many places require a credit card number to secure a booking - its not unusual. I have a credit card with a low $500 limit which I use in these circumstances as well as using it for PayPal. But I guess it becomes a problem if you don't have a credit card.
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Jenny and Barry
2009 Roma Elegance / 2013 Colorado. Permanent travellers 2011-2015 now just travel for 4-6 mths
Simple, you read the card number to then each 4 digit group at a time and they will repeat the numbers back to you for confirmation. Then you give them the expiry date, some will ask for the three digit number on the back of the card as well. If all is OK they will tell you so as they type the numbers in as you read them. They get a confirmation if all is OK and if you go onto the internet banking you will see a pending transfer on the account. I have never had a problem if their system is up and running.
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PeterD Nissan Navara D23 diesel auto, Spaceland pop-top Retired radio and electronics technician. NSW Central Coast.
I've had to do this on a few occasions and never had a problem. Last place was about a month ago when I booked into Wave Rock CP in WA - they hadn't processed the payment prior to my arrival, and then knocked $6 per night off their quoted fee as I'm a solo traveller. However, it would be wise to check or ask if there are any charges for cancellations or no-shows before finalising the booking.
Cheers
Joe
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Hino Rainbow motorhome conversion towing a Daihatsu Terios
even though they record your credit card number they often don't process it at that time but rather after you have arrived. I think in most cases its taken in case you don't show up.
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Jenny and Barry
2009 Roma Elegance / 2013 Colorado. Permanent travellers 2011-2015 now just travel for 4-6 mths
Some banks offer a debit/credit card at little or no cost, that you can choose to link to other accounts for ease of topping up.
We converted a CBA chequeing account to a Mastercard and use it for internet purchases. It never has more than a few hundred dollars sitting idle and doesn't atttact card fees.