Playing your cards right - tips for traveling with credit cards
Using credit cards while traveling is a good idea for a number
of reasons:
--You have a record of your expenditures for record-keeping and
tax purposes (especially important if you travel for business)
--You may get a better exchange rate when obtaining foreign
currency when using your credit card. --Credit card companies
can refund disputed charges and may offer extra guarantees,
special deals or warranties. --Your liability in the case of a
stolen credit card is limited to $50
But, traveling these days is often a juggling act of luggage,
boarding passes, identification cards, passports and a gauntlet
of security measures. These identification acrobatics can leave
one slightly addled and perhaps more at risk of being targeted
by an enterprising pickpocket or purse snatcher.
And, even though your liability is limited, costs can quickly
add up if multiple cards are involved. Factor in the hassle and
increased risk of identity theft, and it is apparent a few
preemptive measures can save you from a boatload of heartache.
Consider the following tips as guidelines to traveling safely
and affordably with your credit cards