Check credit/debit card expiry dates

Get chip & pin cards where possible

Check /review credit card limits

Ensure card issuer can get replacement to you direct/via friends

Set up on-line banking to enable access from anywhere

Have more than one card available, split them between your party

Leave (in secure place) all unnecessary cards behind e.g. store cards

Make arrangements for statements due while you are away to be paid

Review/cancel outdated/unwanted standing orders/direct debits

Inform your card issuer of your itinerary

Check your cards are valid in destination country

Be vigilant before signing sales vouchers. Put lines through blank spaces. Check the number of zeros

Keep cards within sight at all times. Taken away they can be ‘skimmed’

Keep a separate note of issuers phone numbers to report loss/theft

Take some cash in local currency, keet to a minimum

Consider taking travellers cheques and

Not the numbers (photocopy) and leave one set behind

Consider using/renting a safe at your destination/hotel