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Organising and setting off on a holiday is among life’s greatest pleasures, yet occasionally, unforeseen circumstances can emerge. Flights might be cancelled, hotels overbooked, or in the most unfortunate scenario, you could become a victim of crime.

While remaining vigilant is crucial, there are several precautions you can implement before departure to ensure your possessions and personal effects stay protected at the airport and during your travels. Shahzad Ali, security expert and CEO of Get Licensed, revealed his leading recommendations for safeguarding your luggage while travelling. He urged passengers to steer clear of brightly coloured luggage at all costs, as it may draw unwanted attention.

The travel specialist cautioned passengers flying with major carriers this summer, including Jet2, Ryanair, easyJet and TUI, and encouraged them to select a black suitcase instead.

He said: “Although a new and colourful suitcase may look more fashionable, it won’t only be attractive to you. It’s best to choose a more common-looking suitcase, and if possible, a worn-out one – as to not stand out from the crowd – and with it, a high-quality padlock.

“This can make a big difference in keeping your items safe. You can add an identifier, such as a ribbon or sticker, to avoid getting your luggage mistaken for someone else’s whilst still remaining subtle.”

He offered another practical safety recommendation: “When packing, organise your items in three categories: extremely valuable (such as documents, credit cards, mobile phones and larger sums of cash), valuable (such as jewellery and other expensive items) and less valuable (such as clothes and self-care products).

“The extremely valuable items that don’t need to be used often at the airport should be placed in a money belt that will stay close to your body at all times until you reach your destination.

“The ones that need to be used at the airport should be placed in a small handbag or fanny pack that will stay in front of you at all times.

“When they’re not needed any longer, these items should be placed in the money belt. Larger valuables, such as laptops or tablets, can be placed in your carry-on luggage.

“Valuables such as jewellery should be strategically hidden among less valuable items, such as clothes, in your checked luggage.”