Banking tips every traveller should know

November 2025 | 5-minute read

What’s in this article

• Key things to do before travelling
• How to spend your money safely while on holidays
• Why you should let us know when you’re travelling and how we help keep your accounts safe. 

Whether you’re travelling overseas or around Australia, the last thing you want to worry about is banking problems while you’re in the middle of your holiday.

That’s why it may be a good idea to cover off these tips before you head off, for your own peace of mind and so we can help keep your accounts safe during your travels.

Before you leave:

1. Verify your contact details

If we detect any unusual activity, we may need to get in contact with you. If you haven’t checked what contact details are held with us, it's the perfect time to confirm your email or phone number. Search in the Westpac app 'update contact details' to ensure your details are up to date. 

2. Ensure all your push notifications are switched on

To stay informed of any changes to your contact details or account activity, such as Daily Payment Limits and Account Deposits and Withdrawals, switch on push notifications. If you're going overseas and don't have global roaming, you won't be able to receive our SMS codes. Before you go, make sure you enrol to receive your Security Codes via the App.

3. Turn on your app permissions

Switch on your microphone, location, and phone permissions to help us verify transactions and account changes and quickly flag any unusual activity. Allow app permission for your Apple or Android^TM so we can immediately flag and verify transactions or account changes from unexpected places. You can change this by going into your device's Settings, look for the Westpac app in Apps and allow permissions for all. This may be slightly different depending on your phone version.

4. Tell us when/where you’re travelling overseas

5. Download the latest version of the app

Check that you have the latest version of the Westpac App to ensure your device has all the up-to-date security features.

6. Add your card(s) to your Apple Pay, Google Pay™ or Samsung Pay™

Your debit or credit cards offers many ways for you to pay. By adding your card to your digital wallet, it enables biometric authentication (fingerprints and facial recognition) for transactions to ensure only you are accessing your money. You should only add your card to a Digital Wallet on a device that you are in control of.

7. Check your card's expiry and limits

Make sure you set your daily payment and withdrawal limits to an amount you’re comfortable with and check the expiry dates on your cards before you head off to make sure they don't expire while you're away.

While you're away:

1. Keep your card(s) and PIN secure

Do not keep these in the same place; and never leave cards unattended in public places or when making purchases. Never write your PIN down or store it anywhere; memorise it to keep your accounts secure.

2. If your card is lost or stolen while you’re travelling

You can easily lock, cancel, or order a new card via Cards Hub in the Westpac App. Cards Hub will also give you access to your digital card, so you're not stuck without your card until your return home.

3. If you notice unusual activity

4. Avoid using public computers and unsecured WIFI connections

Always use a secure internet connection, especially when you have to enter your personal and financial details.

5. Use a PIN or biometric authentication

6. If you need to contact us

For fast support, use the ‘Contact us’ feature in the Westpac App to connect directly with our team. Just follow the prompts so you get connected with the right team to help with your question.*

Before you head off on your next holiday, make sure you’ve ticked off each of these tips so it’s smooth travels and happy holidays. If you come across any troubles trying to access your Online Banking, give us a call on +61 2 9155 7700.