Money and financial safety while traveling
Money and security is always a concern when traveling. A few common sense tips will help:
- Bring the minimum number of credit cards, and identification necessary.
When I travel I carry two credit/ATM cards and my husband carries two different ones. I carry my driver's license and
Medical Insurance card and that's all. Everything else stays at home. - Make copies of, passports, credit/ ATM cards (front and back)
or write down all information and keep the info in a separate secure place. In case of loss you have all the info needed. - Inform the banks, and credit / ATM card companies of your travel itinerary.
Inquire about international transaction fees when you do. Some banks charge up to 3% or min $10 fee. Some banks have no fees at all. - Apply for a pin # for your credit cards.
Europe is way ahead of us in credit card security and a pin # will help avoid delays in transactions. - Exchange money in reputable Exchange Locations and use ATM's in Banks.
The US dollar is not a universal currency, Imagine trying to use Euros at your local fast food restaurant. - Don't bring or withdraw large amount of cash. Credit cards are accepted most places.
- When withdrawing money from an ATM try odd amounts to get bill broken down. Banks will not usually make change.