Holidaymakers 'need to protect possessions'

New research shows that holidaymakers planning to take flights to South Africa and other major destinations should look after their possessions while overseas.

Sainsbury's Travel Insurance claims that Brits have had up to £1.7 billion of possessions stolen while overseas over the past five years.

The research estimated that 5.1 million British adults were the victims of theft – with the average loss equalling £326 per person.

Men are more likely to be victims of theft than women, with 13 per cent of males having items stolen while on a foreign holiday, compared to nine per cent of females.

Scott Gorman, Sainsbury's Travel Insurance manager, said: "It's easy to be engrossed in your surroundings when in a different country and when you're feeling relaxed you can be easily distracted."

He added it is vital for holidaymakers to remain vigilant, especially when in traditional and crowded tourist areas.

Holidayextras.com recently warned travellers to ensure they keep their passport in a safe place otherwise they could face added costs and hassle if it is lost or stolen.

Travel insurance policyholders 'should begin considering their 2011 holiday'

Booking in advance is a great way to secure an appropriate deal on a summer 2011 holiday, according to an expert.

Clare Banham, spokeswoman for ABTA - The Travel Association, said making arrangements now can help families secure the best accommodation for their needs, as well as financial incentives such as free child places.

And travel insurance policyholders unsure of where to go should not dismiss the countries they have already seen in the past, as getting to know an area - as well as learning its customs and making friends - can contribute to a positive experience for everyone involved.

"Human nature is that you will fall in love with a destination ... there's a whole variety of reasons why you go back again and again," Ms Banham explained.

What's more, research published by Thomson Al Fresco has shown that the average family will arrive at the same destination five times and one in six will do so ten times or more.