When traveling to various nations, whether for leisure or longer journeys, digital nomads and tourists must constantly pay close attention to their safety and protect their possessions.
I have only discovered one tested method to safeguard your money during all my trips worldwide. You must keep it properly and discreetly hidden. This is why I decided to review the best money belts for travel.
A simple and affordable way to preserve your money when traveling is to get a good money belt. It will increase your security, ease your mind, and aid in keeping your finances organised.
Simply put, the roughly $20 investment is more than worthwhile.
The review’s goal is to identify the ideal travel money belt. Read on to find out the right way to wear your money belt, my dislikes, and likes about every belt on this list, their features, prices, my go-to choice, and much more.
Let’s examine the top money belts for travelers in 2022, so you may travel without worrying.
In a Nutshell, Which Are the Best Security Belts for Travelers?
- Best Men’s Money Belt – LeatherBoss Men’s Money Belt
- Best Money Belt for Electronic Security – Alpha Keeper Money Belt
- Best Travel/Running Waist Belt – Stashbanz Running Belt
- Best Tech Bag – Wandrd Tech Bag
- Best Money Belt for Europe – Peak Travel Money Belt
Is a Money Belt Necessary For Travel?
Many individuals would think investing in a money belt is unnecessary, and others might think it’s pointless since it’s an even bigger target.
These criticisms are valid; pickpocketing is not always a given, and wearing a big money bag is already quite blatant advertising. When you open your money belts to access your money, they become unarmed—even the highly subtle ones.
The truth is that you are still in danger. Sure, nine out of ten times, you might be able to get away with going down a sketchy street, but what about that one time?
Many of your plans might go awry if you lose your money. Dealing with credit card companies will also be a hassle when your credit cards are stolen.
A money belt serves more as a safety net than a real deterrent. Keeping some cash hidden when travelling is a terrific method to relieve yourself if things go south. You’ll be better off since you have prepared an emergency supply in case your purse or wallet is taken.
Money belts are relatively inexpensive purchases; most cost around the same as your t-shirt.
So is a money belt a necessity? Actually, sometimes. But are they great for your convenience? Absolutely! Money belts can come in handy. Similar to condoms, it is preferable to have one when there’s no need for it than not to have one when you require one.
With that said, let’s quickly examine the most popular money belts available today.
What are the Best Travel Money Belts?
1. Wandrd Tech Bag – Best All Round Tech Bag
Price: $34.27
The Wandrd Tech Bag perfectly meets your demands for tech organisation. Short travels and daily carry are all supported.
Your stuff is accessible and safe since each bag is carefully created with special organising features and the best materials.
On the rear panel of each bag are a unique clip system and webbing loop that allows you to combine any two bags to make a larger bag.
Using this approach, the Tech Bag may also be fastened to the Accessory Strap loops on the exterior of the DUO or PRVKE. Additionally, Wandrd provides a stylish Carry Strap that can be attached to bags of all sizes, making it perfect for daily use.
Important details:
- Non-RFID blocking
2. Stashbanz Running Belt – Best Travel/Running Waist Belt
Price: $22.99
Do you have a compulsive jogging or trail running habit when travelling? Are you only looking for a safe storage pouch to carry when you run at home? Stashbanz has developed the best running belt for your demands.
This money belt has four safe pockets and a brand-new zippered secret pocket made of moisture-wicking and quick-drying spandex.
This device can hold a ton of things. It is the solution you’re looking for if you are the type of traveller who always has a full wallet, phone, passport, earbuds, debit cards, hostel keys, and lip balm jammed into your pockets.
Based on your physical activity, the running belt fits comfortably over or under your clothing and is available in five various sizes.
Produced in the USA.
Important details:
- Unadjustable
- A little overkill as it has too many pockets.
3. Peak Travel Money Belt – Best Money Belt for Europe
Price: $16.97
Why Europe? This is because while backpacking in European countries, you must have some flair to complement theft prevention.
It’s not really a belt; it fits just around the abdomen underneath the shirt. The style is modern, functional, and cozy to wear.
If your Peak money belt is stolen, you might receive up to $250.
The Peak money belt’s insurance plan distinguishes it from competing products. The corporation will compensate you with $250 (which, in my opinion, isn’t much) if any James Bond-style pickpocket manages to steal your belongings. Nevertheless, this is the only security belt manufacturer I know of that provides insurance.
An RFID reflector is included in the Peak travel belt to thwart digital pickpockets.
Additionally, the belt is constructed with water-resistant nylon, so you won’t need to worry if caught in a downpour.
