Safety tips for travelling

Before you leave home, follow these safety tips to protect your financial accounts.

Before planning to travel:

1. Know your card's PIN and limits.

   Knowing your card's Personal Identification Number (PIN) and daily limits can help make travel easier. The PIN assigned to your card account is required at ATMs and for some unattended terminals abroad such as ticket kiosks, parking lots, and gas stations. Note, PIN limitations may apply abroad and most international ATMs require a 4-digit PIN. To learn more, see credit card information and debit card information.

2. Set up account alerts.

   Alerts can help you track your account activity while traveling. If you're a Wells Fargo customer, get notified when your debit card or credit card is used so you can contact us quickly if something doesn't look right. You can choose to receive account alerts by push, text, or email, as available.

3. Update your mobile number and look into international calling.

   Ensure your contact information is up to date so your bank can reach you in case they detect suspicious activity. If you're traveling abroad, check with your mobile carrier about your options to receive SMS texts and your ability to make international calls. Note the international phone numbers for your bank and credit card providers and store them separately from your cards.

4. Photocopy or snap a picture of important items.

   These include your passport, driver's license, and the front and back of the debit and credit cards you will be bringing. This step can be helpful in case your passport or wallet is lost or stolen. Store these copies in a safe place or on a secure device, like your mobile phone, that is password, facial recognition, or fingerprint enabled.

5. Hold your mail.

   Bills and other sensitive documents containing identity-related information may increase your chances of identity theft if thieves get their hands on them while you're away. Set up automatic bill payments while you’re gone and request a mail hold with the U.S. Postal Service.

While you're traveling:

1. Have multiple payment options.

   Keep an alternate form of payment in a different bag in case your wallet is lost or stolen. If you’re a Wells Fargo customer, you can also add your eligible debit and credit cards to a digital wallet so you can pay in stores, in apps, or online with your mobile device where you see the digital wallet logo or Contactless symbol at checkout.

2. Only use secure Wi-Fi networks.

   Don’t access your financial accounts through public Wi-Fi networks, such as coffee shops or airports. Keep in mind your information and financial accounts may be at risk if you use an unsecure network.

3. Don't post selfies until you get home.

   Avoid posting your location or travel agenda on social media. Sharing these details allows potential thieves to keep track of where you are, making it easier for them to time a crime.

4. Limit your use of Bluetooth.

   Turn off your Bluetooth when not in use. Cyber criminals can pair their device with your Bluetooth and steal your information without you knowing.

5. Report your lost card quickly.

   If your debit or credit card is lost or stolen while traveling, report it to your bank right away. Wells Fargo customers can report a lost or stolen card and request a replacement online.  If you previously added your card to a digital wallet and you are still in possession of your device, we may update your digital wallet with your new card information so that you can continue using your digital wallet while you wait for your new card to arrive.  Eligible replacement cards can also be added to your digital wallet for use right away using the Wells Fargo Mobile^® app.

Following these travel tips can help ensure a safe vacation. If you need to contact your bank while traveling, help is just a phone call away – just dial the number on the back of your card or your bank’s website.

Review other fraud prevention and cybersecurity tips for managing your finances before, during, and after your holiday.