International Travel and Debit Cards – Tips for Usage

1. What are the key benefits of using an international travel and debit card?


1. Convenience: An international travel and debit card allows you to access funds from your bank account while traveling abroad. This eliminates the need to carry large amounts of cash or constantly worry about currency conversion rates.

2. Wide Acceptance: Most international travel and debit cards are accepted at millions of locations worldwide, including ATMs, shops, restaurants, and hotels.

3. Security: With an international travel and debit card, you do not have to worry about losing all your money if your wallet is stolen or lost. You can easily block the card and get a replacement, minimizing the risk of financial loss.

4. Currency Conversion: Many international travel and debit cards allow you to make transactions in multiple currencies at competitive exchange rates.

5. Access to Emergency Funds: In case of any unexpected expenses while traveling, an international debit card can serve as a backup source of funds.

6. Budget Management: International travel and debit cards allow you to track your spending in real-time through online banking or mobile apps, which can help you stick to your budget while traveling.

7. Rewards and Benefits: Some international travel and debit cards offer various rewards such as cashback, discounts on flights or hotel bookings, and complimentary lounge access at airports.

8. Travel Insurance Coverage: Many international travel and debit cards provide a certain level of travel insurance coverage for trip cancellations, baggage delays, or medical emergencies.

9. Contactless Payments: A growing number of international travel and debit cards come with contactless payment capabilities that allow for quick transactions without having to insert the card into a terminal or enter a PIN.

10. Peace of Mind: Overall, using an international travel and debit card can provide peace of mind while traveling by offering convenience, security, flexibility, and many other benefits that cash cannot provide.

2. What is the best way to use an international travel and debit card?


1. Notify your bank: Before using your international debit card, it’s important to notify your bank about your upcoming travels. This will ensure that they don’t block any transactions made in a new location, which could happen if it’s flagged as unusual activity.

2. Learn about foreign transaction fees: Many debit cards charge a fee for international transactions, which can range from 1-3% of the total purchase amount. Take note of these fees and factor them into your budget.

3. Choose a debit card with no or low foreign transaction fees: Some banks offer debit cards specifically designed for international travel, with lower or no foreign transaction fees. If possible, try to use one of these cards to save money on fees.

4. Make ATM withdrawals in local currency: When withdrawing cash from an ATM abroad, always choose to be charged in the local currency instead of your home currency. This will avoid additional conversion fees and give you a better exchange rate.

5. Be aware of daily withdrawal limits: Some banks impose daily withdrawal limits on their international debit cards, so make sure you are familiar with these limits before traveling.

6. Keep track of your transactions: It’s important to keep track of all your transactions while traveling abroad, either by checking online banking regularly or keeping receipts.

7. Use it at reputable locations: Stick to using your debit card at reputable and trusted locations such as airports, hotels, and major retailers to reduce the risk of fraud or skimming.

8. Have backup options: While debit cards are convenient, they may not be accepted everywhere or may not work due to technical issues. It’s always a good idea to have some cash or a credit card as backup just in case.

9. Use caution when using public Wi-Fi: Avoid using unsecured public Wi-Fi networks when making transactions with your international debit card as they can be vulnerable to hackers.

10. Report any issues immediately: If you suspect any fraudulent activity or encounter any issues with your international debit card, contact your bank immediately to report it and get assistance.

3. What kind of fees should I expect to pay when using an international travel and debit card?


When using an international travel and debit card, you can expect to pay the following fees:

1. Foreign transaction fee: This is a fee charged by your bank or credit card company for purchases made in a foreign currency. It usually ranges from 1-3% of your total transaction amount.

2. ATM withdrawal fee: When you use your debit card to withdraw cash from an ATM abroad, you may be charged a fee by both your bank and the ATM owner. This fee can vary depending on the country and the type of account you have.

3. Currency conversion fee: If you make a purchase in a currency that is different from the one your card is in, your bank or credit card company may charge a currency conversion fee.

4. Overdraft fees: If you overdraw from your account while using your debit card, you may be charged additional fees by your bank.

5. Annual or monthly fees: Some travel and debit cards come with annual or monthly fees for maintaining the account or accessing certain features like travel insurance or rewards programs.

6. Inactivity fees: Some banks may charge an inactivity fee if you do not use your travel and debit card for a certain period of time.

