Need advice on using credit cards outside of the USA, fraud alerts...

[steve2470]

Hello kind readers,

Some of you know that I love travel very much. In February 2022, I am doing another round-the-world trip (as in 1997) to South Korea, New Zealand, India, South Africa, and Colombia. I will be using some local currency, of course, but also my credit cards when I need to.

Question: I know the most important thing to do, is to call the bank/credit union and inform them exactly what you're doing, where you are going, and what you will be purchasing (as much as you can). Yesterday, I did just that. I called my credit union, went through all the airfares and hotel reservations I would be purchasing, and asked explicitly what else I could do to fend off the fraud department. An hour later, the fraud department demanded I call them. I was a tad frustrated.

My impression (perhaps faulty) is that American Express is the most friendly credit card to international travel and what you have to buy.

Any more advice ? I just don't want any problems or have to make any phone calls. Thank you in advance !

Steve

P.S. Yes, I am fully aware of COVID-19 issues. I will deal with those. Hopefully by February, the COVID-19 threat worldwide will be either dead or on its last legs.