No matter how much advance planning you do for a trip abroad, there are always some details that require last-minute handling. Some of them become routine, but they are important nonetheless. Read our tips for traveling abroad.
Footloose and Fancy Free
You don’t have to travel with a fixed itinerary or on a prescribed schedule. Yet, you want to give friends and family a general idea of where you plan to be, and when. Then, arrange to check in via email, telephone or social media on a regular basis. Depending on your specific destinations, you might also want to check in with the American Embassy in the cities you visit. Do this both upon arrival and as you depart. If your plans change drastically, let your at-home contacts know. Preferably, in advance or at least when you arrive at your new destination.
Protect Your Personal Information
Always protect your passport and travel documents. Safeguard the originals, but also make copies of your passport and visas, airline schedules, hotel confirmations, credit card numbers, and bank contact information. Keep the backup information in a safe place. Additionally, take advantage of hotel safes when available. Store important records in the cloud, readily accessible wherever there’s a secure internet connection. Also, you should list the names, addresses, and contact information (including telephone numbers, social media accounts, stateside addresses and relatives’ names) of the people you’re traveling with.
Keep a Stash of Cash
Nothing is more important than making sure you have an adequate supply of cash and credit. That doesn’t mean that you should carry a lot of cash with you, but you should always have some. Put it in a hidden pocket or money belt. Fortunately, there are many ways to assure that you have access to cash when you need it.
Most world travelers recommend that you travel with only $100-$150 in cash. You can get local currency at the airport when you land, or bring a small amount with you from home. Additionally, ATMs are available worldwide and are quite safe. However, use caution just as you would at home. Seek out reputable financial institutions and use their machines rather than using an ATM in a remote location. While American dollars are accepted in many places, it is more “friendly” to use local currency. Also, you will usually get a better rate. Money FCU is able to get foreign currency within a few business days. Just contact us before you leave and we can walk you through getting your money exchanged and delivered right to your door before you even leave.
Credit and Debit Cards
There’s no doubt that plastic is easier than cash when traveling abroad. However, not all cards are equally acceptable in foreign countries. We recommend carrying 2-3 different cards, both credit and debit, so you have multiple options. Some frequent travelers even maintain a separate bank account with a dedicated debit card specifically for ATM use. That would eliminate fraudulent access to your primary account if someone stole your card. Always give your financial institution advance notice of a trip abroad. It simplifies transactions, and lessens the possibility that a purchase will be flagged or refused as possible fraud. Planning a trip to a foreign country is exciting. Equally important is the financial planning aspect.
We hope you found these tips on traveling abroad helpful. Whatever you do, and wherever you go, have fun!
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If you have questions on traveling abroad or need assistance getting the most out of your accounts, call, chat, or email with us!
Each individualâs financial situation is unique and readers are encouraged to contact the Credit Union when seeking financial advice on the products and services discussed. This article is for educational purposes only; the authors assume no legal responsibility for the completeness or accuracy of the contents.