It’s important to check with your bank or credit card company about their specific fees and charges before using your international travel and debit card overseas. Some banks also offer special travel cards with lower fees specifically designed for international use.

4. How do I know if my international travel and debit card is accepted in the country I’m visiting?

There are a few steps you can take to ensure that your international travel and debit card will be accepted in the country you are visiting:

1. Check with your bank or credit union: Before you travel, contact your bank or credit union to let them know about your trip and make sure that your card will work in the country you are visiting.

2. Look for network logos: Most debit cards are linked to a specific payment network such as Visa, Mastercard, American Express, etc. Make sure the network logo on your card is widely accepted in the country you are traveling to.

3. Research local banking systems: Some countries have different banking systems and may not accept foreign debit cards. It’s a good idea to do some research on the local banking system of the country you are visiting before you go.

4. Call customer service: If you’re unsure about whether your debit card will be accepted in a certain country, contact your bank’s customer service line and ask about their international acceptance.

5. Have backup options: It’s always a good idea to have backup options when traveling internationally, such as carrying some cash or traveler’s checks in case your card doesn’t work.

6. Use ATMs from reputable banks: When withdrawing money from an ATM overseas, it’s best to use machines from well-known banks rather than standalone machines, which may charge higher fees or have security concerns.

7. Consider getting a chip-enabled card: In many countries outside of the US, EMV chip technology is widely used for transactions. Consider getting a chip-enabled debit card before traveling abroad for easier and more secure transactions.

5. What do I need to know about international exchange rates and fees when using an international travel and debit card?


When using an international travel and debit card, it is important to understand the exchange rates and fees involved in order to avoid unexpected charges and get the best value for your money.

1. Exchange Rates: The exchange rate is the rate at which one currency can be exchanged for another. When using an international debit card, your purchases will be converted from your home currency to the local currency of the country you are visiting. Exchange rates fluctuate constantly and can have a significant impact on the final cost of your purchases.

2. Foreign Transaction Fees: Most banks charge a fee for transactions made in a foreign currency, typically around 3% of the total transaction amount. This fee is charged by your bank and is in addition to any fees charged by the merchant or ATM operator.

3. ATM Fees: When using an international debit card to withdraw cash from an ATM, you may incur additional fees from both your bank and the ATM operator. These fees can range from a fixed amount per transaction to a percentage of the total withdrawal.

4. Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC): This is a service offered by some merchants where they offer to convert your purchase into your home currency at the point of sale. While this may seem convenient, it often comes with high exchange rates and fees, so it is usually best to decline this option and pay in local currency.

5. Know Your Daily Withdrawal Limits: Before traveling, check with your bank to find out what your daily ATM withdrawal limit is for international transactions. If needed, you can request an increase in advance.

6.Bank Policies: It is important to check with your bank before traveling about their policies regarding international transactions. Some banks may require you to notify them of your travel plans in advance or set up a travel alert on your account to ensure that your transactions are not flagged as fraudulent.

7.Check Your Statements: After returning from your trip, carefully review all statements associated with your international debit card to ensure that there are no unexpected fees or unauthorized transactions.

By understanding exchange rates and fees associated with international travel and debit cards, you can make informed decisions about how to use your card while traveling and avoid unnecessary charges. It is always a good idea to plan ahead and have multiple forms of payment available, such as cash or a credit card, in case your debit card is not accepted or encounters any issues.

6. What are the differences between an international travel and a debit card?


An international travel card, also known as a prepaid travel card, is a type of currency card that allows you to preload a certain amount of foreign currency onto the card before your trip. It can be used like a debit or credit card at stores, restaurants, and ATMs while traveling abroad. The balance on the card decreases as you make purchases or withdraw money.

A debit card, on the other hand, is linked directly to your bank account and allows you to spend money through electronic transactions or by using it at an ATM. It deducts the amount spent from your available balance in real-time.

The main differences between these two cards are:

1. Convenience: An international travel card allows you to avoid carrying cash while traveling and eliminates the need to constantly exchange currencies. A debit card may require you to find an ATM that accepts your specific bank’s network.

2. Foreign transaction fees: International travel cards often have lower foreign transaction fees compared to traditional debit cards, which may charge a percentage for each transaction made abroad.

3. Exchange rates: International travel cards typically offer competitive exchange rates which may be better than those offered by banks and other currency exchange services for debit cards.

