7 essential actions to take if you find yourself robbed while traveling abroad

Theft is a universal risk when you’re traveling internationally, no matter where you are.

This doesn’t only refer to outright robbery; travelers frequently fall victim to subtle tactics like pickpocketing, theft from hotel rooms, and luggage being taken from cars, buses, and trains.

Even seasoned travel experts like guidebook writer Rick Steves have been targeted by pickpockets in places like Paris, where he lost his driver's license, credit cards, and cash. He noted in a podcast that this experience highlights the importance of remaining vigilant, as anyone can become a victim if they're not careful.

Pickpockets often operate in heavily tourist-populated areas across Europe, with a recent report from money.co.uk identifying top five pickpocketing hotspots: Las Ramblas in Barcelona, the Eiffel Tower in Paris, Trevi Fountain in Rome, and Charles Bridge in Prague.

In 2018, Barcelona recorded a staggering 12 robberies per hour, earning it the title "the bag-snatching capital of Spain." This summer, both Barcelona and Paris have increased police presence on the streets to combat thefts more effectively.

In Asia, thefts involving motorbikes are unfortunately quite prevalent, especially in Bali, Cambodia, and Vietnam. TPG contributor Katie Lockhart experienced this firsthand last year while riding a motorbike in Bali.

"What shocked me more was having my Google Pixel snatched from my hand while traveling at 30 mph, and the emotional impact it had on me once the initial shock faded," she recounted.

"After a moment of stunned silence, I yelled for my partner, who was driving, to pursue the thieves. Despite our frantic chase, we lost them after just a few turns. The whole ordeal left me feeling violated and unexpectedly rattled."

While it's impossible to eliminate the risk of theft entirely, there are several steps that travelers can and should take immediately after being robbed, as well as in the days that follow.

If you've fallen victim to theft while traveling, here are the essential steps to take.

Avoid chasing the thief

Essentially, do not follow in Lockhart's footsteps. No phone, regardless of how new, is worth risking your safety by getting involved in a potentially dangerous situation.

Pursuing a thief by bike, foot, or car can endanger you and others around you. This is particularly true when you have no idea if the thief is armed, under the influence, or in a desperate state. You might not even be chasing the right person, as thieves often work in teams, and your belongings may have already been passed off to an accomplice.

If you own Apple AirTags, the Find My iPhone app, or their Android counterparts, head to the closest police station to file a report. You can also inquire whether local authorities would accompany you in an attempt to recover your stolen phone or luggage. Always prioritize your safety first.

Find a secure location to regroup

If you’ve been robbed, seek a safe spot to regain your composure and assess the situation. If you feel threatened, shout for assistance or call the local emergency number using your phone or one you’ve borrowed.

In the European Union and several other countries outside North America, dial 112 (not 911) to reach emergency services. It's wise to check a country's emergency number before you travel.

Experiencing theft of your belongings, whether through force or stealth, can be both violating and frightening. It’s common to feel visibly shaken in such situations.

In this scenario, the best course of action is to seek refuge in a hotel lobby, store, or any well-lit area where there are other people around. This reduces the likelihood of being targeted for another crime by those looking for vulnerable individuals.

Tackle the immediate consequences of the theft

For items like credit cards and smartphones, it's crucial to assess and prioritize the immediate repercussions of the theft.

If your phone is taken while unlocked, log into another device and swiftly change the passwords for any apps accessed through your phone. Ensure you do this on a trusted device (rather than at an internet cafe), and remember to log out of all accounts after updating the passwords.

If your credit card or wallet is stolen, act quickly by calling each provider's international number to cancel it before any unauthorized charges occur. If your phone is also taken, you won't receive fraud alerts, so it's essential to inform the companies yourself.

International customer service numbers for major credit card companies

Be aware that some international customer service numbers vary by country, and making collect calls can be difficult if the operator doesn't speak English. It's wise to have your destination's numbers noted before you travel (or save them for easy online access).

