Experienced round-the-clock staff to help with your case
Talk to your broker about what coverage is right for you. For a relatively small amount of money, travel insurance packs a big punch and will be there to protect you when the unexpected happens.
RELATED READING: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/canadian-passports/security/lost-stolen-inaccessible-damaged-found.html