Safety tips for the business travellers
The travel and hospitality industry has been among the hardest hit economically by the Covid–19 pandemic. Now, with the rollout of highly effective vaccines and improved therapeutics, economies around the world are beginning to stir, and travel — both business and leisure — is picking up again.
Travel is experiencing a gradual recovery and businesses are back to taking people around the globe, into foreign cities with different time zones, languages and customs. While you prep for getting business done, it’s important to also prioritise travel safety precautions against a backdrop of increased worldwide political and social unrest, severe weather events, or healthcare crises:
Thoroughly research your destination
In addition to visa requirements, COVID-19-related entry requirements, local culture and the seasonal temperatures, travellers should also look into destination-specific perils. These can range from earmarking unsafe areas to avoid, to keeping abreast of possible local unrest and tracking potential major climate events.
Have an emergency plan in place
Keep numbers programmed on your phone for local police, your country’s embassy, your family, friends and your office. Give copies of your itinerary and travel documentation to your family and office staff and keep copies in several locations while you travel — including in your luggage and hotel safe — for easy access.
Take the proper health precautions
In addition to getting the required vaccinations for your destination, bring extra prescription medications. Carry a first aid kit for minor incidents.
Map your local transportation
Be aware of travel scams such as inflated cab fares and counterfeit “discounted” train or bus tickets. Pre-book your rides to and from the airport and use only accredited car, ride-share or rental services, where the price and accountability are clear. If you’re using public transportation, familiarise yourself with the routes.
Take precautions against common theft
Visitors can be easy targets for pickpockets and scammers. Seemingly harmless requests (to sign a petition or buy a friendship bracelet) can be excuses to distract you while an accomplice takes your wallet or belongings. Secure your passport and valuables away from easy access and keep only a small amount of currency in handy pockets. Be hypervigilant about strangers — even innocent-looking children or families — who approach you.
Don't leave your bags in a hire car, which can be a focus for thieves. Don’t let seemingly “helpful” locals watch or carry your luggage for you.
Take steps to avoid being targeted for violent crime
Foreigners often stand out, so dont make youself a target.
- Use your planning tools and/or trusted local advisors to identify and stay clear of dangerous areas.
- Don’t hang around on the street with your mobile phone or an open map. Go into a busy café or shop to plan your route.
- Avoid over-indulging in alcohol, which makes you more vulnerable.
- Don’t flash a lot of currency or credit cards.
- Steer clear of public disputes, demonstrations, or political rallies, where you might become an unintended victim of hostility
Guard against cybercrime
Make sure to connect your devices to the internet via a secure VPN. Avoid using free Wi-Fi networks in coffee shops or other public places; these are notoriously insecure and may offer cyber criminals a way to get your personal information or even hack into your company’s network.
Understand your employer’s insurance against travel hazards
Despite precautions, the unexpected can happen — from minor theft to a major medical emergency. While business travel insurance can’t prevent foreign mishaps, it can help mitigate the misfortunes.
Your employer’s travel insurance is a partner in your business trip. If that insurance is with Chubb, you’ll be able to shorten your trip prep time and rest assured with access to useful online planning tools and global health and security intelligence, as well as Chubb Assistance – a 24/7 Emergency Assistance for quick response in the event of theft, accident or illness — wherever you’re travelling. And if you’re extending your foreign business trip for personal or family pleasure, your Chubb cover can respond in the same way.
The benefit(s) payable under eligible certificate/policy/product is(are) protected by PIDM up to limits. Please refer to PIDM’s TIPS brochure or contact Chubb Insurance Malaysia Berhad or PIDM (visit www.pidm.gov.my)
This content is brought to you by Chubb Insurance Malaysia Berhad, Registration No. 197001000564 (9827-A) (“Chubb”) as a convenience to readers and is not intended to constitute advice or recommendations upon which a reader may rely. Any references to insurance cover are general in nature only and may not suit your particular circumstances. Chubb does not take into account your personal objectives, financial situation or needs and any insurance cover referred to is subject to the terms, conditions and exclusions set out in the relevant policy wording. Please obtain and read carefully the relevant insurance policy before deciding to acquire any insurance product. A policy wording can be obtained at www.chubb.com/my, through your broker or by contacting any of the Chubb offices or Chubb agents. Chubb makes no warranty or guarantee about the accuracy, completeness, or adequacy of this content. It is the responsibility of the reader to evaluate the quality and accuracy of material herein.
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