Traveling and Credit Cards By Elizabeth Williams At Isnare.com Ezine Articles

Using credit cards when you travel is a time-honored tradition for many Americans! After all, when you're on vacation you don't want to be counting every last dime and worrying about every last expense, do you? The problem with using credit cards is people tend to spend more than they can afford without even realizing it – thanks to the convenience and ease of swiping your credit card. Here are a few tips for traveling and credit cards that can help you enjoy your trip and save you from bills you can't afford to pay once the vacation is over!

Consider not bringing credit cards

I realize this is a foreign concept for many, but you really could enjoy a vacation without relying on credit cards. It requires properly preparing for the trip and setting money aside before you go. Estimate how much money you need for meals and expenses for each day of your trip, factor in additional spending money and plan your vacation once you've saved enough money to give yourself the freedom to enjoy it without credit cards.

Consider travelers cheques

If you're traveling out of the country, you might consider using Travelers Cheques to help protect you if your wallet or purse is stolen. Travelers Cheques can be replaced just like you can get a credit card replaced if stolen or lost – where as cash is gone forever if you lose it or it gets stolen.

Use rewards credit cards

If the idea of skipping credit cards when traveling is too much to take, at least select a travel rewards credit card. There are multiple benefits to using travel rewards cards, including free or discounted flights, discount hotel stays and car rentals, travel protection insurance, and car rental insurance. Exact benefits and card features will vary from card to card, so get out your terms of agreement and study before you take off on your next trip.

Protect your credit cards during your travel

If you appear to be a tourist, you become a potential target for criminals. Keep your credit cards safe and away from prying eyes. There are belts with pockets that can be worn and concealed under your clothing to store cash and credit cards out of sight. Avoid keeping credit cards or cash in your back pocket, as it is the easiest place for a pickpocket to grab from. For females, instead of purses you wear on your shoulder, get one you wear across your shoulder diagonally, and that keeps your purse in front of you at all times.

When paying with credit card on the phone, conceal your mouth with your hand and speak as quietly as possible.

When paying at a retail location or restaurant, don't let the credit card out of sight. Many reports of theft happen when a clerk takes a credit card to another area of the store or restaurant to process it – and while out of sight, takes down the card details to use the card for his or her own purchases later! Use cash in these situations whenever possible.

If you do see an unauthorized transaction on your card statement, be sure to dispute it immediately with your credit card company to avoid liabilities.

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