Clark Howard's Tips

Alert your credit card companies when traveling

February 7, 2005

Clark got a call from his credit card company recently, telling them that his card had been shut down.

He had gotten stuck traveling during a winter storm and had to buy new clothes in three different states before he got back home. So the company blocked his account until he could prove that he'd been in all those places in one day.

It's a good benefit on the one hand because it prevents you from losing money if your card is stolen. But it's also sort of a hassle when the card is blocked.

Just be sure to call your credit card companies ahead of time to let them know you will be out of town, especially if it's an international trip. That way, you won't be blocked from using your card when you need it most.

Consumer advice courtesy of