How to Keep Your Money Safe When Traveling

Traveling this summer? Make sure the focus stays on fun by being in the know on financial safety and security before you go. Our experts are here to help with a few savvy tips that can keep you (and your money) in relaxing vacay mode while you’re away from home.

Planning to-dos: your pre-flight checklist

A little pre-planning can mean the difference between travel turbulence and clear skies for miles. “I know how easy it is to get distracted by transportation schedules, luggage, and my occasionally wandering child,” says Jill Garvey, wealth strategist at Huntington. “It’s important to plan ahead and stay focused on the security of your cash and credit cards.”

But don't wait until you're at the airport. Follow our handy checklist to make sure everything is shipshape before you take off.

• ✔ Tell your bank and credit card companies about your trip so your cards aren’t locked for potential fraud.
• ✔ Set up alerts on your accounts so you'll know if anything strange or suspicious happens.
• ✔ Pay ahead of time for hotels and tours, which can mean less time fumbling with your wallet in public.
• ✔ Find out if your credit cards include travel insurance that could help with canceled flights or lost bags.
• ✔ Take a few minutes to look up common scams that target tourists, like pickpockets or ATM skimmers.

It pays to spend smart

When traveling, paying by credit card is usually your best bet, since many issuers have some level of built-in fraud protection.

Also, consider going fully digital. “Digital wallets offer enhanced security features through encryption,” explains Amber Buening, cybersecurity outreach director at Huntington. “They can eliminate the need to carry physical cards or cash, reducing the risk of loss or theft.”

Despite what you might have heard about special RFID-blocking wallets, experts say they're probably not necessary. Modern cards already have decent security, and that type of theft isn't nearly as common as people think. Instead of buying special gear, just keep an eye on your accounts and be careful where you use your cards.

“You may want to divide your money and credit cards into what you need for the day, which can be accessible in a purse or bag, and the remaining that can be safely stored away,” advises Garvey. Even splitting up your money between different spots (for example, some in the hotel safe, some in your money belt, a bit in your wallet) can save you from losing everything at once.

Stay alert, especially in crowds

Travelers carrying maps, phones, and luggage could make easy targets for pickpockets, who operate all over the world.

Need cash? Use banks whenever possible to avoid skimmers, devices that thieves place on unattended ATMs to steal your card information. Some skimmers can even include tiny cameras. Look for any unusual features like loose card readers, sticky keypads, or bulky attachments before inserting your card, and cover your PIN entry with your other hand to prevent anyone from seeing your code.

You might also think about using a money belt or hidden pouch for your important items. It’s more secure than a back pocket or open purse.

In restaurants and busy areas, pay attention. Never leave bags alone, even for a few seconds, and keep valuables where you can see them. A moment of distraction is a thief’s cue to make a move.

Act fast if the worst happens

Sometimes, even when you're careful, things go wrong. If your wallet disappears or you see strange charges on your online statements, don't panic—but do act quickly.

First things first: contact your bank right away to freeze your accounts and cancel cards. “Stay calm and take immediate action,” advises Buening. Call the number on the back of your card, and review fraudulent activity information specific to Huntington customers.

After contacting your bank and the police, Buening advises a full history check. “Review recent charges for any unfamiliar transactions,” she continues. “Additionally, notify your local DMV if your ID was stolen. Freezing your credit with agencies like Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion can prevent new accounts from being opened in your name.”

But most of all, don’t be so preoccupied with security that you miss the point of your trip. Just take a few simple precautions so you can focus on what really matters—enjoying your time away and creating summer memories you'll treasure for years.