4. Security: International travel cards come with built-in security features such as PIN protection and 24/7 customer support in case of theft or loss. Debit cards also have security measures in place but may not offer the same level of support as travel cards specifically designed for overseas use.

5. Budget control: Prepaid travel cards allow you to preload a set amount of money onto the card, making it easier to stick to a budget while traveling abroad. Debit cards may tempt users into overspending since there is no preset limit on how much can be spent.

6. Acceptance: While both types of cards can be used at ATMs and merchants accepting Visa or Mastercard, prepaid travel cards may not be accepted at all locations, especially in more remote areas. It may also not be accepted at places where a card is required to be physically present, such as car rentals or hotel reservations.

In summary, international travel cards are a convenient and cost-effective option for travelers who want to avoid foreign transaction fees and have better control over their budget while abroad. However, it is always advisable to carry multiple forms of payment when traveling in case of any unforeseen circumstances.

7. Are there any risks involved in using an international travel and debit card?


As with any type of financial product, there are always potential risks involved in using an international travel and debit card. Some common risks associated with these cards include:

1. Unauthorized charges: If your card is lost or stolen and used by someone else, you could be held responsible for any unauthorized charges made on the card.

2. Suspicious activity: If unusual or suspicious transactions occur on your card while you are traveling, your bank may freeze your account until they can confirm the authenticity of the transactions.

3. Exchange rate fluctuations: When using a debit card internationally, your purchases will typically be converted from the local currency to your home currency. This means you are subject to exchange rate fluctuations, which can result in higher costs for purchases made in foreign currencies.

4. ATM fees: In addition to any foreign transaction fees imposed by your bank, you may also be charged additional fees when withdrawing cash from international ATMs.

5. Limited acceptance: While most major credit and debit cards are accepted worldwide, there may still be some locations where your card is not accepted. This could leave you without a means of payment in certain situations.

6. Foreign transaction fees: Many banks charge a fee for each transaction made outside of the country, so using your international travel and debit card frequently while abroad could result in significant fees.

7. Fraudulent merchants: In some countries, it is more common for merchants to engage in fraudulent practices, such as skimming or cloning cards. Be cautious when handing over your card to unfamiliar merchants and make sure to monitor your statements for any suspicious activity.

It’s important to understand these risks before using an international travel and debit card and take appropriate precautions to protect yourself against them. This includes notifying your bank of your travel plans beforehand, regularly monitoring your account activity, and keeping track of all receipts and documents related to purchases made with the card while traveling.

8. How can I protect myself when using an international travel and debit card?


Here are some tips to protect yourself when using an international travel and debit card:

1. Notify your bank: Before you travel, it is important to let your bank or credit card issuer know about your trip. This will prevent them from suspecting fraudulent activity and potentially blocking your card.

2. Set up alerts: Many banks offer notification services where they will notify you whenever a transaction is made with your card. This can help you keep track of any unauthorized charges.

3. Use secure ATMs: When withdrawing cash, make sure to use an ATM that is located in a safe and well-lit area. Avoid using standalone ATMs, especially at night.

4. Cover the keypad: When entering your PIN at an ATM or making a purchase, cover the keypad with your hand to prevent anyone from stealing your PIN.

5. Check for skimming devices: Before inserting your card into an ATM, check for any unusual attachments or devices that may be used for skimming information off of your debit card.

6. Keep track of transactions: While traveling, regularly check your account activity online or via mobile banking to ensure all transactions are legitimate.

7. Be cautious of public Wi-Fi: Avoid using public Wi-Fi networks to access your online banking or make purchases as they are less secure and could potentially expose your personal information.

8. Use chip-and-PIN technology: If possible, use chip-and-PIN technology instead of magnetic stripe cards as they provide stronger security against fraud.

9. Keep emergency contact numbers handy: In case of any issues or if your card is lost or stolen, keep the phone number provided by your bank handy so you can report it immediately.

10. Be aware of currency conversion fees: Some banks may charge a fee for converting currencies when using international travel cards, so make sure to read the terms and conditions before using your card abroad.

9. Are there any restrictions on where I can use my international travel and debit card?


Yes, there may be restrictions on where you can use your international travel and debit card. Some merchants or establishments may not accept certain types of cards or may only accept locally issued cards. Additionally, some countries or regions may have restrictions on the use of foreign cards for certain transactions, such as cash withdrawals. It is important to check with your bank or credit card issuer for any potential limitations before using your card abroad.

