Backpackers urged to get local advice

Those about to embark on a year abroad should seek local advice about the places they intend to visit, a travel expert has suggested.

Different nations have various rules when it comes to locking away baggage, according to a spokesperson for Trailfinders.

'We generally say that you should always comply with the local authority advice within the country or destination that you're visiting,' he said.

Following research from AA Travel that revealed Brits carry a collective £1bn in possessions in their backpacks, the spokesperson suggested that travellers shouldn't leave valuables in their luggage.

For example, gap-year travellers heading to the US would be advised to ensure their baggage is not locked away, as the authorities can become 'a bit overzealous' about security, the spokesperson noted.

However, he added that if travelling to South Africa the advice is somewhat different.

'In somewhere like Johannesburg, the local authority advice is that you should always lock your bags as best as possible,' he remarked.