[EDNY]

Planning on a round trip to Missouri this May and would like to pay for fuel without using my primary debit card. Over the years my debit card has been compromised probably while purchasing gas at out of state gas stations.  (I look for skimmers etc) My funds are replaced by the bank but I'm out of a card for about a week

Would be a PITA if my card is shut down during a long trip.  So I am seeking any suggestions as to prepaid or refillable cards that I could use.  Looking for a card that can be used at most fuel stations if possible.  Let's say (for example) could one purchase several $250 pre paid debit cards and would the pumps know the balance for each card?

On a side note I signed up for text alerts each time my card is used to make a purchase..I like the text alerts but if I didn't make the purchase I'll need to shut down my card (and wait for a replacement..not good)

[Rattiac]

I quit using my debit card at all and just use a credit card just incase I have to fight some charges.  Also have the card gaurd so I can shut down the card on my phone. 
Years ago I had my debit card declined cause I went out of state and almost couldn't get home.  Luckily I kept a 20 dollar bill stashed just for gas.

People that have had to evacuate from hurricanes have said cash is king cause power outages prevent card usage.

[TFoch]

We used credit cards for our cross country trip in 2021.  Didn't have any issues.  I always tried to fill up on the closest pump that was facing the office or store.  I've been told it's less likely to have a scanner.  We did have two cards in case one was compromised.  Used the same one the whole trip, second one remained a back up.  We did have some cash as a third option.

[EDNY]

Thanks Tom

They are using wireless technology some how so skimmers aren't required any longer. They just need to be in the area of your card in the pump.

I hate buying anything online unless it's via paypal, once you submit card info online "even if secure" there is a person on the other end that see's your data.

Would be nice to buy for example several gift cards for maybe $150-$200, and buy fuel with them. That way if they were compromised you would still have your main card and a couple backups?

[sixball]

We always use credit cards for gas at home & on trips. We have one card that is just for gas others not backup. Sometimes we have gotten phone calls or texts if we go out of state to check if it is  us. My wife usually notifies the company before a big trip. I have a $200 stash & an extra key in my old '53. No matter what a lot of your information is out there & they always know where you are.