As you plan your next getaway, remember to plan ahead when it comes to your finances. Here are common money mistakes travelers make — and what to do instead to keep your trip running smoothly.

 

To Do: Notify your bank and credit card companies of your travel plans.

Mistake: You’re out of state, or worse, out of the country, and your card is declined. Your bank or credit card company likely flagged the transaction as suspicious because it is outside your usual spending habits.

Best practice: Let your bank and credit card providers know where and when you will be traveling. Some may allow you to set a travel notice quickly through online or mobile banking.

 

To Do: Set up transaction alerts.

Mistake: Fraud can go unnoticed if you are not regularly monitoring your accounts.

Best Practice: Set up transaction alerts and spending limits through your bank’s online banking or mobile banking app to help you catch suspicious activity quickly.

Security Bank customers can add another layer of protection with the Card Suite Lite app. Use it to:

  • Freeze and unfreeze your card
  • Block international or certain types of merchant transactions
  • Set spending limits
  • Control how, when and where someone can use your card

 

To Do: Carry multiple forms of payment.

Mistake: Bringing only one card increases your risk of stress and hardship if it’s lost, stolen or blocked.

Best Practice: Travel with at least two payment methods so you have a backup option in case of a card block or other emergency.

Tip: Consider setting up a Mobile Wallet

With a Mobile Wallet, you can make secure payments without the need to carry physical cards, reducing the risk of loss or theft. Use it to:

  • Encrypt your card data
  • Make contactless payments
  • Protect against card skimmers or physical loss of a card
  • Easily manage and protect your cards while traveling

For added protection, consider using a designated travel card or account with a limited balance.

 

Traveling out of the country? Add these to-do list items.

To-Do: Make sure your prepaid or gift cards are for international use

Mistake: You discover your gift card only works domestically, after you have left the country.

Best Practice: Before purchasing a prepaid or gift card, confirm that it’s eligible for international transactions.

 

To-Do: Set up transportation and travel apps in advance

Mistake: You are abroad in a taxi, but the app will not verify your card; the driver does not accept cash, and your phone does not have a connection.

Best practice: Download and fully set up any transportation or booking apps before you leave. Be sure to complete card verification and account setup to avoid getting stranded without a way to pay or connect. This includes adding your payment methods, verifying your cards, and setting up any necessary account features. By doing this in advance, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free travel experience.

 

To Do: Exchange your currency before you travel.

Mistake: You wait until you’re at the airport or abroad, only to get hit with high fees and poor exchange rates.

Best practice: Order foreign currency before your trip from your bank to get a better rate and avoid unnecessary fees.