Discovering that your wallet — along with your cash and credit cards — has gone missing while you're on vacation overseas can be a devastating moment, and it may very well ruin your entire trip.
Whether you’ve lost cash, credit cards, or checks, the first thing you should do is report the theft to the local police. While this may not guarantee the recovery of your belongings, it will at least provide you with a police report, which is essential when filing a claim with your travel insurance company.
Traveler’s Checks
If you’re using traveler’s checks and they are stolen, call the emergency hotline immediately to report the theft. If you have copies of the receipts and serial numbers, you can usually get them replaced within 24 hours. Without those, you might have to wait much longer.
Credit Cards and Debit Cards
If your credit or debit card is stolen, call your bank’s emergency number right away to request a replacement. Some banks offer free card replacements and may even arrange emergency cash advances through card payment networks such as Plus, Visa, or American Express.
Travel cards are generally safer, often come with backup cards, and don’t have your name printed on them or any direct link to your bank account.
Cash
If you lose a large amount of cash, you might need to ask your family to transfer money to you. Some travelers recommend using your credit or debit card for transfers — if you remember the card number and PIN, you can initiate the transfer yourself. If your bank operates internationally, like Citibank or HSBC, you can also have the money transferred directly to a nearby branch.
What if your ID is stolen?
If your ID is stolen, you won’t be able to transfer money directly. You’ll either need to have it sent to a friend or replace the ID. To get a new passport, first locate the nearest embassy, then prove your identity — either through an interview or by providing a faxed copy of your ID from home.
Making a Claim Through Travel Insurance
Before you travel, familiarize yourself with your insurance policy. Contact your insurance provider as soon as your money is stolen. Many insurers require official documentation from local authorities within 24 hours.
If you need emergency help, contact the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade
A spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade once said that one of the most common requests embassies receive is assistance for travelers who have been robbed or had their belongings stolen. Embassies can also provide small emergency loans, but you’ll need to sign a legal agreement promising to repay the full amount. If you fail to repay on time, your passport may be withheld until the debt is settled.
We strongly recommend that all travelers:
1. Register your travel plans — this helps us contact you more easily in case of an emergency.
2. Subscribe to email updates about travel destination information and carefully read travel advisories.
3. Purchase comprehensive travel insurance that covers all activities during your trip. Travel insurance is just as important as your passport.
How to salvage your vacation if you’re pickpocketed
1. Sew or design a hidden pocket in your clothing, such as a small pocket under your shirt, to stash some money.
2. Make copies of your important documents and card details, and save them in your email so you can access them from anywhere.
3. Write down your bank’s emergency contact number, familiarize yourself with the process for replacing a card, and inform your bank of your travel dates.
4. Keep a small amount of cash hidden for emergencies.
5. Make full use of the hotel safe (if available), which is usually free and can give you extra peace of mind.