How to prepare yourself for travel money emergencies | finder.com
finder.com

Finder is committed to editorial independence. While we receive compensation when you click links to partners, they do not influence our content.

How to prepare for travel money emergencies

Create a travel emergency kit to help keep your finances in order abroad.

Avatar
Peter Carleton
Updated
Fact checked

Getting stuck overseas without a penny to your name is the last thing you want on a vacation. Thankfully, there are a few simple things you can do to prepare for a worst-case money scenario abroad.

How can I prepare myself for a travel money emergency?

Making sure you’ve prepared yourself financially could save you a lot of grief in the long run. Here are a few simple tips you should consider before and during your trip to ensure a stress-free vacation:

  1. Notify your provider that you’re traveling
    If you’re planning on using your regular debit or credit card overseas, let your card lender know where you’ll be traveling. This will save you the hassle of having a transaction declined or blocked as a result of a security precaution. This can also help your bank identify whether a new transaction is actually fraudulent in the event that your credit card is stolen.
  2. Organize more than one travel money option
    The saying “never put all your eggs in one basket” applies here. — take a few spending options. Travel-friendly credit cards can be used for large purchases or reservations for hotels and car rentals. A debit or prepaid travel card can come in handy for ATM withdrawals and smaller purchases. You could also prepare ahead of time by sending money overseas before you go. Last, but certainly not least, bring cash — you never know where and when your card will be accepted.
  3. Create a travel emergency kit
    You’ll want to have a safe location to store several important emergency items, such as your emergency documentation as well as your emergency cash. Don’t carry this kit with you during your day to day travels — you’ll want to keep it separate, such as in a safe location in your hotel or luggage you aren’t carrying with you.
  4. Have your provider’s contact numbers on hand
    Doing your research on knowing who to call, what the process is and what options are available — whether it be an emergency cash transfer or a replacement card — will save you time and a headache. Before you leave, jot down your provider’s contact details in both your phone and luggage. All of this information should be available via your cards Terms and Conditions or you can contact the customer service team directly.
  5. If you notice something’s wrong, report it immediately
    If you notice suspicious transactions on your account or are unable to access your funds, contact your provider immediately. Resolving the issue could take some time, so the sooner you report it, the better. Some lenders may have a policy about the cardholder taking reasonable steps to protect the account and report irregular behavior, if you fail to do so, you may find yourself unable to get the assistance you need.
  6. Scout out the nearest consulate
    If you’re experiencing a travel money emergency and don’t have the emergency resources of a travel kit, call or visit the local US consulate. In the worst-case scenario, the consulate can help you contact a friend or family member and facilitate a funds transfer to a new account. You can read more information on the US Bureau of Consular Affairs website.

Compare travel money cards

Data updated regularly
Name Product Foreign transaction fee Welcome offer Rewards Filter values
Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
None
80,000 points after spending $4,000 in the first 3 months, a value of up to $1,000 through Chase Ultimate Rewards. Plus up to $ statement credit towards groceries
5x points on Lyft, 2x points on up to $1,000 on groceries until April 30, 2021, 2x points on travel and dining and 1x points on all other purchases
Earn a signup bonus worth $1,000 plus up to $ statement credit towards groceries with this popular travel card.
Apply now
View details
American Express® Gold Card
American Express® Gold Card
None
60,000 points after spending $4,000 in the first 6 months
4x at restaurants including delivery and Uber Eats; 4x at US supermarkets on up to $25,000 annually (then 1x points), 3x points on directly-booked flights and 1x points on all other purchases
Earn up to 4x points on select purchases, a bevy of travel perks, and a welcome offer worth up to $600 with this upper-mid tier travel card. Terms apply, see rates & fees
Apply now
View details
The Platinum Card® from American Express
The Platinum Card® from American Express
None
75,000 points after spending $5,000 in your first 6 months, plus 10x points at US gas stations and US supermarkets on up to $15,000 in combined purchases in the same timeframe
10x points at US gas stations and US supermarkets on up to $15,000 combined in the first 6 months, 5x points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel, 5x points on directly-booked flights on up to $500,000 annually, then 1x points after that and on other purchases
One of the most valuable premium travel cards, featuring two welcome offers worth up to $4,500, multiple travel credits and unrivaled lounge access. Terms apply, see rates & fees
Apply now
View details
loading

Compare up to 4 providers

Bottom line

While it’s a drag to prepare yourself for an unexpected emergency, it’s a surefire way to reduce stress and minimize further issues. Your travel strategies will depend on your individual circumstances, so consider what will be best for you, and be sure to learn about all your travel money options before going abroad.

Back to top

More guides on Finder

Ask an Expert

You are about to post a question on finder.com:

  • Do not enter personal information (eg. surname, phone number, bank details) as your question will be made public
  • finder.com is a financial comparison and information service, not a bank or product provider
  • We cannot provide you with personal advice or recommendations
  • Your answer might already be waiting – check previous questions below to see if yours has already been asked

Finder.com provides guides and information on a range of products and services. Because our content is not financial advice, we suggest talking with a professional before you make any decision.

By submitting your comment or question, you agree to our Privacy and Cookies Policy and finder.com Terms of Use.

Questions and responses on finder.com are not provided, paid for or otherwise endorsed by any bank or brand. These banks and brands are not responsible for ensuring that comments are answered or accurate.
Go to site