TRAVELLERS posting topless shots as an expression of liberation at destinations around the world could be putting their freedom at risk.

The Topless Tour started as an Instagram blog by a group of adventurous London-based students while they were travelling in Norway, and has since grown into a global phenomenon.

Travellers from around the world have joined in the trend, sharing shots of themselves sans shirt via The Topless Tour’s Twitter, Facebook and Instagram pages.

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But a travel safety expert is warning that – like the planking fad that took over social media in 2011 – topless touring could have unintended consequences.

Phil Sylvester, safety specialist for Travel Insurance Direct, said in many places, going topless is considered to be indecent exposure and could land travellers in trouble with the authorities.

“If you’re uncovered, you may not be covered from a travel insurance perspective either,” he said.

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“Although it is great to feel free and liberated when travelling the world, if you get detained or arrested by police for your topless selfie and miss a flight or a pre-paid tour, your insurance will unlikely pay your claim – simply and understandably because the event is a result of illegal behaviour.”

His warning comes after a recent crackdown by authorities on travellers daring to bare at Peru’s most famous tourist attraction, Machu Picchu.

And some countries, including the United Arab Emirates, have introduced penalties for skimpy swimwear, let alone nudity.

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Mr Sylvester said it may surprise some that even in Brazil – known for its skimpy bikinis and Carnival costumes – going topless is illegal.

He encouraged travellers to take their own pictures if they wanted – but to do their research first and use commonsense to avoid trouble.

“It is important to be careful with these sorts of social trends – what is ‘fun’ to you might be really offensive to another culture. After all, experiencing new and different cultures is a big part of the joy of travel,” he said.

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“And while that Insta pic might get 20 likes, the photographic momen could also equal a serious fine, or jail time.

“So have a bit of fun, but keep it in check. Make sure you are in a remote location, and be aware of local laws.”

For Australian Government travel advice updates, which includes information about local laws, visit smartraveller.gov.au

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PHIL SYLVESTER’S TIPS FOR TAKING PART IN THE TOPLESS TOUR (WITHOUT GETTING IN TROUBLE)

Know the law

Research the laws and regulations of the country and region you’re visiting. If there are strict clothing rules in place and imprisonment is on the cards, it is probably best to keep your top on.

Respect the culture

Read up about the culture where you’re going and steer clear of anything that’s likely to be considered offensive.

Get away from it all

Opt for a remote, and of course picturesque, location. Your photos will not only show off how adventurous you’ve been, but the absence of crowds will allow you to spend time lining up the shot rather than snapping it in a mad panic.

Pick your timing

Early morning or late at night are your best bet to avoid getting sprung half-naked by a surprise busload of tourists.

Leave something to the imagination

Front-on topless snaps could get you kicked off social media sites, so to make your holiday memory last online, bare your back and make the destination the star of the shot.

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