When planning your travels, ensuring financial security is crucial for a stress-free experience. Here are some tips to help you manage your finances before and during your trip.

Plan Ahead

Start by estimating the costs of your trip. Research and budget your travel expenses, including transportation, lodging, food, entertainment, and emergency funds. It may help to draft a spending plan that covers all anticipated expenses. Begin saving early by setting up automated transfers to a dedicated travel savings account with high interest and limited accessibility to avoid impulsive spending. As you plan your trip, keep an eye out for ways to save money. Use loyalty points, book hotels with free breakfast and amenities, and take advantage of memberships offering travel discounts.

Prepare Before You Go

Before embarking on your vacation, be sure to notify your bank or credit union about your travel plans. This ensures your card won’t be declined due to unusual foreign transactions. You should also download your mobile banking app to monitor transactions and set up account alerts via text or push notifications, in case you lose cell service. Always ensure you have a way to contact your bank in case of an emergency.

Download Card Suite Lite from the App Store or Google Play to easily manage your cards, no matter where you are! Easily register your Family First Visa cards to:

• Freeze your cards instantly
• Create real-time transaction alerts
• Set monthly or transaction spend limits
• Control where and how your cards can be used

In preparation for managing your budget, understanding currency exchange rates is also essential. By familiarizing yourself with these rates, you can make informed decisions about how to handle your money while traveling. For example, using credit cards can often provide better exchange rates than currency exchanges and offers valuable fraud protection.

While Traveling

Once you’re on the go, it’s crucial to maintain practices that keep your finances secure. Be cautious of malicious technology by avoiding ATMs or point-of-sale devices that appear tampered with, as this can help prevent skimming. To further protect your cards, consider getting an RFID-blocking wallet to guard against unauthorized scans. Additionally, stay informed about potential scams specific to your destination to remain vigilant and ensure a safe trip.

By following these tips, you can enjoy your travels with greater financial security and peace of mind. Happy travels!