Best practices for banking abroad

July 21, 2022
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Whenever you prepare for a trip abroad, you can stay plenty busy with your travel to-do list: downloading the plane tickets, making sure the itinerary is updated, putting your passport in your carry-on, and making sure all the essential travel items are purchased and packed.

One thing you might have overlooked, however — and trust us, it happens — is making sure your banks know you’re heading out of the country for a bit. Here are some quick and easy tips to make sure you have a smooth money experience whenever international travel is on your calendar.

Place a travel note on your accounts

To ensure your debit cards work wherever you go, simply place a travel note on your accounts with us. You can easily do this from the UBTgo mobile app by tapping Contact Us, then Travel Notice.

In the message you send, please include:

  • The state(s) or country(s) you’ll be visiting
  • The start and end dates of your trip

If your travel plans change, don’t fret — you can share this update with us by sending a new Travel Notice or by contacting our Customer Support Team.

Some important things to note: Your UBT debit card will incur a 1% foreign transaction fee on transactions made outside of the United States. You’ll also want to contact your other banks or credit card companies separately to alert them of your travel plans; when you do, be sure to ask them about any foreign transaction fees you may incur on those accounts, as well.

Use multiple payment methods

Carrying some cash — to complement your debit and credit cards — is a good idea because it can be easier to stay within your budget by rationing cash. You’ll also avoid being denied service at places that don’t accept credit cards — and you’ll have money on hand for taxis, snacks, tipping, etc. 

Your destination outside the US likely has its own currency, and your best exchange rate is at ATMs. According to many travel blogs, avoiding currency exchange kiosks in airports is a good idea because of their exorbitant exchange rates. Just hit up the ATM when you arrive and grab some cash to use while you’re there. (Note: Be aware that you may incur fees or ATM surcharges when you use foreign ATMs.)

One last important tip: Make sure you’ve completed the travel notice on your account before attempting to withdraw currency from an ATM with your debit card. No one wants to be in a foreign country and have their debit card eaten by a hangry ATM!

Need help setting up a Travel Notice, or have other questions about banking abroad? Our Customer Support Team is always happy to assist you.

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