10 top travel tips for the safety conscious

Last year one in six holiday makers became a victim of theft abroad. This year American Express Travellers Cheques is issuing advice to help travellers keep their possessions safe whilst they explore foreign shores.

Kirstie Bayley, Vice President, American Express Travellers Cheques comments: "A theft or break-in can ruin the perfect holiday. The last thing people want when they are on holiday is to worry about the safety of their money and belongings. This summer we are encouraging holiday makers to include Travellers Cheques within their travel wallet. Travellers Cheques are like cash only safer as they are completely replaceable if lost or stolen."

Tips for Keeping Your Possessions Safe Whilst Abroad:

1. Photocopy all your documentation

Photocopy all documentation with your name on it including passport details, flight tickets, hotel reservation confirmation. It is a good idea to make two copies. Leave one set at home, in case family need to come to your rescue and take one set with you, keeping it separate from the real thing.

2. Email yourself

Email yourself any information you may need in case of an emergency e.g. insurance details and help lines, Travellers Cheque numbers and emergency numbers for lost or stolen cards. That way, you can access it all from abroad should you lose the hard copies.

3. Be money-wise

Consider taking a percentage of your cash in Travellers Cheques. Travellers Cheques are like cash but insured - if they get lost or stolen, you can easily get them cancelled, and a new set dispatched, by quoting the Travellers Cheque reference number on your receipt. This will take the sting out of loosing a wallet full of cash. Also consider splitting up your money, keeping some in the hotel safe and some in your pocket.

4. Buy a padlock and chain

You never know when it might come in useful. Even if you are sitting with your luggage securing it to a table or chair will give you peace of mind when your head is turned.

5. Read the guide book

It is important that you know as much about where you are travelling before you go. By reading the guide book you can acquaint yourself with local customers and services before you arrive so that you don't risk putting yourself in a vulnerable position.

6. Keep an eye on your cards

When paying the bill using a credit or debit card, keep your eye your card and watch the transaction go through. Whilst most the unauthorised use of your card will usually be insured against, knowing where your card is all the time will minimise the risks of your details being swiped.

7. Be prepared

Consider buying Travellers Cheques as an emergency fund. Because Travellers Cheques never expire, you can keep them as a cash reserve whenever you travel. Tuck it into a safe place in your suitcase, so it's there when you need it, on this trip or any trip in the future you might need emergency cash.

8. Behave as your would at home

If you wouldn't walk alone at night at home, don't do it in a foreign country. Despite relaxing on holiday, it is important to keep your wits about you. Taking simple precautions to keep yourself safe could mean that you never have to go through the unpleasant experience of becoming a victim of crime.

9. Use the safe

If you have a safe in your hotel room, use it. If your belongings are left secured, they will be covered by your insurance and safer than carrying them with you when you're out and about.

10. Make sure you're insured

Should you become the victim of crime whilst abroad, being insured will give you the peace of mind that your belongings can be replaced.

If the worst happens

If you feel you need help and assistance beyond that provided by the local police, contact The British Embassy or Consulate. They are duty bound to make sure you get home safe and well.

If you have American Express Travellers Cheques, American Express will also provide you with assistance with the process of getting a passport re-issued by providing advice and the necessary forms and where possible arranging an interview at the consulate. American Express will also supply customers with the necessary phone numbers and guide customers through the process of cancelling their cards, whether the card lost is American Express or not.