Spring is in the air, and people are gearing up for travel season. There are unlimited sites and articles with hacks, from packing more in your suitcase to getting tickets for popular tours.
I want to share 5 financial travel tips. These are not focused on getting hot travel deals, but they will help protect you financially.
- Credit cards are widely used by travelers and often replace cash transactions. To keep your card working, notify the credit card company of your travel plans. This will prevent charges from being rejected. Credit card companies have become sophisticated in their efforts to detect and prevent fraudulent charges. If a charge comes through that is not typical for your account or from a region other than where you live, the system may flag the card and decline the charge.
- Keep your credit card number and phone number to report a lost or stolen card with you while you travel. This will be helpful should you need to replace a card while traveling.
- Take a backup credit card with you. This may come in handy if a credit card is lost or stolen or if charges are rejected, or if you exceed your limit – excess spending is a topic for another article!
- Important documents such as medical insurance cards and legal documents may be needed while on vacation. Realistically, a suitcase offers limited space for packing, and you wouldn’t want to lose this important information. Save space and worry by storing your documents electronically. Electronic storage allows you to access information from any computer, laptop, or mobile device.
- There are programs like LastPass, a password manager application, that offer document storage. Remember to let your traveling companions know how to access these documents.
- Try to avoid using public Wi-Fi. Even though it is free, it may cost you dearly. Most free Wi-Fi spots, like those available in hotels or at the local drink shops, do not protect you from bad actors. If you must use it, do not access any financial sites or use a VPN (Virtual Private Network).
- Use your mobile device to take a picture of your driver’s license, passport, other ID, and travel itinerary to store digitally. This will come in handy if your wallet is lost or stolen.
- Leave a copy of your travel itinerary with family or friends at home and check in with them to let them know of your progress and that you are doing well.
- Be inconspicuous – blend in. Try not to draw attention to yourself as a tourist. Wear clothing, hats, etc., that help you look like the locals. Protect your wallet and other financial documents from pickpockets who often roll tourist pots looking for unsuspecting travelers.
- Avoid viewing maps in public areas. When getting directions, be mindful of who you are asking – is it a hotel employee or someone passing on the street.
Following these tips will prepare you for a wonderful adventure and travel season! Bon Voyage!
