Financial Education

Outward Bound?

Woman standing in London street. A double-decker bus and Big Ben can be seen in the background.

What to do Before You Travel Overseas

So, you’re heading out of the country… how exciting! Got your passport? Bags all packed? Did you talk to your bank? That should be a regular part of the process, too. Making a few smart moves with your bank before your journey can save you a lot of hassle down the road. Let’s go over them together. 

1. Give them a heads up. It’s always a good idea to let your bank know when you’re going to be traveling, regardless if you’re taking a weekend in the next town over or a month-long sabbatical around the world. This will make sure that your bank will take extra attention in monitoring your account activity. If you’re in Paris, it’s obvious that charges at a liquor store in New Jersey made at the same time weren’t made by you, so the bank can take necessary actions to get your money back.

For Primis customers: if you opened your checking account online, your debit cards and online banking cannot be used overseas. If you need to check your account details, try using a VPN with an American server selected to access online banking. Click here to see how.

2. Let them know how to reach you. It’s always a good idea to make sure your contact information is updated, and especially before you leave on your trip. That way, your bank won’t have to run through an obstacle course to reach you if fraud has been suspected on your account. 

3. Plan ahead for cash. Many cards have international fees that can add up over time. A lot of experts suggest using cash where you can. If you’re traveling overseas, it’s best to be aware of the current exchange rates of the U.S. dollar to other foreign currencies. The Federal Reserve Board updates their website daily with the exchange rates for all currencies around the world. 

4. Have a fallback option. Say (and we hope this never happens) that everything hits the fan at once. Your card gets compromised, you’re stuck overseas and your phone is not working. It’s best to remember your bank’s emergency contact phone number so that you can make a call to alert them whenever you need it.  

For Primis customers: good news for you, we only have one number you need to memorize. For any emergency, call 1-833-477-4647. 

Traveling abroad is a once in a lifetime experience for most, and managing your finances effectively ensures that you can focus on making memories rather than worrying about your money. By following these steps and taking the time to plan ahead, you’ll be better equipped to navigate financial transactions and unexpected situations, making your international journey smooth and enjoyable. Remember, a little preparation can go a long way in ensuring your peace of mind while on your voyage. 

The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All loans are subject to loan guidelines and approval.