Everywhere You Go: How Portable Possessions Keep Your Belongings Safe

Do you worry about losing or damaging your valuable items while on the move? If so, Portable Possessions Insurance from Auto&General Insurance is designed to protect your belongings – whether it’s your laptop, smartphone or expensive jewellery. This coverage provides the peace of mind you need to protect yourself against increasing risks of theft and accidents. 

Portable belongings: risks and most common claims

When it comes to Portable Possessions Insurance in South Africa, the most common claims tend to be for items such as smartphones, cameras, laptops, tablets, and jewellery. These everyday essentials are more prone to risks, particularly as they are often carried around outside the home where the chances of loss, theft, or damage increase. According to South African Police Service (SAPS) crime statistics, theft is among the most reported crimes, especially in urban areas and crowded spaces.

Mobile phones and electronics make up a significant portion of claims. Jewellery is still also a common target for theft and robbery, especially in mugging or home break-in incidents. Hypothetically, imagine walking through a crowded market with your mobile phone in hand, and a pickpocket manages to steal it. Without Personal Possession Insurance, you’d be left having to make a costly replacement.

Another common event is accidental damage – you’re working in a café and accidentally spill a drink on your laptop. A Portable Possessions Insurance policy would cover the repair or replacement cost, sparing you the financial stress of such incidents.

Threats to your portable possessions

1. Theft and robbery

High crime rates in South Africa make theft one of the most significant risks to personal possessions. Items like laptops, smartphones, and jewellery are prime targets due to their high value and ease of resale. Public places such as malls, markets, public transportation and even restaurants are hot spots for crime. According to a recent report by eNCA, SAPS reported that an average of 189 cell phones are stolen daily in South Africa.

2. Accidental damage

Accidents happen when we least expect them, and when they do, portable possessions are often the unfortunate victims. Spilling liquid on your laptop, dropping your smartphone, or even having your tablet crushed under furniture are all everyday risks. Insurance helps cover the costs of repairs or replacement when accidents strike.

3. Vehicle break-ins

Leaving valuables inside your car, even for a short period, can result in theft. In South Africa, vehicle break-ins are a common occurrence. A quick stop at the shop, leaving your smartphone on the passenger seat, could easily result in a broken window and a missing phone. Insurance ensures you’re covered for such unfortunate circumstances.

4. Fire damage

Fire poses a significant risk to portable possessions, especially in residential areas. A fire could not only destroy your home but everything inside it, including portable items such as laptops, phones, and jewellery. South Africa has experienced a number of large-scale fire incidents in both urban and remote areas in recent years, highlighting the importance of comprehensive insurance coverage.

5. Loss during travel

Travelling increases the likelihood of loss, theft, or damage to your belongings. Airports, public transport, and hotels are all high-risk areas for the theft of portable possessions. A report by SITA in 2023 found that the rate of lost, damaged, or delayed luggage nearly doubled as air traffic rebounded after the COVID-19 pandemic, emphasising the risks associated with travelling with expensive items.  

The 5 most common portable possessions claims

Insurance plays a crucial role in protecting personal belongings from the risks that come with daily use. Here are some of the most common portable possessions items that you can insure

1. Cell phone theft

Cell phones, particularly smartphones, are among the most frequently claimed-for items due to their high value and constant presence everywhere. South Africa, like many other countries, experiences high rates of cell phone theft. Thieves target smartphones due to their resale value and the sensitive personal data stored on them. Whether stolen in a crowded public space or stolen from your home, mobile phone theft remains a top reason for claims.

2. Laptop and tablet damage

Accidental damage to laptops and tablets is another leading cause of claims. These items are highly portable, making them vulnerable to spills, drops, and other forms of damage. Whether you accidentally spill your drink over your laptop or drop your tablet while travelling, insurance helps cover the cost of repairs or replacement.

3. Jewellery loss or theft

Jewellery, in particular expensive items such as wedding rings, watches, and designer pieces, is a common target for theft or loss. The sentimental attachment and value of these possessions make them a frequent insurance claim. A person may lose a watch while travelling, or worse, fall victim to a robbery where thieves target visible valuables. In such instances, insurance helps cover the financial loss of cherished belongings.

4. Camera equipment damage

Photographers, both hobbyists and professionals, frequently claim for damage to their cameras and related equipment. High-end cameras and lenses are expensive, and accidental damage while travelling or on location can result in substantial repair or replacement costs.

5. Sports equipment damage

Sports equipment such as golf clubs, bicycles, and skis are also common items covered by this insurance. These items are expensive and are frequently exposed to risks of damage or theft. Insurance claims can help cover the cost of repairing or replacing expensive sports gear in the event of an unfortunate incident.

How Portable Possessions Insurance covers you when you’re on the go

Many people are unclear about what exactly falls under Portable Possessions Insurance and how this type of coverage can protect their valuables while they’re away from home. Whether you’re commuting to work, travelling, or just going about your day, it’s important to understand how this insurance works and what items it covers to avoid any unnecessary financial losses.

Possession Insurance covers a wide range of belongings you carry with you, such as electronics, jewellery, and even clothing. This insurance covers these valuables against loss, theft, or accidental damage while you’re outside of the home, giving you reassurance wherever you go.

Who needs it: People who frequently travel, use high-value items, or spend time in busy crowded areas and who want financial protection in case of unforeseen accidents or theft.

Commonly covered items: Possessions such as smartphones, laptops, cameras, tablets, and sports equipment. Clothing and jewellery can also be covered under some policies, so it’s important to check with your insurer for specific inclusions.

Policy limits and exclusions: Some items may only be included up to a certain amount, and exclusions may apply, such as not including intentional damage or wear and tear.

How to make a claim: In the event of accidental damage, loss, or theft, make a report as soon as possible and provide proof of ownership to ensure a smooth process and increase the chances of a successful outcome.

Specified and unspecified items

When insuring portable possessions, it’s important to be aware of what’s considered a specified or unspecified item. Being aware of the different categories will help ensure you’re adequately covered in case of damage or loss.

Specified items are high-value possessions that you list individually on your insurance policy. You need to declare the full value and, in most cases, provide proof of ownership. Specifying items allows for more comprehensive coverage so they’re insured to their full value, even if they exceed policy limits.

Unspecified items are lower-value belongings that do not have to be individually listed on your policy. These items are usually covered up to a certain value threshold set by your insurer. These items can include clothing, basic electronics, or less valuable jewellery. This option may not cover high-value goods, so it’s important that you know the value limits.

Get a Portable Possessions Insurance quote

Protect your prized possessions today. Get an Auto and General Insurance quote for Portable Possessions Insurance and be safe in the knowledge that your items are covered wherever you go. Our team is ready to answer any questions you may have.

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Sources:

1  eNCA: https://www.enca.com/news/average-189-cell-phones-are-stolen-daily-sa-police

2 SAPS: https://www.saps.gov.za/services/downloads/2024/2024-2025_-_1st_Quarter_WEB.pdf

3 Briefly: Mishandling of luggage soars as air travel rebounds: study - Briefly.co.za

Disclaimer: The information in this article is provided for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, legal, or medical advice.