June, thanks to school schedules, relatively mild temperatures and more reasonable prices, is a big month for foreign travel. As such, it's also a good time for a few last-minute pointers. We (Mr. Makarma) would like to remind you that:
Credit cards - If you'll be doing any foreign travel, you may want to call the customer service numbers for your credit cards and let them know where you're headed. Automated fraud protection systems are designed to notice, and react to, out-of-the-ordinary behavior. You could save yourself a lot of aggravation by letting them know the credit card you've used to buy nothing but groceries in your hometown, will now also be used for those hotel charges in Helsinki.
Cell phones - First of all, make sure the cell phone you're currently using will even work where you're headed. Then, look into what a phone call made overseas will cost you and consider signing up for a special rate plan if it makes sense for your calling/data needs. Finally, learn how to make a cell phone call (i.e., what additional numbers need to be dialed) when making a call either within the country you're visiting or from that country to a number back home.
Automated Teller Machines (ATM) - Many foreign ATMs will let you make a withdrawal from your account in the US. Besides the obvious (i.e., learn what additional charges apply), make sure your PIN number will work overseas. For example, don't wait until you get where you're going to learn your six-digit PIN may not work on an ATM which accepts only four digits. Also, remember that the currency that will be dispensed will likely be that of the country you're visiting. Have an idea about exchange rates so you'll know what you're withdrawing from your checking account.
Take care of the items above, along with those on that checklist you've been developing (you have put together a checklist, haven't you?), and you can help ensure yourself a bon voyage.
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