Travel Tips to Protect You Financially

Travel Tips to Protect You Financially

No matter if you are traveling to another state to tour homes for your relocation or traveling abroad for a little vacation, it is important to protect your credit! Below are some great tips by USAA Magazine to keep you financially safe on your journey:

1.       Share your plans. Banks look out for purchases that vary from your usual spending pattern. So, whether you rent a car in Tahiti or make a $3 gas purchase  in another state, your action could trigger a fraud alert at your bank. To avoid hassles, notify your card company of your travel plans.

2.       Factor in fees. Before deciding which cards to take on your trip, study how much each charges for cash advances, ATM withdrawals and foreign transactions. A little homework can save you money.

3.       Slim down your wallet. Decide which cards to leave behind and lock them up. You’ll eliminate bulk and secure your cards.

4.       Say “Local currency, please.” When abroad, you’ll be asked if you’d like to have your card transaction processed in U.S. dollars. Choose local currency instead. Why? Merchants may tack their own currency conversion charges on top of your card’s foreign-transaction fee.

5.       Make copies, and store them safely. If your cards are lost or stolen, you’ll need your card and bank contact information handy so you can act promptly. Scan or copy both sides of the cards, but don’t keep the copies in your luggage, wallet or purse (in case of theft.) Instead, leave them with a trusted friend or relative you can contact immediately.

I hope you found these tips by USAA useful and that you have a great time on your next adventure!

Ready to plan a trip to the Richmond area to tour homes for your next move? Then contact me, Shannon Milligan at Home Sweet Henrico with Keller Williams Realty, and let me light your way to home sweet home on the Henrico County Real Estate or Richmond Real Estate market today!