Keep your money safe on vacation.

Whether you’re hitting the road, catching a flight, or sneaking in a long weekend, the last thing you want to deal with is a card issue or fraud.

A little prep can make a big difference. Here are ways to keep your money safe so you can relax and enjoy your trip.

Before you pack your bags.

Travel notifications.

If you’re using your debit or credit card in a new place, your purchases can sometimes look suspicious.

Letting us know your travel plans helps avoid surprise card freezes while you’re trying to pay for dinner or check into your hotel.

That’s one quick step to take so you have one less thing to worry about.

Turn on fraud and card alerts.

If something doesn’t look right, you may get a text, email, or phone call to confirm a transaction. If fraud is suspected, your card may be temporarily blocked until we hear from you.

You can also set up card alerts and controls to:

• Get notified when your card is used.
• Spot unusual activity right away.
• Turn off your card off if needed.

Find these in the card management section of the STCU mobile app or online banking.

Pack a backup payment.

Nobody expects to lose their credit card or debit card while they’re trying to relax on vacation, but it can happen. To make sure you always have access to money, bring:

• A second card.
• A small amount of cash.

Keep it in a different location than your wallet, like a hotel safe or your luggage.

Hold your mail or go paperless. 

Mail piling up can be a sign that no one’s home. And, you don’t want somebody snagging your personal information from your mailbox.

To keep yourself safe you can:

• Ask USPS to hold your mail for up to 30 days.
• Switch to online statements so nothing sensitive is delivered while you're gone.

While you’re away.

Watch what you post.

We get it, you want to post the beach pics and show off all the amazing food you’re trying. But sharing real-time updates can tip people off that you’re not at home.

👍Pro-tip: Also avoid sharing personal details that could match your security questions. That includes pet names, your hometown, what year you graduated high school, and other personal information. 

Think twice about using public Wi-Fi.

Free Wi‑Fi is convenient, but it’s not always secure.

If you’re on public Wi‑Fi:

• Avoid logging into banking or financial apps.
• Don’t enter personal information.

If you need to check your accounts, switch to cellular data.

Check ATMs before using them. 

There’s a good chance you’ll have to pull cash out during your vacation and that means finding an ATM. Before inserting your card, look for signs of tampering like loose parts, extra attachments, or exposed wires. These could indicate a skimming device.

If something feels off, skip it and find another machine.

One last thing.

You don’t need to overthink every detail, but a few smart steps can go a long way.

Less worrying about your money. More enjoying your trip.

Bon voyage!