When you are traveling, there are few key things that you rely on. Those being your Passport, Money, Credit Cards and of course, Cell Phone. Lif you lose your credit cards or if they are stolen, just remember it could be worse. Losing your passport and phone rank as the most stressful. Adding to your stress level is if you lose your credit in a foreign country. The key thing is to take immediate action to minimize your downside so you can enjoy the rest of your trip.
Act Fast:
The moment you realize your credit cards are missing, take immediate action. The sooner you report the loss, the less likely you are to be held responsible for unauthorized charges. You can choose to either freeze your credit card account or cancel them. One of the benefits in freezing them is that no additional charges will be made on the account but in the unlikely event that the credit cards are found, you can just unfreeze them and proceed as if nothing ever happened.
Contact Your Credit Card Companies:
- Call the 24/7 Number: Most major credit card companies have dedicated international hotlines for lost or stolen cards. These numbers are usually listed on the back of your card or on the company’s website.
- Provide Details: Be prepared to provide your card number, name, address, and any other relevant information to help the representative locate your account.
- Request a Block: Ask the company to immediately block your credit cards to prevent any unauthorized transactions or cancel your credit card.
- Inquire About Emergency Cash: Ask about options for emergency cash advances. Many credit card companies can arrange for you to receive cash in a foreign city, though this usually comes with fees.
- Get a Reference Number: Request a reference number for your call.
File a Police Report:
- Visit the Nearest Police Station: Credit card companies or travel insurance providers typically ask if you filed a police report. Do not get your hopes up to believe that you will get them back. The purpose of the report is for documentation purpose for these providers.
- Explain the Situation: Clearly explain how and where you lost your cards.
- Obtain a Copy: Get a copy of the police report for your records and for any claims you may need to file.
Contact Your Bank and Travel Insurance Provider:
- Check Your Policy: Review your travel insurance policy, if applicable to see if it covers lost or stolen credit cards. Also, see if your credit card has a travel insurance provisions.
- File a Claim: If your policy provides coverage, file a claim as soon as possible. You’ll likely need the police report and any other relevant documentation.
Take Precautions:
- Keep Copies: Before your trip, make copies of the front and back of your credit cards, driver’s license, passport and other important documentation. Store these copies separately from your actual cards (e.g., in your hotel room safe or in a secure online account). Also keep a digital copy on a secure cloud storage device that you can access remotely like the Google Photos Locked Folder.
- Separate Your Cards: If you’re carrying multiple credit cards, don’t keep them all in the same place. This way, if you lose one, you’ll still have access to others.
- Monitor Transactions: Keep a close eye on your credit card transactions, either online or through your bank statements.
- Use Digital Wallets: Consider using digital wallets on your phone, which can be a safer alternative to carrying physical cards. Another benefit of digital wallets especially with the Apple iPhone is that these digital wallets can automatically be updated with your new credit card numbers if you cancel the old ones. We found this extremely helpful on a recent trip.
Stay Calm and Seek Assistance:
Losing your credit cards can be stressful, but try to remain calm. Seek assistance from your hotel, the local authorities, and your credit card companies. By acting quickly and taking the necessary steps, you can resolve the situation and minimize any potential financial losses. Just remember, it could be worse!!