SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/wt-tell-bank
Before an international trip, what should you check with your bank?
Check that your cards will work abroad, and tell your bank you're traveling.
- Whether it sells airline tickets
- Whether your cards will work where you're going ✔
- Whether it can stamp your passport
Why: Australia's Smartraveller checklist says to tell your bank you're traveling and check whether your cards will work. It also says to carry several ways to pay.
Huh, didn't know that: The US State Department suggests learning your bank's policies before you go, because unexpected fees sometimes apply abroad.
I told my bank I would be in Paris. It said oui to my croissant purchase, then charged me.
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References
Answer: Whether your cards will work where you're going. Australia's Smartraveller checklist says to tell your bank you're traveling and check whether your cards will work. It also says to carry several ways to pay.
- Essentials checklist (Smartraveller, Australian Government) www.smartraveller.gov.au/travel-essentials/essentials-checklist
Tell your bank you're travelling and check if your cards will work. Have several payment options.
Checked 2026-10-12. - Money and banks (US Department of State, BridgeUSA) exchanges.state.gov/us/money-and-banks
Familiarize yourself with your bank’s policies before you go
Checked 2026-10-12.
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