Important details:
- Not a belt
- More expensive than the Ray Tix travel belt
4. LeatherBoss Men’s Leather Money Belt – Best Men’s Money Belt
Price: $10.99
The LeatherBoss men’s travel belt, our top selection for the finest leather travel money belt, is a fantastic alternative for travellers seeking a helpful accessory that also conceals their cash.
The fact that this leather belt lacks some of the storage compartments and features that other money belts have is what makes it so excellent. Nobody can tell if you have a belt with cash hidden within.
It has the same appearance as any regular belt you might have on a typical weekday.
The LeatherBoss undoubtedly scores highly on the style front. It is enticing, simple, practical, and a fantastic method to carry cash overall. It is among the most admirable men’s money belts available.
Important details:
- Leather is not waterproof, making it unsuitable for outdoor activities like trekking.
- RFID-free blocking
5. Alpha Keeper Money Belt – Best Money Belt for Electronic Security
Price: $16.98
Bringing a ton of credit cards on your trip? Have you already been burned by electronic thieves? Do you wish to increase your level of electronic security? Your needs will be more than satisfied by Alpha Keeper.
The Alpha Keeper travel belt is designed with a 3-layer 100% RFID-blocking cloth to keep your belongings safe. This water-resistant travel belt is constructed from premium 210D rip-stop nylon, which is strong and durable on roads.
The Alpha Keeper travel belt includes seven safety sleeves, so you may add extra barriers to items like your wallet, passport, and phone even while you aren’t travelling if the three levels of RFID shielding are not sufficient.
I have never heard of someone getting electronically defrauded at a hostel. However, extra security is always a good thing.
To cut the long tale short, if you are wearing an Alpha Keeper money belt, there is no chance that electronic thieves will be able to access your precious stuff.
Important details:
- Allegedly less comfy than other money belts during travel.
- Not a belt
6. EazyMate Travel Running Belt
Price: $21.99
The EazyMate running belt was made with active individuals in mind, much like the Stashbanz running belt.
Given that there is only one central pocket area to manage, I prefer the Eazymate over the Stashbanz running belt.
The belt is constructed of a fine Spandex fabric combination that is smooth as silk and has good elasticity. This belt is ideal for those who run in large cities regularly, whether at home or abroad.
You may anticipate a comfy running belt that will not disturb you while jogging, as most Amazon reviewers gushed about comfort and fit.
Be sure to get the ideal fit because the EazyMate belt is in various sizes.
Important details:
- Supposedly slips and rides up
- Over time, edges tend to curl and lose their form.
- Is bulky
7. Alpine Rivers Travel Money Belt
Price: $16.99
Safeguarding electronic data is one of the critical priorities of the Alpine Rivers. Water-resistant 210D rip-stop nylon and 100% RFID-blocking are used to make the belt.
Plenty of room and simple access to your valuable belongings and money is made possible by the elegant, compact form.
The features include a sizable hidden back pocket and two front pockets. The interior compartments easily organise cash, credit cards, tickets, and passports.
The Alpine Rivers version also includes RFID-blocking sleeves to provide additional security for your phone and credit cards.
The Alpine Rivers money belt is tough, well-made, and will withstand the years of abuse that camping equipment endures.
Important details:
- Bigger than other money belts.
- Somewhat hefty under form-fitting garments.
- There are several negative evaluations regarding instances of theft outside the money belt.
8. Flipbelt Money Travel Belt
Price: $28.99
The Flipbelt money belt is also made for those who are active. The belt is built with spandex/lycra. The absence of buckles that might chafe against your body is a significant benefit of the design.
The Flipbelt architecture has been imitated by a lot of copycat websites online. Be aware; Flipbelt manufactures its most outstanding money belt.
The belt’s highlights include multi-access pockets for quick access and management.
It’s excellent to know that the money belt can be machine washed if you want to work out while donning it.
Important details:
- Based on the nation where it was made, the sizes might vary.
- Too small of a pocket to fit an iPhone 6 or bigger.
What to Look for When Buying a Money Belt for Traveling
A money belt is an easy concept. They are made to keep your cash secure by enclosing it all in a zippered pouch that is permanently attached to and always kept near your body. If your money is hidden behind your shirt or belt, pickpockets can’t get to it!
Money belts have been widely used for a very long time. Different styles, levels of performance, and ideal uses are available.
There are a lot of different travel money belts available. So, how do you choose the belt that best suits your preferences?
1. Features
You must ask yourself a few questions before getting a money belt.
What purpose do you want the money belt to serve? Are you solely interested in a belt to conceal your cash? Would you like a money belt that may also serve as a place to keep your credit card, passport, and phone? Will you move about while carrying your money belt?
Each belt includes a unique combination of bands, compartments, clips, buckles, and zippers. You must consider what style suits you when you get a travel belt.
