HSBC: Travellers should have different payment methods

It is a good idea to arm yourself with a few different forms of payment when abroad, it has been suggested.

People travelling to another country should inform their bank before they leave so it can identify any unusual activity, explained spokesperson from HSBC Tim Pie.

If they do not, then their account might be blocked as a security measure, he continued.

Mr Pie also advised holidaymakers to ensure they keep their mobile and contact details with them while away because if a bank stops any further transactions then they are likely to phone the customer.

It is worth having a back-up source of money too and "the good old traveller's cheque" could be a suitable option.

Brits who are going overseas and plan on purchasing expensive items, such as a holiday home or luxury yacht, might want use an international money transfer system to do so.

According to the company, HSBC is currently screening all card transactions in an attempt to cut down on fraud. Previously, it monitored around 25 per cent of account activity.