8 ways to help ensure safe travels

Keep your important documents with you at all times while travelling. Prepare copies of your passport, driver’s license, visa, COVID-19 vaccination records and itinerary before you go, store them in a secure location, and leave a copy with a friend or family member.

Otherwise, use only registered taxis. If you’re renting, understand your car insurance policy and the country’s requirements. It’s also handy to keep a copy of your insurer’s emergency hotline on hand in case of any unforeseen circumstances.

As we’re still living through a pandemic, it is wise to minimise the amount of time you spend in lines, public shops, and crowded areas like tourist attractions and public transportation. 

You probably don’t need your fine jewellery and watches with you when travelling. It may be better to leave them at home so you don’t risk losing them or becoming a target for criminals. If there’s a need to bring them along on your travels, consider whether your travel insurance provides coverage in case of any accidental loss or theft. In some cases, your home and contents insurance may also afford adequate coverage so you can wear them with confidence, at home or abroad. 

Posting updates while you’re travelling will just alert criminals back home that you’re not around and your home may be easier to access. Keep those photos and other posts for when you get home.

For greater confidence and a safer experience, opt for hotels with good cleaning and disinfection measures in place (e.g. deep cleaning, contactless stay, etc.). You can also consider reputable large hotel chains as they are likely to have upgraded housekeeping routines or have developed enhanced approaches to cleaning and disinfecting based on recommendations by the World Health Organization (WHO) or other experts¹. Banyan Tree, for example, launched the ‘SafeSanctuary’ programme, to elevate its cleaning and disinfection protocols². 

If you need to withdraw cash at your destination, consider doing so during the day and preferably from an ATM located within a bank. It's always recommended to plan ahead and determine how much money you’ll need, so you don’t end up taking too much or having to make repeated trips to the ATM.

Don't forget to activate your credit cards and make sure overseas usage is enabled while you're abroad.    

You may need a range of insurance solutions, from auto insurance to personal liability for different mishaps, such as getting involved in an accident when driving a rental car or misplacing your passport or credit card. Having travel insurance coverage also helps provide peace of mind. Regardless, it is wise to go over your insurance coverage before you travel to make sure you’re fully protected if something happens.