5. Make sure you have with you the correct phone number of exact places you need to call, and your credit card account numbers, in case your card is lost or stolen. Keep these numbers in a separate place from your credit cards. For example, if you keep you cards in your purse, keep the number in your jacket pocket, hotel room, or shoe if you have to. Your purse or briefcase could get stolen or lost with your credit cards in them, and if the lost/stolen reporting information is with them, you'll lose the number to call and valuable time. Thieves could spend hundreds of dollars by the time you track it all down again, especially if you're in another country.

6. Let your bank know ahead of time that you're planning to travel, and to where, and which credit cards you're taking. On trips, we spend more than we normally do. Bank personnel is trained to decline cards that show unusual spending sprees to protect their customers. It won't be a fun trip if that fabulous and expensive restaurant you just enjoyed declined your card. You'll spend a half day of your vacation calling your bank to prove it was you, not a thief.

7. Make sure you have your passwords, pin numbers, social security number, or any other ID with you that will allow you to access your account if you have to call to report a lost or stolen card. If you call your bank to report a lost or stolen card, the first thing they'll want is your password or social security number so they can be sure it's you, not the thief. If it's not memorized then bring it along and keep in a safe hiding place away from the cards. By the way, report lost or stolen cards immediately. Do not wait. And ask your bank how much you'll be responsible for if someone uses your card. Most banks have limits. Or you may want to ensure a limit.

8. If you're going out for the day and don't plan on using the cards, leave them in a safety deposit box at the hotel, or room safe. We do recommend, however, that you always take one card with you. You never know.

9. Try to keep cash, travelers checks, and credit cards separate when all are with you. We strongly recommend body belts that wrap around your waist under your clothes. Or if with a companion, split up the property.

10. Don't flash your cash or credit cards around at any time.

11. Get receipts for everything even if you can't write it off.

12. Find out the location of a Western Union or wiring service both near home and at the hotel. Think Murphy's Law. If it can happen, it will. Leave some cash with someone you trust, the address of a local wire service near home, and the hotel information. Ask your hotel if they offer a wire transfer service, or who does, get the transfer information and leave it with your trusted friend. In the event your credit cards or currency is stolen, you can call your friend to wire cash immediately. Being prepared up front will prevent the hassle of trying to find all the information you need from a foreign location, under stressful conditions, which could take all day. Happy Trails!