When you travel, the way you use your bank account looks different. Purchases happen in unfamiliar places. Cards are used more frequently. Alerts may go unnoticed while schedules shift. While these changes are part of the summer routine, they’re also why fraud attempts tend to increase during travel season.

Most account issues tied to travel don’t stem from major security failures. They come from small gaps: unfamiliar transactions that go unchecked, card activity that looks unusual to monitoring systems, or a missed alert while moving from place to place. Paying attention to those details before and during a trip can help keep accounts accessible and secure.

The following guidance focuses on practical steps you can take before leaving home, while you’re away, and after you return to help protect your checking and savings accounts throughout the summer.

Why Travel Changes Account Risk

Fraud prevention systems work by identifying activity that falls outside normal patterns. But when travel begins, your banking activity changes significantly: new locations, higher transaction volume, different types of merchants. From a monitoring perspective, that activity can appear inconsistent even when it’s legitimate.

At the same time, travelers often rely more heavily on mobile devices and shared networks, review transactions less frequently, or store cards in unfamiliar places. These conditions create opportunities for unauthorized activity that may go unnoticed longer than usual.

Understanding how these travel factors can affect your account behavior makes it easier to prepare for it.

Steps to Take Before You Leave

Notify the Bank of Your Travel Plans

As you start to pack your bags, take a moment to let us know where you’ll be traveling and when. Travel notifications give us guidelines to distinguish expected activity from suspicious use, which helps reduce card disruptions, particularly for debit card transactions.

First Bank has travel notifications available through online or mobile banking; set them ahead of your departure. Be sure the dates and destinations are accurate, especially if plans change. If you’re having difficulty getting online notifications set up, this can always be set up with a call, too.

Confirm Your Contact Information

If a transaction needs verification, your bank must be able to reach you quickly. Before leaving, check that:

  • Your mobile number is current
  • Your preferred contact method is correctly set
  • You can receive messages while traveling
Outdated contact details can delay fraud verification and temporarily block card access.

Review the Cards You’ll Bring

Carrying fewer cards reduces exposure if a wallet or bag is lost. Choose intentionally:

  • One primary debit or credit card
  • One backup card stored separately
  • A small amount of cash for situations where cards aren’t accepted

Avoid keeping all cards together. Separating them helps ensure continued access if one item goes missing.

Read More: Fraud Prevention

Using Cards Safely While Traveling

Choose Credit Cards for Larger Purchases

Credit cards generally offer stronger consumer protections and aren’t directly connected to checking account funds. While away, consider using a credit card for security when paying for hotels, rental cars, and other major purchases.

Debit cards are still useful for everyday transactions, but limiting their use while traveling can help reduce risk.

Pay Attention at ATMs and Terminals

Most card transactions are problem‑free, but unfamiliar locations deserve a second glance.

Travel best practices include:

  • Using ATMs inside bank branches or well‑lit areas
  • Avoiding machines that look loose, damaged, or altered
  • Covering the keypad when entering your PIN
  • Storing receipts securely or dispose of them properly

At point‑of‑sale counters, be mindful of where your card goes and how long it’s out of sight.

Managing Digital Access on the Road

Be Selective with Internet Connections

Public Wi‑Fi networks are common in airports, hotels, and restaurants, but they’re not ideal for financial activity.

When accessing accounts:

  • Use cellular data when possible
  • Avoid logging in on shared or unsecured networks
  • Never save banking passwords on public devices

Keeping financial access limited to secure connections helps protect account credentials.

Set Up Transaction Alerts

Account alerts provide immediate visibility into activity. Before traveling, review alert settings for:

  • Card transactions
  • Large transfers or withdrawals
  • Login attempts

Prompt alerts allow you to spot unfamiliar activity quickly, even when you’re away from home.

Monitor Accounts During Your Trip

Regular check‑ins reduce the chance that unauthorized activity goes unnoticed. Even brief daily reviews can help you catch issues early.

While traveling, make a habit of:

  • Reviewing recent transactions
  • Confirming purchases you recognize
  • Reporting unfamiliar charges immediately

Early reporting makes resolution faster and limits potential losses.

What to Do If You Notice an Issue

If a card stops working or you see activity you don’t recognize:

  • Contact the bank using the phone number on your card or official website
  • Avoid responding to unsolicited texts or emails requesting information
  • Write down details such as time, location, and transaction amounts

Direct contact helps resolve issues efficiently and prevents additional exposure.

Additional Considerations for International Travel

International travel adds another layer of complexity: currency differences, varying acceptance policies, and different security standards.

Before leaving the country:

  • Confirm your cards can be used internationally
  • Review foreign transaction fees
  • Save international customer service numbers

While abroad:

  • Use secure ATMs and payment terminals
  • Keep receipts for comparison
  • Avoid unfamiliar exchange services

Preparing for international payment differences helps avoid access issues mid‑trip.

After You Return Home:

When travel ends, review account activity more thoroughly.

  • Look for delayed charges from hotels or rentals
  • Remove travel notifications if needed
  • Monitor accounts for several days after returning

Some transactions post after travel ends. A final review helps ensure all activity matches your records.

Secure Banking on the road

Summer travel doesn’t require constant monitoring, but it does benefit from preparation and consistent habits. Paying attention to how your account use changes while traveling and setting limits around where and how transactions occur can help keep your accounts functioning smoothly.

First Bank provides account monitoring tools, alerts, and support designed to help customers identify issues quickly. If questions come up before a trip or something doesn’t look right while you’re away, contacting us promptly helps protect access to your accounts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to notify the bank every time I travel?

Travel notifications are strongly recommended, particularly for debit cards and international travel, to reduce transaction interruptions.

Is using a debit card risky while traveling?

Debit cards can be used safely, but credit cards generally offer stronger protections and are often better suited for higher‑value travel purchases.

What should I do if my card is declined while traveling?

Contact the bank using official contact information to verify the transaction and restore access.

Is mobile banking safe while I’m away?

Mobile banking is secure when used on trusted devices and secure connections. Avoid public Wi‑Fi for financial activity.

How soon should I report suspicious transactions?

Immediately. Prompt reporting helps limit losses and speeds resolution.