MSE News: Taking cards abroad: Should I tell my bank?

Grandmasu

I see that NatWest is listed as not needing to be informed. I agree it is useless to do so. I had informed them about my holiday dates and destination and was assured that all was in order and had the rates explained to me.

To my horror on my 3 week holiday my card was blocked and even the local bank was unable to release it.

Fortunately I had another card with me and was able to use this (I had informed them) but had not wanted to use this particular account.

On my return I contacted NatWest to complain and was told there was no point in informing them as the computer would automatically block my card! When asked why they had acknowledged the dates and destination and told me any fees involved they just apologised and again said the information was never put on the computer.

I am now in the process of closing this account which I have had for over 25 years, needless to say that doesn't seem to worry them either.

MickBee

We use a SAGA Visa card when abroad, mainly to withdraw cash at ATMs. I would recommend telling them before travelling - and commend both their security and their customer service.
We had a problem in Gran Canaria in January 2013, caused by repeatedly attempting to withdraw €400, which (unknown to us) was above the sterling limit; the card was blocked - seems reasonable, if it had been stolen. I texted a son in the UK, who texted back the SAGA helpline number. I called the number, and immediately asked to be called back (I have a PAYG mobile with limited credit.) SAGA did so, and as I could remember the security questions & (fortunately & fortuitously) the amount of my last payment, the account was unblocked. I contacted them recently about making payments for our next trip - I was advised to contact them within two weeks of departing, as their system will not allow earlier notice.

Diaaaz

Grandmasu wrote: »

I see that NatWest is listed as not needing to be informed. I agree it is useless to do so. I had informed them about my holiday dates and destination and was assured that all was in order and had the rates explained to me.

To my horror on my 3 week holiday my card was blocked and even the local bank was unable to release it.

Fortunately I had another card with me and was able to use this (I had informed them) but had not wanted to use this particular account.

On my return I contacted NatWest to complain and was told there was no point in informing them as the computer would automatically block my card! When asked why they had acknowledged the dates and destination and told me any fees involved they just apologised and again said the information was never put on the computer.

I am now in the process of closing this account which I have had for over 25 years, needless to say that doesn't seem to worry them either.

NatWest and RBS have just introduced something on their online banking which lets you register your debit card. You can also register your Credit Card over the phone. Whether it will make a difference or not, I don't know- but they do now have the option...

vics199

Grandmasu - I have the same problem with NatWest - most places outside of Europe they block my card and I have to call them up to unblock. I tried to tell them once but they said they can't put anything on the system to say that you are going away. Goes against their slogan of helpful banking!

As for Nationwide, they block my credit card without fail every time I step foot outside Europe even if I tell them that I'm going. Particularly USA and central/south America.

bathtub

I'll dispute the advice that Santander don't need to be informed. I've always checked and been told otherwise. They even told me they had to be informed when I had a recent trip to the Isle of Man! They then went on to tell me I'd be charged a currency transfer fee!! I was laughing so much I don't think they heard me explaining it's Sterling.

FatLes

You should also include Cumberland Building Society in your list of banks to inform when you go abroad.

( I should know as I wrote the code! )

asm123

I always seem to have trouble phoning HSBC to notify them I am going abroad. The call centre is somewhere in the far east and they have security problem then they want to send forms out. As I am travelling within 2 days there is not much point posting stuff. I can ring Halifax, first direct and santander, with no problems and even text MBNA which is really useful as I often travel at short notice.

Any one any ideas on how to deal with HSBC as in the past they are the only ones ever to have blocked my card when travelling.

tobiascurious

FatLes wrote: »

( I should know as I wrote the code! )

tell us more!! if you don't tell CBS do they automatically block all overseas transactions?!

ManAtHome

asm123 wrote: »

Any one any ideas on how to deal with HSBC as in the past they are the only ones ever to have blocked my card when travelling.

I don't have a HSBC account any more, but I used to advise them of travels through online banking (somewhere in the long list of options at the left-hand side of the screen when viewing my current account).

Pretty grotty card for travelling with though...

cdotr

This article isn't correct You should definitely tell Santander when traveling abroad, they can add multiple countries as well. This can also be done on their online banking via a secure message, Just make sure you include dates!