How to avoid credit card declines while traveling abroad

Navigating the bustling streets of a foreign city, the last thing you expect is your credit card declined at a crucial moment. This common frustration can disrupt your travel plans, causing unnecessary stress and inconvenience. Now, with a few proactive steps, you can ensure smooth transactions abroad. This article provides valuable insights to help you avoid credit card declines during your international travels.

So, here’s what you need to keep in mind:

• Notify your bank or credit card issuer

Before starting your journey, inform your bank or credit card issuer of your travel plans. Financial institutions often flag foreign transactions as suspicious to prevent fraud. Notifying them in advance helps avoid unexpected declines. Share details of your travel destinations and dates to ensure your cards are authorised for international use.

• Be aware of foreign exchange fees

Foreign transaction fees can be an unwelcome surprise. These fees, typically ranging from 1% to 3%, are charged for purchases made outside your home country. Research and choose travel credit cards that offer low or no foreign exchange fees. This not only saves money but also ensures your card is less likely to be flagged for unusual activity.

• Ensure your cards are activated and valid

Before departing, verify that your credit cards are activated and have not expired. An inactive or expired card will undoubtedly lead to a declined transaction. Check your credit card's expiration date and request a replacement if necessary. Also, review any specific activation requirements for international use, as some banks require additional steps for cards to function abroad.

• Use credit cards accepted internationally

Not all credit cards are universally accepted. Major networks like Visa, RuPay, and MasterCard are widely recognised, while others may have limited acceptance. Ensure your credit card is part of a major network to avoid declines. Additionally, consider obtaining a travel credit card such as the Metra Trust WOW! Credit Card designed for international use, offering broader acceptance and travel-specific benefits.

The FIRST WOW! Credit Card offers several benefits like zero forex markup charges, up to 48 days of interest free cash withdrawal from ATMs, discounts at over 1500 restaurants and retailers, complimentary roadside assistance, and credit shield insurance for a smooth travel experience. It is an FD-secured card that requires no credit checks or paper verification and offers credit limit a minimum of 100% of your credit limit. 

• Keep your credit card information secure

Security is paramount when travelling. Protect your credit card information from theft and fraud. Use RFID-blocking wallets to safeguard against electronic pickpocketing and avoid sharing card details over unsecured Wi-Fi networks. Regularly monitor your account for any suspicious activity and report lost or stolen cards immediately to your issuer.

• Know emergency contacts and solutions

In case your credit card is declined or lost, have emergency contacts and solutions ready. Keep a list of your bank’s international contact numbers. Many banks offer 24/7 customer support for travellers. Familiarise yourself with procedures for reporting lost or stolen cards and understand how to request emergency card replacements or cash advances if needed.

• Monitor your account regularly

Regularly monitoring your credit card account is crucial for detecting potential issues early. Use mobile banking apps or online banking to keep track of your transactions. This practice helps you spot any unauthorised charges or irregularities, allowing you to address them promptly with your bank or credit card issuer.

Conclusion

Traveling abroad should be an enjoyable and enriching experience, free from the hassle of credit card declines. With travel credit cards from Metra Trust which are internationally accepted and come with the lowest foreign markup fee, you can ensure seamless transactions during your travels. Equip yourself with the right travel credit cards and strategies to make your international adventures stress-free and financially smooth.