Credit Card Tips for Travelers

As the famous credit card advertisement advises, “Don’t leave home without it.” Traveling light is the name of the game, and nothing lightens the load like a thin plastic credit card that can replace cash and traveler’s checks while also making financial logistics a cinch while you’re far away from home. But before you embark on your next trip, it is good idea to first make sure that you have the right card – and the appropriate procedures and precautions in place – to ensure smooth sailing and safe, easy access to your cash.

First of all, make sure that you have a system in place to pay your monthly credit card bills. Otherwise regardless of how carefully you plan your trip you may wind up unable to make timely payments, and that will add fees, penalties, and damage your credit score while potentially leaving you unable to use your card because of an overdue balance. Next, make sure your card is not going to expire while you’re still on the road. If that happens you may have a worthless card in your pocket while the new valid one sits collecting dust at home in your mail box.

Sometimes carrying an ATM card tied to your bank checking account is the most convenient plan, but depending upon your circumstances and financial situation you may want to just you a credit card – or take both pieces of plastic along for the ride. Regardless of which cards you decide to take, always find out if your card is accepted in the places you intend to visit. If you aren’t sure, ask your card company, bank, travel agent, or a travel information office located in the city or town you plan to visit. While you’re at it, make sure that your personal identification number or PIN is updated so that you can use the card to access quick cash from ATM machines.

Last but not least, make photocopies of any cards you intend to pack along on the trip, remembering to copy both sides of the card. Give one photocopy to a trusted friend or family member so that they can retrieve your card information if your credit card is lost or stolen. Put the other one in a safe place and take it with you, but do not stash it in the same place as your actual cards. If you carry cards in your wallet, for instance, carry the photocopy someplace else or leave it locked in a hotel safe. That way if your wallet is lost or stolen you will still have copies of the cards elsewhere, and that will help you immensely when it is time to contact your credit card company and get a replacement issued and sent to you.
Offshore Pro Group