I have used a variety of credit/debit cards abroad for many years and never bothered to inform the bank.

Some years ago, when spending some substantial sums in a short period of time(furnishing my property) the security people of Citibank called my UK phone, fortunately my daughter answered and explained the situation. The guy said they were about to stop the card.

My pal with a Nationwide account had his card stopped in Florida when trying to buy an expensive ring, he had been using it for the previous week without problem. He was told exactly the same as I about prior notification being required when travelling abroad, which prompted my call.

Anyway to clarify I sent a message to Nationwide and got a response.



<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:To: Call Centre
Subject: Credit Card general query

I use my Credit and Debit cards frequently abroad.

I always notify you of the dates when I will be abroad and using these cards.

I have been told that this is not necessary by other Nationwide customers; and it is not a requirement in your terms and conditions.

Can you please give me Nationwide's official position on this issue.

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Thank you for your enquiry.

It is not compulsory to advise us of any trips abroad, however it is advisable, so that your account is noted should any security issues arise.

Regards

Maureen Bushaway
Customer Advisor
Nationwide Credit Card Services [/quote]

As said above It does no harm to notify them. and on-line it takes seconds.