Advice to protect your belongings.
Advice to prevent theft by pickpockets:
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Store your belongings and personal objects in interior pockets;
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Do not keep your cell phone in sight (e.g. on a table in a terrace, cafe or restaurant) or keep it in the back pocket of your pants;
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When traveling on public transport or very busy streets, carry the backpack on the front of your body;
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Use small padlocks on backpack zippers, or a clip, as an additional security measure;
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Do not carry large amounts of money with you;
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Be aware of what is going on around you and be wary of strangers walking too close to you.
Renting a car, here are some tips to protect your belongings:
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Don’t leave valuables in the car: If possible, take your valuables with you. If you can’t, hide them in inconspicuous places like the glove box, under seats, or even creative spots like under floor mats or between seat cushions.
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Check damage charges: Look at the excess and deposit amounts. The excess is the maximum you’ll pay if the car is damaged. Consider whether you can cover it. Also, check the Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) – it may not cover everything. Consider additional insurance for peace of mind.
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Watch for unexpected charges: Some rental providers require you to buy fuel from them (often at inflated prices). Check their mileage limits and charges for extras like car seats or snow chains. Be cautious of deals that seem too good to be true.
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Pressure Selling: Be aware of pressure selling by sales staff when collecting the car. They might push additional insurance. Decide beforehand what coverage you need.
Remember, removing valuables and being informed about rental terms can help safeguard your belongings during your car rental experience!
If your car was broken into! Here are the steps you should take:
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Safety first: Ensure your safety. If you’re in the car, stay calm and avoid confrontation. If you’re not present, don’t approach the scene until it’s safe.
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Contact authorities: Call the local police immediately. They will guide you on what to do next. File a report with them, providing details about the break-in.
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Document the scene: Take photos of any damage to the car, broken windows, and the surrounding area. This documentation will be useful for insurance claims.
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Contact rental company: Inform the car rental company about the incident. They will guide you on the next steps. You may need to fill out an incident report.
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Check insurance coverage: Review your rental car insurance policy. Some policies cover theft or damage due to break-ins. If you purchased additional coverage, it may help.
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Secure your belongings: If any personal belongings were stolen, report them to the police and your insurance company. Keep records of the stolen items.
Remember, staying calm and following these steps will help you handle the situation effectively.
