What allows a cardholder to make purchases without having the physical credit card on them?

The ability for a cardholder to make purchases without having the physical credit card on them is best represented by the option of convenience checks issued by credit companies. These checks are often linked to a credit card account, allowing the cardholder to write a check for a purchase, effectively drawing from their credit line without needing the physical card. This can be particularly useful in scenarios where electronic transactions are not possible.

The other options, while related to making payments, do not encompass the ability to transact without a physical card as comprehensively. Mobile payment apps and online banking features typically rely on a digital representation or connection to the actual credit card but require some form of authentication or initial setup with the physical card. Smartwatch technology also usually integrates with mobile payment systems that require the card to be registered digitally. Each of these options could involve the digital capacity to transact but does not directly address the capability afforded by convenience checks in the same way.