8 Ways To Keep Money Safe While Traveling

Planning on traveling this year? Keep your money safe and out of sight with these tips.

Many of us anxiously await a chance to travel and get away from daily life. From planning the getaway to finding excursions to researching the best hotels, we think we have it all covered. However, one detail that is often overlooked is how to keep money and funds safe.

With these tips in your toolkit, you’ll be well on your way to making your next retreat as stress-free as can be.

Keep Your Money Safe

Choose The Right Card

Consider using a credit card as your primary payment method. Most credit cards have zero fraud liability; so long as you report unauthorized transactions right away, you’re not liable for the charges. If you can, pack two cards with different payment networks as extra security.

A+FCU offers many credit card options from both Visa® and American Express®.

Have Contact Info Handy

If you’ve lost your card or it’s been stolen, it’s important to contact the card issuer as soon as possible. Be sure you know where to find their contact information or store it on your phone ahead of time.

It’s also a good idea to reach out to card issuers before you leave to share travel plans and avoid having your card unnecessarily flagged.

Keep Some Cash

It’s a good idea to have cash readily available for instances where cards aren’t accepted or in case of an emergency. Try to avoid pulling money out in public and don’t draw attention to yourself while doing so.

If traveling abroad, it’s encouraged to have a mix of currency. U.S. dollars can usually be exchanged with ease if needed.

Don’t Put All Your Eggs In One Basket

Having all of your money stored in one spot is risky. Don’t put your wallet containing all your money and cards in your luggage or your purse. Have a little stashed away in different places. In the event one is lost or stolen, you’ll have a backup.

Find The Best ATM

Need cash? Choose your ATM wisely. It’s best to avoid using secluded ATMs, because they might have a card skimmer or shimmer installed. Trade convenience for security and only use ATMs inside financial institutions.

If you’re traveling in the U.S., use our ATM Alliances with your A+FCU debit card for fee and surcharge-free options.

Have A Backup Plan

Do you have a backup plan to easily make purchases without a physical card? Is there a friend or family member you can contact if you’re in a bind? This is especially important if you’re traveling abroad; it’s best to be over-prepared then under.

Dress Accordingly

Thieves can spot wallets and purses from a mile away. Wear pants with zippers or go for the jacket with concealed pockets on the inside; opt for security over style. Limiting the cards and cash that you’re carrying and placing payment methods in an inconspicuous area can help keep your money safe.

Monitor Accounts

This is something we should do consistently, but it’s especially important to monitor purchases while on vacation. Set up eAlerts to track your accounts and check with other financial institutions or credit card companies to see if they offer similar products. Pay close attention and report unauthorized transactions as soon as possible.