Creditcard Stolen

Your credit card can be lost or stolen anywhere, but this is a common occurrence when traveling for a number of reasons – you are out of your element, you are using your card more often, tourists are targets, etc. So what can you do to protect your card while you travel? Here are some tips:

• Tip #1: Keep the card in an inner pocket.

Your wallet can easily be lifted from your back pocket and a card can be swiped it its in an outer zipped pocket of your purse. Someone who wants to steal your card will watch you for a few minutes (or even longer) to see your habits, and before you know it, your card is gone! Keep your card (and your entire wallet it possible) somewhere that is impossible to reach unless you go through multiple layers, like an inner pocket of your purse or an inside jacket pocket.

• Tip #2: Don’t leave your card out in the open in your hotel room.

Most hotels are extremely safe and only hire the best and most trustworthy housekeepers. However, you shouldn’t take chances. If you want to leave your credit card in your room as you enjoy your vacation, keep it locked in the room safe or at least put it somewhere deep within your luggage. Don’t make it easy for someone to steal it.

• Tip #3: Avoid allowing the card to leave your site.

This is an especially important tip when eating at a restaurant as you travel – pay with cash in this situation so the waiter doesn’t have to take your card to a cash register you can’t see. While your card is out of your site, it can be quickly replaced with a dummy card that you don’t even notice is different or swiped through a machine that copies the information.

• Tip #4: Leave your cards at home.

You might typically carry a number of cards with you, especially if you have cards associated with places where you like to shop. While on vacation, that’s unnecessary. Carrying just one card not only cuts down on the headaches if your wallet is stolen, but it also deters theft in the first place. You’ll notice right away if your only card is stolen, which makes it less useful to the thief. If you have ten cards, how long will it take for you to notice one of them is gone? Remember, travel insurance can be a blessing if you credit card is stolen while you’re on vacation. While most cards don’t hold you liable for fraudulent purchases, it takes time to resolve theft issues. With travel insurance, you’ll be sure to have enough money to finish your vacation, even if your card is stolen and your travel fund wiped out.

Allison works with TravelInsurance.org, where you can go to learn more about when and how to purchase travel insurance.

MGB