How many days until vacation? We know you’re eagerly counting down the days. When you work hard throughout the year, you deserve some fun, relaxation, and adventure. But even on your dream vacation, it’s important to plan wisely and take the necessary precautions when it comes to protecting your money.
From pickpockets to stolen information, here’s how you can keep your money safe:
Just like your suitcase, you also need to pack your wallet for vacation. Take along only the cards and money you’ll be using on your trip and leave the rest at home. Remove any cards with your Social Security Number and leave your checkbook in a safe place.
Using cash instead of credit while traveling can be great for limiting exactly how much you spend, but carrying too much cash is dangerous. Instead of withdrawing cash before your trip, get cash only when you need it. With Kasasa, your ATM fees are reimbursed, so you don’t have to feel guilty heading to the nearest cash machine before your trip.
Before you insert your card into an ATM, make sure it’s not a fake. Unfortunately, you can often find these fake machines in high-traffic tourist spots. Using an ATM locator app can help you find the nearest authorized machine.
Many credit cards offer zero-liability, meaning you won’t have to worry about paying for unauthorized charges if your card is lost or stolen. Just be sure to alert your bank or credit card company that you’ll be making purchases out of town — they’ll ask for the cities you’ll be traveling to, as well as the dates you’ll be there so that they can monitor. Pack a backup credit card or two and keep them in the hotel safe just in case.
Because your debit card is directly linked to your checking account, it’s one of the most important items in your wallet. ATM and debit card transactions are protected under the Electronic Fund Transfer Act, but you’ll need to act fast (within two business days) to ensure you’re not liable for any fraudulent charges. Keep a close watch on your debit card and contact your bank right away if anything seems suspicious.
You work hard for your money, so use these tips to stay safe. With a few simple steps, you’ll be on your way to enjoying a worry-free vacation.
Check out some of our other travel tips: