MSE News: Should you call your bank before going abroad?

Former_MSE_Helen

When you use your card to make purchases abroad, it can mean you display an abnormal spending pattern...

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Should you call your bank before going abroad?




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PeteDoff

MSE_Helen wrote: »

When you use your card to make purchases abroad, it can mean you display an abnormal spending pattern...

I'd better call my bank before spending anything in Britain then.

maman

I do this but get varied responses. When I explain that I may use my debit/credit card. Some thank me and make a note of it. Others sound bemused and tell me to have a lovely holiday!

menai

I have just contacted SANTANDER, your information id incorrect. You do NOT have to notify them if using credit card in Europe.

whitewing

I did (two banks) and everything worked well.

harz99

menai wrote: »

I have just contacted SANTANDER, your information id incorrect. You do NOT have to notify them if using credit card in Europe.

And what happens if your going further than Europe...............?

whitewing

I didn't tell my bank when we went to centreparcs for the weekend and they blocked my Tesco order that I did online on the Sunday morning for delivery when we got back! (I know I should get a life).

worried_jim

It makes no difference, its all algorithms. Bought currency with your debit card? Used your card at Gatwick? Buying dinner in Bodrum? Computer says yes. Clever things these systems.

boots_babe

I don't understand why in the article Nationwide is listed as one of the ones you SHOULD call.

Every time we go away, I always call my banks just in case. Every time, Nationwide always tell me I don't need to tell them - I don't even get as far as telling them where I'm travelling, or dates.

They always say instead, to use the card for a transaction at the airport before leaving, as that way they'll know that I've travelled abroad.

So I'm not sure the article is quite up to date?

(I should add that I've rung them about 3 times a year for at least the last 2 to 3 years, and this has always been Nationwide's response).

PeteDoff

boots_babe wrote: »

They always say instead, to use the card for a transaction at the airport before leaving, as that way they'll know that I've travelled abroad.
.

Buying something in a UK airport doubles the cost of the trip though.

Mojisola

Barclaycard is listed as "No" but I've had trouble twice and that was only in other parts of the UK!