Oak Ridge, N.J., July 9, 2018—Whether your travels take you across the globe or across state lines, Lakeland Bank reminds consumers to plan carefully to keep their money safe and summer vacations on track.
“Most financial experts advise limiting the use of cash and paying with a debit or credit card for major purchases,” said Ellen Lalwani, Executive Vice President, Chief Retail Officer at Oak Ridge, New Jersey based Lakeland Bank. “That’s because credit and debit cards come with additional protections which can offer greater peace of mind while traveling.”
Lakeland Bank offers the following additional travel tips for consideration before taking off for a much-anticipated vacation.
- Share your travel plans with your community bank to avoid account holds or transaction rejections when out-of-the-ordinary transactions are presented for processing or posted.
- Contact your bank to request a chip-enabled card particularly if your travel plans take you overseas where chip-enabled technology is a card acceptance requirement for all card transactions.
- Carry at least two cards with you so you have a backup. Families or couples may get even greater back-up coverage if each person takes a different card.
- Set up transaction alerts for credit and debit cards. If you suspect your information has been compromised, contact your bank and credit card provider as soon as possible.
- Bring a list of emergency phone numbers, but remember, 800-numbers can only be used in the United States and Canada. Be sure to get a number for your bank that you can call if you are out of the country.
- Inquire whether your credit card provides travel accident insurance and traveler’s assistance. Ask your community bank what special services are available.
- Know the limits on how much you can withdraw and save your receipts.
- Thoroughly check any ATMs that you use. Ensure the card reader does not look like it has been tampered with. When in doubt choose another terminal.
- Lock away valuables such as passports, backup credit cards, copies of financial information and extra cash in your hotel safe.
- Use social media with care. Posting your pictures or whereabouts during travel could leave you susceptible to home invaders.
- Don’t wait for your monthly statement. Upon returning from your vacation, review your purchases and ATM withdrawals with your bank and credit card companies.
“Remember, in the event that something unfortunate does occur, reach out to a local Lakeland Bank branch or contact customer service where our staff stands ready to lend a helping hand,” said Lalwani. Visit Lakelandbank.com or call Customer Service at 866-224-1379.
About Lakeland Bank
Lakeland Bank is the wholly-owned subsidiary of Lakeland Bancorp, Inc. (NASDAQ:LBAI), which has $5.5 billion in total assets. The Bank operates 53 branch offices throughout Bergen, Essex, Morris, Ocean, Passaic, Somerset, Sussex, and Union counties in New Jersey including one branch in Highland Mills, New York; six New Jersey regional commercial lending centers in Bernardsville, Jackson, Montville, Newton, Teaneck and Waldwick; and one in New York to serve the Hudson Valley region. Lakeland also has a commercial loan production office serving Middlesex and Monmouth counties in New Jersey. Lakeland Bank offers an extensive suite of financial products and services for businesses and consumers. Visit LakelandBank.com for more information.
