In-Flight Theft and Lost Luggage: How Travel Insurance Can Save Your Holiday

In-flight theft is rising fast, and Hong Kong International Airport (HKG), one of the busiest airports in the world, is right at the centre of this. According to police records, 169 theft cases were reported on flights arriving in Hong Kong in the first ten months of 2024, a 75% increase from 2023. Most incidents happened on short-haul routes from Southeast Asia, and the main targets were jewellery, cash, credit cards, and other valuables.

This isn’t a short-lived concern. In early September this year, police arrested two men after passengers on separate flights from Malaysia and Switzerland reported missing cash on the same day. A total of around HK$40,000 was stolen from three victims.

With more people flying means more luggage and unfortunately, more opportunity for theft and loss. In response, travellers are showing a growing interest in travel insurance; it may not stop your belongings from disappearing, but it can cushion the financial blow if something does go south.

Why travellers should care about this

Whether you’re travelling for work or leisure, your trip can turn into a nightmare within minutes when your valuable items disappear mid-flight. Victims often only discover the loss once they’ve landed, by which time the thief is long gone. You can reduce your risk by following a few simple steps:

• Keep your most valuable items in a bag that stays with you at all times, including passports, wallets, watches, and electronics.
• Photograph your belongings before your trip. This makes it easier to provide evidence for claims if anything goes missing.
• Keep receipts for any high-value purchases, including electronics and designer goods.
• Keep the contact details of your travel insurance provider handy or securely stored, so you can reach them immediately if an in-flight theft unfortunately happens to you. 

Many travellers assume aircraft cabins are safe because with so many eyes around, who would dare steal? However, thefts often happens while passengers are asleep, distracted, or away from their seats. The overhead locker or under-seat bag are also accessible to anyone nearby.

To make matters worse, there are no international rules requiring airlines to install CCTV or assign in-flight security staff. Privacy and staffing concerns have stopped governments from mandating these measures, says the Hong Kong Security Bureau. That means passengers are largely responsible for protecting their own belongings.

Without Travel Insurance, you’re left to face the costs alone. Replacing lost items, buying clothes, or booking extra accommodation while sorting out paperwork like police reports, official confirmations, and possibly legal support can add up quickly.

How CCW Global travel insurance can help

A good travel insurance policy can help you recover the money you’ve lost and access emergency assistance if needed, allowing you to continue your trip with less stress.

As a bespoke insurance brokerage in Hong Kong, CCW Global provides access to policies from top providers like Starr Travel, AXA, AIG, CHUBB and FWD.

Using AXA Smart Traveller as an example, here’s a quick overview of what travel insurance might cover in relation to in-flight theft:

Coverage	Standard	Premier	Privilege
Baggage Loss	HK$ 3,000	HK$8,000	HK$15,000
Sub-limit per item	HK$ 500	HK$1,500	HK$2,000
Laptop Cover	Nil	HK$5,000	HK$5,000
Travel Document Loss	HK$ 1,000	HK$2,000	HK$3,000
Credit Card Loss	HK$ 1,000	HK$2,000l	HK$3,000

With various plans to choose from, you can pick the best option considering your needs and budget:

• A weekend getaway to Bali: If you’re travelling light with just a carry-on and no high-value items like laptops or jewellery, the Essential plan may be enough for medical and emergency services.
• A shopping trip to Tokyo: As you may carry designer bags, cash, or watches in your cabin luggage, it’s worth upgrading to the Extra or Supreme plan for higher limits on baggage loss and sub-limits for high-value goods.
• A business trip to Europe: Business class cabins can be prime targets for in-flight theft. If you’re carrying a laptop, confidential documents, and business funds, opt for a higher-tier policy with laptop and credit card cover.

CCW Global makes it easy to compare plans and find one that suits your needs and budget. Simply complete a short form to receive a free quote with a detailed comparison of all the leading plans.

How to file a travel insurance claim overseas

If you’re a victim of theft or lose your belongings while travelling, act quickly:

• File a police report at the location where the incident occurred, which is vital for all insurance claims.
• Ask the airline for a written confirmation of any loss or delay involving your luggage.
• Collect receipts, photos, and proof of ownership for stolen items. This will speed up your claim.
• Submit the documentation to your insurer as soon as possible, along with your policy number and claim form.

CCW Global can assist you every step of the way. Speak to their expert insurance brokers in Hong Kong for a free quote on travel insurance today.

About CCW

Header Image Credit: Kasto via Canva