|
Inquire
about additional fees for overseas use.
If you're going on an overseas trip ask about additional fees. Contact
your credit card company to see if there is an additional fee for using
the credit card outside of the U.S. Also, be aware of exchange fees for
converting dollar denominated credit card purchases into the host
country's currency.>
In
event of loss/theft, get phone number.
In the event your credit card is lost or stolen, make sure you have the
credit card bank's 800 number. The one you probable have now won't work
overseas, but your bank should have another one that does. You should also
ask how to replace a lost/stolen card in the area you are traveling in.
Often times, th bank can issue a new one in about one to two days.
Be
ready for emergencies.
Have your account numbers in a safe place in the event of an emergency. If
you're cards are lost or stolen, you have the information needed to report
and replace them. A good idea is to place the information on a
password-protected website that can be accessed any where you have an
online connection.
Keep
tabs on line of credit and expiration date.
Make sure you know your credit limits and expiration date for each credit
card you take with you. That way you can know how much you can spend on
each trip.
Keep
copy of receipts.
Outside the US, you don't have the level of consumer protection. You
should always keep a copy of every charge slip and/or receipt. That way if
there is a dispute, you have proof.
Use
only one card
In general, it's easier to use just one card for all your transactions. It
simplifies budgeting.
Credit
Cards For Overseas Use.
If you go overseas, make sure the cards you bring are one that you will be
able to use. In different parts of the world, some credit cards are more
accepted than others.
Have
back-up card.
If any problems develop with your primary credit card, you should have a
back-up card just in case. Make sure your credit cards are from different
banks. Otherwise, you could be in for a difficult time.
Check
to see if card is accepted.
Before attempting to buy from a merchant, make sure your card is accepted.
Many establishments advertise credit card logos on the door, but don't
accept them. They're often uses as status symbols, but nothing else. You
should always carry cash just in case.
Notify
credit card company of plans.
If you're going to visit another country or area of this country, notify
the card issuer ahead of time. If not, the may interpret the unusual
activity as fraudulent and shut down you credit card.
|
