Theft

In populated areas, travellers risk becoming the victim of property crimes, including pickpocketing and various common scams. Anyone who can afford to travel is much more well off than most of the population in many countries; add a traveller's lack of knowledge of the local language and local legal system and a visitor unaware of their environment can become a prime target. An intoxicated visitor in a bad neighbourhood is particularly vulnerable, as is anyone openly displaying valuables. Thieves look at the suitcase-laden traveller and see cameras and smartphones which could be stolen and sold, identity documents which can be used for impersonation, payment cards on which charges can be run up, and currency which can be pocketed.

Travel insurance will often provide some coverage for loss, damage and theft but there are strict limits to how much is covered and how "tight" the property has to be watched; a police report will usually be necessary to make a claim. The liability of innkeepers and transportation companies for luggage and valuables stolen while in their care is often limited by local law, although items secured in the hotel's safe may obtain better protection than items left in the room.