While traveling, it’s important to keep copies of your credit card information separate from your physical cards. You should also take a photocopy of your passport along with your credit card.
Before you leave on your trip, notify your credit card company that you’ll be away so that your charges will not be declined. This way, you’ll also avoid any awkward situations while using your credit card while traveling. There are a few other things to keep in mind when using your credit card while traveling.
Notifying your credit card company before you leave on vacation
The best way to protect your credit card is to notify your credit card company before you go on vacation. By doing so, you will minimize the risk of someone using your card without your permission. Also, credit card companies are constantly on the lookout for credit card fraud, so setting up a travel notice will reduce the chances of them flagging your purchases as not authorized.
Fortunately, this step is no longer necessary thanks to improvements in fraud detection technology and the increased security of contactless and EMV chipped cards. In fact, many credit card issuers no longer require travelers to notify them before leaving for vacation.
Notifying your American express platinum card company before you leave for vacation is the best way to avoid any surprises or fees while on vacation. If you don’t notify them, you could end up getting declined or having your card frozen by an ATM or bank. This is not a pleasant experience for either of you, so be sure to tell them of your upcoming vacation. You can also let your credit card issuer know in advance so they can send you a new card before you leave on vacation.
Earning bonus points with travel credit cards
Whether you use the rewards program to book flights or simply to reward yourself for using your card, earning bonus points with travel credit cards can be beneficial. Each major issuer has its own terminology for points and miles. Chase uses Ultimate Rewards, while American Express and Capital One use Membership Rewards points and Venture miles.
Most travel credit cards offer bonus points and miles for different categories of spending. To maximize your rewards, you should know which cards earn the most bonus points and miles.
The Hilton Honors American Express Card offers seven Hilton Honors bonus points per dollar of eligible purchases. You can also receive complimentary Silver status with this card, which gives you the opportunity to earn a fifth night free on qualifying reward stays. However, it’s important to keep in mind that you must be able to save up enough points to book four or five nights with the Hilton Honors credit card.
Avoiding awkward situations with credit cards while traveling
When abroad, it’s essential to be aware of your finances. Credit card declines are often a protective measure for the card issuer. However, if you keep track of your expenses, it’s unlikely that you’ll have to deal with them.
If you do encounter such a situation, have a second payment option handy. You may be traveling to a country where you don’t use your card issuer’s cards – but a local merchant may only accept cash. Always carry a backup debit card or a card with you, as well as cash in your wallet.
