Travel light when it comes to baggage & valuables

With new excess baggage policies being introduced shortly, travellers should rethink what to take on holiday including packing valuables advises American Express Travel Insurance.

Joanne Field, Marketing Manager, American Express Insurance Services: “We are all going to have to pack smarter to comply with new luggage policies and avoid extra costs. However, in reality people risk far greater financial loss by taking too many valuables on holiday with them.”

Holidaymakers should be aware that insurance policies have a total valuables limit and a single item limit - typically these are a few hundred pounds. American Express’s most popular insurance product – Annual Classic – has a single item limit of £250 and a valuables in total limit of £3003.

However, there are over 450 travel insurance policies available to buy in the UK1 and travellers should check cover limits as they vary.

Field continues: “It is also important to consider the accumulative value of items. Our recent survey results4 reveal nearly half (43%) of respondents had packed clothing, jewellery and watches worth more than £250.”

Whilst some high value items may be covered by household insurance, American Express recommends leaving any valuables, particularly those with sentimental or high value at home.

Joanne Field: “Many travellers do not read their policy terms and conditions before travelling and are unaware that insurers impose a single item limit and a valuables total limit. We would encourage everyone to be sure they know what they are purchasing when choosing travel insurance and what they are covered for.”