Traveling Soon? What to Do Before You Go
Start with preparation.
Because a little planning can help your trip go smoothly.
Before heading out of town—whether it’s a weekend getaway or an extended vacation—it’s a good idea to take a few minutes to prepare your account for travel. One of the most important steps is letting us know where you’ll be.
Why Travel Can Trigger Alerts
When you travel, your spending patterns often change. Purchases in new locations or states can look unusual compared to your normal activity.
That’s why transactions made while traveling may:
Be flagged for review
Trigger a fraud alert
Be temporarily declined until confirmed
These alerts are designed to add another layer of protection when activity looks out of the ordinary.
What is a Travel Note?
A travel note is a simple notice placed on your account that lets us know:
Where you’ll be traveling
When your travel starts
When you expect to return
This helps reduce unnecessary interruptions while you’re away.
How to Add a Travel Note
To place a travel note on your account, call Signet before you leave.
A team member can:
Add the travel note to your account
Answer questions about card usage while traveling
Help you prepare for out-of-town purchases
Placing a travel note only takes a few minutes and can help avoid surprises.
What a Travel Note Helps With
Adding a travel note can help:
Reduce unexpected transaction interruptions
Make card use smoother while traveling
Prevent confusion if purchases are reviewed
It doesn’t remove all alerts, but it does provide helpful context when transactions occur outside your normal area.
A Few Travel Tips Before You Go
Before heading out:
Make sure your contact information is up to date
Bring an alternate payment option, if possible
Know how to reach Signet while you’re away
A little preparation goes a long way toward a smoother trip.
We’re Here to Help
If you’re planning to travel and have questions about your account, cards, or access while you’re away, our team is happy to help.
At Signet Federal Credit Union, we want you to enjoy your trip—not worry about your banking.
Traveling & Your Account: Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to notify Signet before I travel?
It’s recommended. Calling Signet to place a travel note on your account can help reduce unnecessary interruptions while you’re away.
How do I place a travel note?
Simply call Signet and let a team member know where and when you’ll be traveling.
Does a travel note prevent all alerts?
No. A travel note helps provide context, but some transactions may still be reviewed if they appear unusual.
What happens if I forget to add a travel note?
Your card may still work, but some transactions could be flagged or declined until confirmed.
How far in advance should I call?
Calling a day or two before you leave is usually sufficient.
Should I update my contact information before traveling?
Yes. Having current phone and email information helps ensure you receive alerts if needed.
Can I still access digital banking while traveling?
Yes. Online and mobile banking remain available while you’re away.
Who should I contact if I have trouble while traveling?
If you experience issues, contact Signet during operational hours as soon as possible. A team member can help review your account and next steps.