10. What is the best way to get cash from my international travel and debit card?


1. Use your debit card at ATMs: This is one of the most convenient and cost-effective ways to get cash while traveling internationally. You can use your debit card to withdraw money from ATMs in the local currency, avoiding the hassle of exchanging currencies.

2. Inform your bank before traveling: It is important to inform your bank about your travel plans, including the countries you will be visiting and the dates of your trip. This will prevent any inconvenience or suspicion of fraudulent activity on your account.

3. Check for international fees: Many banks charge a foreign transaction fee when you use your debit card abroad. It is important to check with your bank about their fees and look for cards that have lower or no foreign transaction fees.

4. Choose ATMs wisely: It’s always a good idea to use ATMs that are affiliated with major banks or networks, as they tend to have better exchange rates and lower fees compared to standalone ATMs.

5. Always choose local currency: When using an ATM, make sure to choose to withdraw money in the local currency rather than in your home currency. This ensures that you get the most favorable exchange rate and avoid any additional conversion fees.

6. Keep track of exchange rates: Exchange rates fluctuate constantly, so it’s a good idea to keep track of them before and during your trip. This will help you make informed decisions when withdrawing cash.

7. Limit daily withdrawals: To minimize potential losses in case of theft or loss of your card, it’s advisable to limit daily ATM withdrawals to smaller amounts.

8. Use a backup option: Despite taking all precautions, there might still be situations where you are unable to use your debit card overseas. In such cases, having a backup option like a credit card or traveler’s checks can come in handy.

9. Keep your PIN safe: While using an ATM, make sure no one is watching you enter your PIN number and avoid sharing it with anyone.

10. Avoid using your debit card for large purchases: Using your debit card for large purchases may attract high transaction fees and put you at risk of fraudulent activity. It’s best to use a credit card for such transactions or carry enough cash with you.

11. Are there any rewards programs associated with international travel and debit cards?


Yes, some debit card providers may offer rewards programs for international travel, such as earning points or discounts on travel-related purchases made with the card. However, these rewards vary by provider and may not be available for all international transactions. It’s important to check with your specific card issuer for more information about their rewards programs and how they apply to international travel.

12. How do I find out more information about the terms of my international travel and debit card?


You can contact your bank or financial institution that issued the card. They will be able to provide you with detailed information about the terms and usage of your international travel and debit card, including any fees, exchange rates, and restrictions. You can also refer to the card’s terms and conditions or user guide for more specific details.

13. Are there any other advantages of using an international travel and debit card over traditional credit cards?

There are several additional advantages of using an international travel and debit card over traditional credit cards:

1. No credit check: Since a travel and debit card is linked to your bank account, there is no need for a credit check when applying for one. This makes it easier to get the card without the strict requirements of a traditional credit card.

2. Avoid debt: Unlike credit cards, which allow you to spend money that you do not have, a travel and debit card only allows you to spend the money you have in your bank account. This helps you stay within your budget and avoid accumulating debt.

3. Lower or no fees: Travel and debit cards often have lower or no transaction fees compared to traditional credit cards. Many banks also offer their customers free ATM withdrawals with their travel and debit cards.

4. Better exchange rates: With a travel and debit card, you can usually get better exchange rates when making purchases abroad compared to traditional credit cards. This can save you money on foreign transactions.

5. Accepted at more places: While credit cards may be accepted in most places, there are still some locations where they may not be accepted as a form of payment. In these cases, having a travel and debit card can be convenient as they are widely accepted at most ATMs and merchants worldwide.

6. Easy cash withdrawals: Some international travel and debit cards come with the added feature of being able to withdraw cash from ATMs at low or no fees, making it easier for travelers to access local currency wherever they go.

7. Fraud protection: Most international travel and debit cards come with fraud protection policies similar to those offered by traditional credit cards, giving you peace of mind while traveling.

8. Budgeting tool: Many international travel and debit cards offer spending tracking tools that allow you to keep track of your expenses while traveling. This can help you stick to your budget and avoid overspending.

9. No interest charges: Since you are using your own money with a travel and debit card, there are no interest charges or late payment fees like there would be with a traditional credit card.

