Travelling this summer? Stay safe, have fun, and prevent financial surprises with these financial tips.

1. If you’re planning to travel abroad to a destination where you’ll need to exchange currency, make sure to do that before you go. It’s almost always more expensive to exchange at the airport or visitors’ center. Check your local financial institution. At First Source you can exchange right online using the most current exchange rates. It’s simple, secure, and one less thing you need to worry about. First Source partners with Travelex, the world’s largest retail foreign exchange specialist, offering a wide range of currency, and a number of convenient delivery methods. Plus, if you order before 4:00 p.m. EST, you can get next day delivery! Choose from cash or a prepaid cash passport Mastercard^®, which you can reload at any time.

2. Let your credit and debit card holders know when you’re planning to travel, so they don’t block your card (thinking it may have been stolen). A quick call to let them know your destination(s) and dates will help make sure your funds are available when and where you need them.

3. Some credit cards charge an additional foreign transaction fee when using them abroad. If you plan to use a credit card in another country, make sure to bring one that doesn’t charge this added fee.

4. Planning to dine out? Make sure you know the region’s tipping policy. In some countries, tipping is not customary. If you’re tipping within the U.S. but outside our local area, remember to do the math rather than just double the tax. Other cities and counties may have lower tax rates, so simply doubling the tax could short your server.

Plan ahead, and have a great trip!