Traveling This Summer? Here’s How to Protect Your Money

Sunshine, sandy toes, and suitcase selfies—summer travel season is here! Whether you’re jetting off to a tropical island, backpacking through Europe, or just escaping to a lakeside cabin for some quiet, one thing’s for sure: you don’t want your trip derailed by money mishaps.

Imagine standing at a gelato stand in Rome, craving that triple scoop of pistachio perfection, and your card gets declined. Not because you don’t have the funds available but because your bank thought you were being scammed. Avoid that disaster (and many others) by taking a few smart steps before and during your trip.

Before You Leave: Set the Money Foundation

1. Inform your bank (or credit card company) of your travel plans. If your account suddenly starts showing charges from Bangkok or Barcelona, your bank will likely freeze your account and send you a fraud alert. Avoid this drama by letting your bank know where and when you’ll be traveling, especially if you’re traveling outside the country. You can easily let us know by calling 405-755-1000 or by stopping by our branch.
2. Make copies of important documents. Scan your passport, credit cards (both the front and back), travel insurance, and itinerary. Send a copy of each by secure email to yourself or store them in a secure cloud service. That way, if something gets lost or stolen, you’ll have a backup readily available.
3. Stop or forward your mail. Contact the post office in person or through their website to set up a temporary mail hold or to arrange for mail forwarding (if you’ll be away for an extended period). Not only does this protect sensitive info (like credit card statements), but it also keeps your home from becoming a target.
4. Don’t rely on one payment method. Bring a mix of cash, a credit card, and a debit card. Keep them in different places (like your wallet, suitcase, or a hidden pouch) in case one goes missing.

While You Travel: Travel Smart, Spend Safer

1. Use a hotel safe for valuables. Hotel safes are great for storing extra cash, jewelry, your passport, or the debit or credit card you don’t use on a daily basis.
2. Choose ATMs located in secure, well-monitored areas. When you’re in unfamiliar areas, use ATMs located inside banks or secure, well-lit locations. Avoid using standalone ATMs in places like convenience stores or secluded areas, as they are more likely to be tampered with or targeted by criminals.
3. Use RFID-blocking wallets or sleeves. Digital pickpocketing is real. Some savvy scammers use devices that skim your card info through your pocket. Block this activity with an RFID-blocking wallet or card sleeve. They’re affordable and easy to find online.
4. Don’t flash your cash. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash in public. It attracts unwanted attention and makes you a prime target. Only carry what you need for the day and leave the rest secured in your safe.
5. Be cautious of public Wi-Fi. Free airport or hotel Wi-Fi can be tempting, but it’s not always secure. Avoid logging into your bank account or making purchases over public networks. Use a VPN (virtual private network) for safer browsing, or wait until you’re on a trusted connection.
6. Enable transaction alerts. Get instant notifications for every transaction. Most banks offer this feature via text or email. You’ll be alerted immediately if something suspicious occurs so you can respond quickly.

Bonus Tips: Think Ahead, Travel Smart

• Travel insurance can help cover expenses related to stolen cash, canceled trips, or medical emergencies. It might seem like an extra expense, but it’s worth every penny if things go south.
• Use credit cards over debit cards when possible. Credit cards offer better fraud protection, and if something goes wrong, it’s not your cash that’s instantly missing.
• Set spending limits for your cards to minimize damage if one of them gets compromised.

Safe Money = Happy Travels Vacations should be about making memories, not dealing with money or identity theft headaches. By protecting your money before you leave and staying vigilant while you’re away, you can focus on what matters – having fun on your much-needed vacation! So, pack that sunscreen, grab your passport, and get ready to relax and have a great time.