Protecting Your Finances: 8 Tips for Safe Travel

When planning for vacation, it’s normal to cross things off a checklist of what to pack and tasks to do before you leave for your trip. One thing you should add to your list is knowing how you can protect your finances and money while you travel. These tips will help you secure your cards and cash while you travel to let you fully enjoy your vacation.

Call In Advance

Let your credit card companies know you are traveling. This will keep them from automatically flagging your purchases in another state or country as fraudulent. That way you can avoid the hassle of having to contact your credit card company or losing access to a card.

Know the Fees & Your Cards

If you are traveling internationally, look into the fees that are associated with international card use. If you may be spending a large amount of money, it’s also important to know your PINs and all spending limits. Knowing this information will allow you to access your money in certain locations, and knowing the limits will inform what you can withdraw.

Set Up Account Alerts & Card Controls

One of the many account features available with a Pioneer account and debit card is Card Controls & Alerts. These controls allow you to turn your card on and off at any time through the Pioneer banking app, enable three regions to use the card, or enable/disable international use. You can also choose the types of merchants that your card can be used at, what types of transactions are allowed, and set spending limits. Additionally, you can set alerts for specific triggers like types of transactions or international uses. Using these controls and alerts can give you more flexibility and confidence when traveling and spending.

Be Selective With What You Bring

When traveling, try to limit the amount of money you bring. Leaving some cash and your other cards in your hotel room safe or vacation home can provide a back-up plan wallet or money is lost or stolen.

Store Your Money Safely

Depending on where you travel, you may be more likely to encounter pickpockets and people looking to steal from tourists and travelers. Storing your wallet and cell phone in your front pocket will make you more aware of it if it’s taken or missing. Alternatively, you can store your important items in a bag or purse to keep them out of reach. If you do bring cash, be sure to store it securely as well, and avoid displaying that you have a significant amount of cash in public.

Have Important Information Handy

In the unfortunate event that you end up losing your credit or debit cards, it will be helpful to have their contact information on hand. Whether you take pictures of your credit cards or add the customer service numbers to your phone contacts, make sure you have them available. If you are traveling internationally, it may be worth setting up someone at home with information as well so they can call and cancel if you are unable to call them internationally.

Currency Exchange

When traveling internationally, you’ll want to know where you can convert your currency or do so ahead of time. You can visit a local bank branch to do this, or you can search for currency exchange stations where you are visiting. Having a plan for currency conversion ahead of time can keep you from stressing to form a plan after you arrive.

Review Your Purchases

In too many cases, lost or stolen cards are noticed well after the card has been taken or misplaced. This can be prevented by taking inventory of your cards and reviewing your account activity every day. This can also help you to realize how much you may be spending on vacation if you are trying to adhere to a budget while traveling.