Guest Author - Yvonne Russell

Credit Card Tip 1-Double Your Chances
Take 2 credit cards from different credit card providers. If traveling with a spouse or partner, take 2 sets of credit cards in separate names, again, from different credit card providers.

Why? Well, if one credit card malfunctions, you still have the other. Also, if one credit card is lost, the associated credit card will be out of action. If you only have one set tied to the same account, you will have no credit cards until the original is replaced.

Credit Card Tip 2.-Photocopying Credit Card Cautions
Photocopying credit cards is fraught with danger. Be wary about photocopying them and putting them in your luggage. Why? If a thief finds the credit cards, you could be in big trouble. If a thief hits the jackpot, and also finds the photocopies of your passport, airline tickets along with your credit cards, you are in very very BIG trouble.

Instead, leave the photocopies (or details) with a friend or family member. If you decide to photocopy, black out as many credit card details as you can. Leave only the number of the credit card (and the expiry date, if you don’t think you’ll remember it), to minimise fraud.

Credit Card Tip 3.-Credit Card Pin Numbers
Check on the number of digits/characters required for ATM pins in destination countries. Some require 4 and some require 6 digits. Not all will accept alphanumeric combinations. You may need to change your pin before you go. With 2 sets of credit cards, consider having one with a 4 digit pin and one with a 6 digit pin. This way you can hedge your bets, especially if traveling to a number of countries.

Credit Card Tip 4.-Minimising Fees
If using your personal credit card, decide whether to pay for items in cash or with the credit card. Foreign currency credit card conversion fees can quickly mount up. Taking the maximum out each time saves fees, but you also need to carry the money around. Cash advances will incur a sometimes hefty additional fee.

Credit Card Tip 5.-Finding an ATM
Do not assume you will readily find an ATM wherever you are. Plan ahead if you know you will need money, to leave yourself time. Many smaller towns in Europe and other countries do not have ATM’s.

Credit Card Tip 6.-Foreign ATM’s
Do not assume that all ATM’s will accept foreign credit cards. Europe, USA, Australia and New Zealand should pose no problem. I had major problems with credit cards in some very large Chinese cities recently. Check with your bank before you go. You need to know which specific bank and branch accepts foreign credit cards. Carry a phrase book in case you have trouble.

Credit Card Tip 7.-Play It Safe
Be very aware of people around you and of your money belt or bag. Crowded trains and streets are a haven for pickpockets. They can quickly spot a non local. That is their livelihood. Credit cards are a popular target. Keep your credit card, and more importantly, yourself - safe.

Your comments on this article or topic, & suggestions for the Business Travel Dept. are welcome.