Small Things Number Twenty Two: Put Travel Alerts On Your Cards!

Despite Japan being a rather cash based society, I would recommend bringing a credit card or two with you. You can use them to get cash once there and I believe they can be used to help get you a traveler's visa. From what I have heard, a traveler's visa is what you get when you are in the country for less than 3 months and can prove you have enough money to support yourself during that time, usually that means having a credit card or two.

Most cards nowadays have the function of where if suddenly you are making purchases in a different place than expected they will freeze your card in order to protect your funds. However, that is a very bad thing if you are traveling in a different country. The solution to this is putting travel alerts on your accounts. Basically you either fill out a form, call the company, or see them in person to let them know when you are traveling and where to.

For my Discover card I just searched travel alerts and it took me a page where I could enter in the days I'm gone and where I will be. It was quite easy. It also shows me what to look for in stores and ATMs that will mean I can use my card. Pretty nifty.

My other card is currently annoying the hell out of me but I set up travel alerts on that as well by emailing the company.

Basically just make sure to do this before you try to use your card so you don't suddenly get your account frozen. Planning ahead is very important when it comes to traveling, especially far from home.