The festive season is a time for celebration, travel, and reconnecting with loved ones. But while we’re busy enjoying holidays, attending events, and taking well-earned breaks, it’s also a period when our homes and personal belongings are more vulnerable. 

Thieves know many families are away, and the rush of parties, shopping, and travel can increase the likelihood of accidents and loss. 

Taking a few proactive steps—and seeking advice from your insurance broker or adviser—can make all the difference in keeping your possessions protected.

Festive Season Risks You Might Overlook

1. Empty homes attract opportunistic thieves
   With many households travelling for days or weeks at a time, vacant properties become easy targets. Even simple signs like an overflowing letterbox, dark windows, or no car in the driveway can catch the attention of would-be intruders.
2. Holiday shopping increases exposure
   Cars and handbags often become temporary storage spaces for new purchases. Leaving gifts or valuables in your vehicle, even briefly, increases the risk of break-ins. Shopping centres and busy car parks are among the most common locations for theft during December.
3. Travel means more items to protect
   Laptops, tablets, cameras, jewellery, and suitcases full of personal items come along for the ride when we travel. Whether you’re visiting relatives interstate or heading overseas, moving from place to place increases the chance of items being misplaced, damaged, or stolen.
4. Festivities can lead to accidental damage
   More visitors in the home, extra decorations, cooking, and celebrations all increase the risk of accidental damage—from spills on carpets to broken electronics and backyard mishaps.

How to Keep Your Home and Valuables Safe

Protecting your belongings doesn’t need to be complicated. A combination of simple precautions and the right insurance cover can give you peace of mind throughout the holiday period.

Secure your home before you leave
Ensure doors and windows are locked, hide valuables from plain sight, and set timers on lights to give the appearance someone is home. Ask a trusted neighbour to clear mail or check the property occasionally. If you have an alarm system or security cameras, make sure they are working properly.

Protect your car and shopping
Never leave gifts or bags visible through your car windows. Lock your vehicle at all times, even in your driveway or at service stations. When shopping, store items in the boot rather than on the seats.

Be careful while travelling
Keep valuables in your carry-on luggage where possible. Use hotel safes, avoid placing expensive items in checked bags, and remain alert when moving through crowded airports, train stations, or festivals.

Reduce risks at home when entertaining
Secure loose rugs, keep pathways clear, supervise children around decorations and cooking appliances, and ensure your smoke alarms are working. Outdoor gatherings should also be checked for trip hazards or weather-related risks.

Check Your Insurance Before the Festive Rush

The most important step you can take is reviewing your insurance policies before the holiday season begins. Many people don’t realise their current cover may not extend to accidental damage, items taken outside the home, or valuables lost during travel. Underinsurance is also a major issue—your belongings may be worth far more than your last estimate.

Speaking with your Insurance Adviser helps ensure:

• Your home and contents insurance is up to date
• High-value items like jewellery or electronics are properly listed
• You understand what is (and isn’t) covered when travelling
• You have protection against accidental damage
• Your policy limits match the true replacement value of your belongings

Peace of Mind Starts With a Conversation

The festive season should be a time of joy, not stress. By taking sensible precautions and reviewing your insurance now, you can relax knowing your home and possessions are protected—wherever the holidays take you. Reach out to your insurance broker or adviser today to ensure you have the right cover in place for a safe and worry-free festive season.

If this article has inspired you to think about your unique situation and, more importantly, what you and your family are going through right now, please get in touch with your advice professional.

This information does not consider any person’s objectives, financial situation, or needs. Before making a decision, you should consider whether it is appropriate in light of your particular objectives, financial situation, or needs.

(Feedsy Exclusive)