A Summer vacation is the perfect way to explore new places and make memories with the people you love most. Before you depart though, there are a few things you should think about so that you can fully relax and unwind while away. Below are four tips to help you stay safe while traveling:
Credit Cards Are Your Best Bet
Credit cards are a great way to stay financially safe while traveling. Debit cards can leave you responsible for losses in the case of fraudulent charges, while credit cards make it easier to dispute charges and billing issues. They also can save you some time when it comes to international travel and different currencies.
They not only provide fraud protection; some credit cards also offer travel rewards!
Stash Some Cash
Credit cards may be your best bet, but it’s always a good idea to have some cash stashed in case of emergency. If your cards are lost or stolen it will definitely come in handy. Also, depending on where you’re traveling it’s a good idea to have cash for smaller restaurants, retailors or transactions with street vendors.
Notify Your Bank
Before you go, let us know! As a security feature to protect your account, transactions from different locations may be blocked. To eliminate this from happening to you while you are away, be sure to call Penn East FCU at (570) 342-2720 to let us know when and where you will be traveling.
You can also set up alerts and text messages so you always know what’s going on with your account.
Beware of Scams
Unfortunately, tourists are an easy target for scammers. It’s important to be on the lookout for common scams and keep your belongings safe.
Credit card skimming is a popular scam that can be tricky to spot, its commonly used at ATMs and gas stations. Corrupt machines aren’t the only worry, people are too. Be on alert for pickpockets and strange requests from vendors or tour guides.
To protect yourself, make sure to be aware of your surroundings, keep your belongings close, shield your passwords and pins from prying eyes, and use your best judgement.
About Penn East Federal Credit Union
“Have a positive impact on our members, our community, and each other.” That is the common thread that goes across all of Penn East Federal Credit Union’s endeavors. With over eighty-five years in business and 24,000 members, the community-oriented credit union is a vital part of Northeastern Pennsylvania. Penn East FCU serves Luzerne, Lackawanna, Wayne and Wyoming counties with five branches and a 24/7 digital banking service through their website www.penneastfcu.org and their Penn East Mobile Banking App. Penn East FCU provides trusted financial solutions, integrity, and reliability to its members and community.
