International
Tips when travelling overseas
Contrary to what the newspapers would sometimes have us believe, the rest of the world is not crime free. Be vigilant when travelling overseas and don’t make yourself an easy target for petty criminals and fraudsters. There are also a number of important issues regarding visas, passports and foreign exchange you need to be aware of.
- When looking at exchange rates, keep the following in mind:
- Exchange rates change many times per day
- Due to fluctuations, rates quoted on radio and television will probably not be the rates that you will receive
- There is a difference between a ‘buy’ and a ‘sell’ rate; different products are also sold at different rates.
- All financial institutions offer different rates, speak to us for a competitive rate.
- If the exchange rate is in your favour, why not buy early?
- You could also buy/sell your currency on different days so you get the benefit of different exchange rates
- When planning your holiday, ensure that your passport is valid for 6 months after your return date
- If you require a visa, make sure you apply in good time as the process at certain embassies can take a very long time
- Sign up for Internet Banking and pay your bills electronically while overseas so you don’t come back to nasty surprises
- Remember to make copies of your passport, all flight/travel documents, bank cards and the purchase agreement for traveller’s cheques in case of loss, theft or emergencies
- Give your itinerary and contact numbers to family – just in case
- Check the forecast for your destination before departure as temperatures and weather conditions may differ
- When buying travel tickets with your Absa Credit Card, you automatically qualify for free basic Travel Insurance, but you can get a free quote to upgrade your insurance online
- When packing, remember airline restrictions on hand luggage and the size of toiletries allowed on board
Contact Banking Internationally
Call us on
0860 151 151-
Call us on
+27 (0) 335 4020 
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