10. Easier to get replacements: If your international travel and debit card gets lost or stolen while traveling, it is often easier to get a replacement card compared to a traditional credit card, as the latter requires more paperwork and time to replace.

14. How do I access additional funds on my international travel and debit card while abroad?

There are a few options for accessing additional funds on your international travel and debit card while abroad:

1. Use an ATM: If you have an international travel and debit card with a Visa or Mastercard logo, you can withdraw cash from most ATMs worldwide. Just make sure to notify your bank ahead of time so they are aware of your travels.

2. Request a cash advance: Some banks may allow you to request a cash advance at certain locations or banks with your debit card and PIN. However, keep in mind that this option may come with high fees and interest rates.

3. Transfer money online: If you have access to internet banking, you can transfer funds from another account to your international travel and debit card while abroad. Just be aware of any fees associated with this option.

4. Use traveler’s checks: If you have traveler’s checks, they can be exchanged for cash at many banks or currency exchange offices around the world.

5. Contact your bank for assistance: If you are in need of a large amount of funds, you can contact your bank for assistance in arranging a wire transfer or increasing your withdrawal limit temporarily.

It’s always recommended to plan ahead and have multiple options available for accessing funds abroad in case one method is not available or does not work.

15. What should I do if my international travel and debit card is lost or stolen while traveling abroad?

If your international travel and debit card is lost or stolen while traveling abroad, you should take the following steps:

1. Contact your bank: The first step is to contact your bank immediately and inform them about the lost or stolen card. This will help prevent any fraudulent activity on your account.

2. Cancel the card: Ask your bank to cancel the lost or stolen card immediately. They will deactivate the card and issue a new one for you.

3. Request an emergency replacement: If you need a replacement card urgently, ask your bank if they can provide an emergency replacement at a local branch or have it delivered to your location.

4. File a police report: In some countries, it is necessary to file a police report for any lost or stolen items, including credit and debit cards. This can help protect you against any unauthorized charges on your account.

5. Keep track of your accounts: While waiting for a replacement card, monitor your accounts closely for any unusual activity. Report any suspicious charges to your bank immediately.

6. Make alternate arrangements: If you are unable to use your debit card, consider using other forms of payment such as cash or traveler’s checks until you receive a replacement.

7. Update automatic payments: If you have any automatic payments set up with your lost or stolen card, make sure to update them with the new card information once it arrives.

8. Keep copies of important documents: It is always a good idea to keep copies of important documents, including your debit card number and bank contact information, in case of emergencies like this one.

9. Learn from the experience: Losing a debit card while traveling can be frustrating but try to learn from the experience and take extra precautions in the future, such as keeping important documents locked up and having multiple forms of payment available.

16. What should I be aware of when using foreign ATMs with my international travel and debit card?

Before using foreign ATMs with your international travel and debit card, you should be aware of the following:

1. Fees: Some banks may charge a foreign transaction fee for using your card at an overseas ATM. This fee is typically a percentage (usually around 3%) of the transaction amount.

2. ATM operator fees: The ATM you use may also charge its own fees for transactions made with foreign cards. These fees can vary and may be higher than what you are used to paying at home.

3. Exchange rates: When using your card to withdraw cash in a different currency, the exchange rate used will be determined by your bank or the ATM operator. It is important to check the exchange rate being offered to ensure you are getting a fair deal.

4. Daily withdrawal limits: Your bank may have set daily withdrawal limits on your debit card, so make sure to check these before traveling abroad.

5. Security concerns: Always be vigilant when using ATMs abroad and keep an eye out for any suspicious devices or individuals around the machine. Cover your PIN when entering it and never share it with anyone.

6. Contact your bank: Before traveling, it is recommended that you inform your bank of your travel plans and where you will be using your card. This will help prevent any potential fraud alerts or blocks on your account.

7. Have backup options: It is always wise to have alternative forms of payment such as cash or another debit/credit card in case of any issues with one card while traveling.

8. Currency conversions: Some ATMs may offer the option to withdraw funds in the local currency or in your home currency (known as Dynamic Currency Conversion). It is usually best to choose the local currency option as this will likely result in a better exchange rate than what is offered by DCC.

17. Should I notify my bank before traveling abroad with my international travel and debit card?


Yes, it is recommended that you notify your bank before traveling abroad with your international travel and debit card. This will ensure that your bank is aware of your travel plans and can monitor for any suspicious activity on your account. It may also prevent your card from being blocked or declined due to a potential fraud alert. You can usually do this by calling the customer service number on the back of your card or through online banking.

