Planning a vacation is exciting, but it’s just as important to plan for your financial safety. Taking a few simple precautions can help ensure your accounts stay secure, whether you’re exploring locally or traveling abroad.
Financial Security Tips for Before and During Your Trip
- Notify your bank ahead of time – If traveling abroad, let your bank know where and how long you’ll be away. This helps your bank anticipate unusual transactions so your card isn’t shut off unexpectedly. In addition, it’s helpful to provide your bank with a current phone number and email address to contact you if out-of-pattern transactions occur.
- Travel smart – Be sure to clean out your wallet and take out credit cards and debit cards you don’t anticipate using on your trip. In addition, if you will be traveling across borders, order foreign currency from your bank ahead of time. Having a small variety of payment methods is crucial in case a card terminal is down and you need to make a purchase.
- Stay alert – Awareness is key if you plan on using foreign ATM terminals or paying with your debit card. Pay attention to the card reading devices you use, and if anything looks questionable, pay with cash. Also, when you are using a PIN, make sure to cover the pin pad with your free hand so no one can look over your shoulder.
- Monitor your account – Occasionally log in to your mobile banking app to review your accounts for any suspicious transactions. Make sure to either use cellular data or a private Wi-Fi network since public Wi-Fi is susceptible to hackers. If you notice fraudulent activity, turn off your card if possible and notify your bank.
Prepare ahead of time so you can enjoy your vacation with confidence – knowing your money is safe. Speak with a banker to help get your finances ready for vacation.
