Your Summer Vacation Planning Checklist: Don't Leave Home Without Reading This First
Summer is just around the corner, and whether you're heading to the beaches of Florida,
exploring Europe, or taking a road trip through the American heartland, a little
preparation goes a long way - especially when it comes to your finances and personal
security. Before you pack your bags and hit the road (or the runway), run through our
checklist to make sure your trip is smooth, safe, and scam-free.
Before You Leave: Banking & Card Essentials
Notify Us If You're Traveling Abroad & Want Access to Your Debit Card
This one is important, so we're putting it first. **If you plan to use your debit card outside
the United States, please contact us before you go.**
To protect your accounts from fraudulent activity, we limit overseas access to your debit
card by default. It's one of the ways we look out for you - but we know those
protections can get in the way when you're the one doing the traveling.
A quick call, a visit to one of our Greater Cincinnati branches, or using Card Guard to
notify the bank of when and where you will be traveling will alert us to keep your debit
card open in these locations over the dates provided.
Know Your Daily Limits
Check your daily ATM withdrawal and debit card spending limits ahead of time. If you
think you'll need higher limits while traveling, contact us in advance. It's much easier to
adjust before you leave than to troubleshoot from a different time zone.
Alert Your Credit Card Companies Too
Your debit card isn't the only card that may get flagged. Contact each of your credit card
issuers to let them know your travel dates and destinations. Most allow you to do this
easily through their mobile apps. This simple step can prevent your card from being
declined at a restaurant or hotel abroad - or worse, being locked while you're far from
home.
Set Up or Review Mobile and Online Banking
Make sure you have access to our mobile app and digital banking portal before you
travel. Being able to monitor your account in real time is one of the best ways to catch
unauthorized activity quickly - no matter where you are in the world.
Have a Backup Payment Method
Never rely on a single card. Bring at least two payment methods (e.g., a debit card AND a
credit card) and store them separately. If one is lost or stolen, you'll have a backup while
the situation gets sorted out.
Keep Some Local Cash on Hand
ATMs aren't always available, and some international destinations - especially smaller
towns and markets - are cash-only. Exchange some currency before you leave or
withdraw local cash from a reputable ATM upon arrival. Avoid airport currency exchange
kiosks when possible, as they typically offer poor exchange rates.
Protect Yourself from Scams & Fraud
Travelers are prime targets for scammers. Here's what to watch for:
Watch Out for Skimmers at ATMs
Before inserting your card at any ATM - especially abroad - give the card reader a
gentle tug. Skimming devices are often loosely attached over the real card slot. Use ATMs
inside banks or well-lit, high-traffic areas when possible, and cover the keypad when
entering your PIN.
Be Wary of "Too Good to Be True" Deals
From fake tour packages to suspiciously cheap vacation rentals, travel scams are
everywhere. If a deal seems unbelievable, it probably is. Book accommodations and
activities through reputable, well-reviewed platforms, and always pay with a credit card
when possible - credit cards offer stronger fraud protection than debit cards for
purchases.
Don't Fall for the "Distraction" Scam
A common tactic in crowded tourist areas: someone distracts you (spills something, asks
for directions, causes a commotion) while an accomplice pickpockets your wallet, phone,
or bag. Stay aware of your surroundings, use a money belt or inside pocket for valuables,
and keep your bag in front of you in crowds.
Be Skeptical of Unsolicited "Help"
If a stranger suddenly offers to help you use an ATM, translate something, or guide you
somewhere - be cautious. Politely decline and seek help from official staff, hotel
concierges, or verified tourist information centers instead.
Avoid Unsecured Public Wi-Fi for Banking
Free Wi-Fi at airports, hotels, and cafes is convenient but risky. Cybercriminals can set up
fake hotspots or intercept data on unsecured networks. **Never access your bank
account or enter financial information over public Wi-Fi.** Use your phone's cellular data
or a VPN (Virtual Private Network) for sensitive browsing.
Social Media: Think Before You Post
It's tempting to share every exciting moment of your trip in real time - but oversharing
on social media can create real risks.
Don't Announce Your Trip Before You Leave
Posting "Leaving for two weeks in Italy tomorrow!" is essentially broadcasting to the
world that your home will be empty. Wait until you return to share the details of your
trip, or at minimum, keep your posts visible only to close friends and family.
Avoid Sharing Your Exact Location in Real Time
Tagging your exact location - especially at a hotel, Airbnb, or vacation rental - can give
bad actors information about where you're staying. Be vague with location details while
you're still there.
Check Your Privacy Settings
Before you leave, review the privacy settings on your social accounts. Limit posts to
friends only rather than the general public, and be mindful that even friends-only posts
can be screenshot and shared.
Don't Post Photos of Your Boarding Pass or Passport
Your boarding pass barcode and passport contain more personal information than you
might think. Never post photos of these documents - even partially visible versions can
be exploited.
Before You Lock the Front Door
Set Up Travel Alerts on Your Account
In addition to notifying us of your travel plans, be sure your SecureAlerts is set up in
digital banking. Real-time notifications for transactions, low balances, or unusual activity
can give you peace of mind while you're away.
Arrange for Bill Payments
Make sure any automatic payments are set up before you leave so you don't return to
late fees or service interruptions. Log into online banking to confirm scheduled payments
are in order.
Make Copies of Important Documents
Photocopy or photograph your passport, driver's license, travel insurance policy, and any
other important documents. Store digital copies securely in your email or a cloud service,
and leave physical copies with a trusted person at home.
Check Your Travel Insurance
Whether through a credit card perk or a separate policy, make sure you understand what
your travel insurance covers - including trip cancellation, medical emergencies, and lost
baggage. Know the claims process before you need it.
Share Your Itinerary with Someone You Trust
Leave a copy of your travel itinerary - including flight info, hotel addresses, and a rough
schedule - with a family member or close friend. In an emergency, this information is
invaluable.
Bon Voyage from Greater Cincinnati!
We want you to travel with confidence knowing your finances are in good hands. As your
local community bank, we're always here to help - before, during, and after your trip.
Our commitment to personal service doesn't take a vacation.