18. Are there any tips for ensuring safe use of my international travel and debit card while traveling abroad?

– Notify your bank or credit card company about your international travels to avoid any potential fraud alerts or holds on your account.
– Keep a record of all the cards you are bringing and their corresponding contact information for easy reporting in case they get lost or stolen.
– Use ATMs in well-lit and public areas, and always cover your hand when entering your PIN.
– Keep your cards in a safe place, such as a money belt or hidden pocket, to avoid pickpocketing.
– Consider purchasing a travel insurance policy that includes coverage for lost or stolen cards.
– Regularly check your account balances and transaction history to ensure no unauthorized charges have been made.
– When making purchases with your card, keep an eye on the terminal to ensure it is not being double swiped or used for unauthorized transactions.

19. Are there any taxes or additional fees associated with using an international travel and debit card?


It depends on the specific card and the country you are traveling to. Some cards may have a foreign transaction fee, which is a percentage of each transaction made in a foreign currency. Additionally, some countries may charge taxes or fees for using debit cards at certain merchants or for cash withdrawals. It is best to check with your bank or credit card issuer for more information.

20. How can I ensure that all transactions made with my international travel and debit card are secure?


1. Keep your card secured: Make sure to keep your international travel and debit card in a safe and secure place at all times. This could be a wallet or money belt that you can keep close to your body.

2. Use trusted ATMs: When withdrawing money from an ATM, always use machines that are located in secure and well-lit areas. Avoid using ATMs that look tampered with or have skimming devices attached.

3. Enable transaction alerts: Some banks offer the option to receive alerts for every transaction made with your card. This will help you monitor any suspicious activity on your card and take immediate action if needed.

4. Set spending limits: Many banks allow you to set daily or monthly spending limits on your international travel and debit card. This can prevent fraudsters from making large unauthorized transactions.

5. Notify your bank before traveling: Before embarking on your trip, make sure to inform your bank about your travel plans so they are aware of any potential international transactions on your card.

6. Keep track of transactions: Regularly check your bank statements or monitor transactions through online banking to ensure that all charges are legitimate.

7. Check for fraudulent charges: If you notice any unfamiliar charges, contact your bank immediately to report them and request a block on future transactions.

8. Use chip-enabled cards: Chip-enabled cards provide an extra layer of security compared to magnetic stripe cards, as the data is more difficult for fraudsters to copy.

9. Avoid using public computers or Wi-Fi networks: When making online purchases or accessing bank accounts, avoid using public computers or Wi-Fi networks which could potentially compromise the security of your personal information.

10. Be cautious when providing card information over the phone: Only provide your card details over the phone if you are certain it is a trusted source, such as a hotel or airline company.

11. Sign up for fraud protection services: Some banks offer fraud protection services for an additional fee. These services can help monitor your card for suspicious activities and provide assistance in case of fraud.

12. Use a travel credit card instead: Consider using a travel credit card for purchases during your trip instead of your debit card. Credit cards often offer better fraud protection and it will help prevent any unauthorized transactions draining your bank account.

13. Keep emergency contact information on hand: In case your card is lost or stolen, make sure to have the contact information for your bank’s customer service readily available.

14. Be wary of phishing scams: Be cautious when clicking on links or responding to emails requesting personal or financial information. Always verify the source before providing any sensitive information.

15. Use two-factor authentication: Some banks offer the option of two-factor authentication where you need to enter a code sent to your phone in addition to your password, making it harder for fraudsters to access your account.

16. Regularly update passwords and PINs: Change your online banking passwords and PINs regularly, and avoid using easily guessable combinations like birthdays or addresses.

17. Be careful with receipts: After making a purchase, make sure to securely dispose of receipts that contain sensitive information such as the full card number or expiry date.

18. Keep copies of important documents: Make copies of important documents such as passport and ID cards in case they are lost or stolen during your travels.

19. Use mobile payment options: Consider using mobile payment options such as Apple Pay or Google Pay, which use tokenization technology to secure your card details and require biometric verification before completing a transaction.

20.Your bank’s security features: Finally, familiarize yourself with the security features offered by your bank for international transactions, such as 3D Secure verification or fraud detection tools, and make sure these are enabled before you travel.