• American Express: Instruct the operator to use the access code for your current country plus 336-393-1111.
• Barclays: 1-302-255-8888.
• Capital One: 1-804-934-2001.
• Chase: 1-512-623-7702.
• Citi: 1-605-335-2222.
• Visa: Call collect at 1-303-967-1096 or refer to this PDF with country-specific numbers.

How to replace a lost or stolen passport

TPG has covered the effects of losing a passport on your Global Entry status, as well as how to apply for an emergency passport.

Just like with your belongings and credit cards, it's crucial to report passport theft to local authorities, as this formalizes the loss. It's also a necessary step in the replacement process.

Unlike with your phone and credit cards, you need to obtain a new passport before you can head home, so make registering the loss a top priority.

Keep in mind that after reporting a lost or stolen passport, you may be subject to additional screening by the Transportation Security Administration and passport control.

While the TSA cannot confirm or deny this practice, there are anecdotal accounts from those who have had to obtain emergency passport replacements that suggest it occurs. Once you receive your new passport, consider applying for a known traveler number to help avoid being flagged for the inconvenient SSSS supplemental screening.

Compile a list of all items that were lost

Being robbed can leave you feeling powerless. However, taking proactive steps like creating a detailed inventory of stolen items can help you regain a sense of control. This is also essential for filing insurance claims and prompting local law enforcement to take action.

This list can serve as proof that you've updated all your passwords, as well as assist you in keeping track of which apps need to be reinstalled on a new device and which credit card companies require notification.

Consider utilizing a password manager like LastPass, which securely stores your passwords and simplifies the process of updating them from a different device.

Notify your insurance provider

It's essential to inform your travel insurance company or any relevant insurance provider as soon as possible. The representative can guide you through the necessary steps to file a claim and recover costs for your lost belongings.

Typically, this involves obtaining a police report within 24 hours of the theft, completing their forms, and providing proof of purchase for the stolen items.

Some credit cards offer purchase protection, which may be applicable if your belongings were lost or stolen (subject to terms and conditions). TPG has created a list of the top cards offering purchase protection.

TPG has also addressed travel insurance and credit card insurance coverage on related topics:

• 3 essential tips for securing and utilizing travel insurance this summer
• 4 instances when your credit card's travel insurance can assist with travel issues, and 7 times it may fall short
• Everything you need to know about annual travel insurance plans
• When to purchase travel insurance and when to depend on credit card benefits

Bring a reliable local with you to the police station

If you're in a country where you face a language barrier or where law enforcement is known to be unhelpful or indifferent towards tourists, having a trustworthy local accompany you to the police station can be extremely beneficial.

After Lockhart's robbery, a kind housekeeper from her villa in Bali accompanied her to the police station.

This assistance proved invaluable – the police officer had limited English skills and demanded a bribe of $20 for an official report. The housekeeper assured Lockhart that this was standard practice.

"Without her assistance," Lockhart noted, "they might have asked for more money, and the whole process could have dragged on much longer."

Continue your travels

As the saying goes, "You must get back on the horse that threw you." The same applies to traveling. It's perfectly natural to feel fear, sadness, or anxiety after a distressing experience, but don't let that fear prevent you from exploring the world again.

Finding the right balance between safety measures and the joy of traveling internationally is essential.

"I must confess, in the days following my theft, I felt unusually vulnerable in situations that would have never bothered me before, often on the verge of tears," Katie Lockhart reflected on her experience.

"I've visited 45 countries and traveled across Asia for over 10 months straight. That was the first time anything like this happened to me. It may not be the last, but that won’t stop me from enjoying laksa in Penang or exploring the islands of the Philippines," she added.

In summary

To minimize the risk of theft or robbery while traveling abroad, stay aware of your surroundings, remain cautious in high-risk areas, and secure your belongings in zipped pockets, money belts, or locked storage while on the move.

Even the most careful travelers can fall victim to theft. If it occurs, prioritize the safety of yourself and your companions over recovering lost items.

Quickly act to secure sensitive information such as credit card numbers, passwords, and phone access. It's important to officially report the theft to local authorities—not just for the chance of recovering your belongings, but also for documentation needed for insurance claims.

Lastly, don’t let the fear of crime stop you from traveling or enjoying your time abroad.