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What to Do If Your Phone or Passport Is Stolen Abroad

Having your phone or passport stolen abroad is stressful, but a calm, step-by-step response limits the damage. Here’s what to do and how travel insurance can help.

Table of Contents

If your phone is stolen

Secure your accounts. Use another device to lock or erase your phone through its tracking service, and change passwords for email, banking and social media.
Contact your mobile provider to block the SIM and the device, so nobody can run up bills.
Contact your bank to freeze cards and block payment apps if they were on the phone.
Report the theft to the local police and get a written report. You’ll need it to claim. Keep the phone’s IMEI number if you have it.

If your passport is stolen or lost

Report it to the local police and get a copy of the report.
Contact the nearest British embassy, high commission or consulate. They can help you apply for an emergency travel document to get home or continue your trip.
Report the passport as lost or stolen to HM Passport Office so it can be cancelled.
Keep copies of your passport details, which makes the process quicker. Take a photo of the photo page before you go.

You may need evidence of identity and travel plans, and there will be a fee for emergency documents. Check the FCDO guidance for your country.

Claiming on your travel insurance

Travel insurance can help with:

The value of a stolen phone, subject to the single-item limit and excess
The cost of replacing a passport and emergency travel document
Extra accommodation or travel costs if you’re delayed, depending on your policy

Contact your insurer as soon as possible and keep every receipt. See how to make a travel insurance claim.

Evidence you’ll need

Police report with a crime reference number
Proof of ownership and value, such as a receipt, bank statement or photos
Receipts for emergency documents and other extra costs

See what evidence to keep.

Common reasons claims fail

The item was left unattended. See common exclusions.
The theft wasn’t reported to police promptly.
The phone’s value exceeds the single-item limit.

If you carry expensive gadgets, check the limits or consider an add-on. See which add-ons are worth it.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a police report to claim for a stolen phone?

Yes, in most cases. Report the theft promptly and keep a copy of the report.

Will travel insurance pay for a replacement passport?

Often it covers the cost of an emergency travel document and related extra costs, subject to the policy terms. Check your wording.

What if my phone is stolen but I left it on a table?

Many policies exclude items left unattended or not kept with reasonable care, so a claim might be refused.

Is my phone covered up to its full value?

Not always. Single-item limits apply, so you may be paid less than the replacement cost.

Related travel insurance guides

This article is general information, not financial or insurance advice. Always read the policy documents before you buy.