I favour simple money belts. You don’t necessarily require huge pockets to conceal cash, but the decision is yours because every traveller has different demands.
2. Fit
A comfy money belt is what you need. When backpacking, you’ll wear your travel belt most of the time. In essence, it will grow to be a part of your body.
Make sure it fits precisely and doesn’t rub or chafe on you, which will irritate the skin and ruin your day.
There are even scarves with secret pockets if you detest the thought of wearing money belts.
3. Intended Use and Activity
Consider getting a money belt made especially for your specific use. For instance, if you’re an outdoor person, you should get a running belt.
They are excellent for folks who frequently jog. They will safeguard your belongings, help with management, and theoretically keep your stuff immobile when moving.
You can also go for designs made with water-resistant or waterproof fabric. For those who go hiking or camping frequently, you should purchase a water-resistant money bag, even if your dry camping bags can keep you dry from the rain.
A leather money belt is generally not a good idea if you walk or run frequently.
4. RFID-Blocking
With Radio Frequency Identification (RFID), information on tags affixed to an item, such as a credit card, may be read and captured using radio waves.
You must be concerned about that sort of thing nowadays. To be clear, I’ve never experienced a problem with electronic thieves, but that doesn’t mean it never happens.
There is undoubtedly an increase in electronic theft, especially in public settings. You must determine whether you require an RFID-blocking travel belt.
5. Materials
Although the running belts on this list are built with a Spandex blend, most money belts are built with durable nylon. Nylon money belts often last longer and retain less odour over time.
However, you may wash all travel belts (other than leather) in washing machines. You can wash off sweat, grime, and any unpleasant substances.
Staying Safe While Travelling
Prospective criminals will always be waiting to steal your cash on every given backpacking trip. I don’t want to incite travel paranoia, but every traveller needs to be conscious of the dangers of travelling. It is just common sense.
Travel is inexpensive in many backpacker-friendly locations because the local economies are ruined. People are unemployed, and when they are jobless, they engage in crime. They prey on tourists who do possess the money that they lack.
No one can blame them.
We are fortunate to have the money to backpack at all. Nevertheless, it is crucial not to lose your money if you want to continue travelling for an extended period. For some backpackers like myself, losing a significant amount of money in a single incident might utterly scuttle an otherwise fantastic backpacking adventure.
An effective preventative method for securing your cash from prospective pickpockets is to wear a security belt. However, there are additional actions you may take to make sure your money stays safe.
The Best Tips For Protecting Your Money When Backpacking
- Take only the money you’ll need if you’re heading out for the evening.
- Finding oneself intoxicated, alone, and flush with money in a strange city is a prescription for catastrophe. Avoid putting yourself in such a predicament!
- In busy public areas, proceed with extra care. Major tourist destinations, bus terminals, public markets, and train stations are all extremely vulnerable to pickpocketing activities.
- When removing cash from your money belt, be cunning. If you know you will want some cash for any particular circumstance, make some preparations in advance. Avoid disclosing the location of your valuables by raising your shirt in front of a crowd.
- Keep your travel belt manageable. You have eliminated its covert nature if it makes you appear pregnant through your clothes.
- Carry lots of cash when you travel, but avoid carrying large sums of money on yourself. You should only put some of your eggs in one basket since you don’t know what can happen.
- Avoid diversions and pickpocket tactics. For instance, someone may accidentally splash ketchup or paint on you and give the impression of it being an accident. THERE WAS NO ACCIDENT! Leave there at once because they are attempting to con you.
- Don’t worry too much. The vast majority of individuals on earth are decent beings. Always be keen and attentive, but never assume that everyone is after your money—they aren’t.
FAQ about the Best Travel Money Belt
Have more inquiries? No issue! The most frequently asked questions are presented here, along with our responses. Here’s what most folks typically would like to know:
Why do I need a money belt?
Easy: to keep your cash secure and hidden. In the unusual event that you are robbed, your credit cards and cash will at least be protected because no one will suspect a hidden wallet in your belt.
How much cash can I hide in a money belt?
Money belts often accommodate a few bills for emergencies, depending on the brand. You may even hold some coins and credit cards if you choose a wider belt.
Which is the best money belt?
One of the finest bags available is the Wandrd Tech Bag. It can store anything you can think of, including money and passports.
Can you wear a money belt through security?
Yes, people usually wear their money belts through security, but only if the money belt is free of metal. Any metal will activate the detector.
If you’re going through airport security gates, you’ll probably need to remove your money belt. Although belts without metal may not trigger the gate alarms, security personnel will probably ask you to take them off so that they may be scanned or manually inspected.
Final Thoughts on the Best Money Belts for Traveling
You have concluded my travel money belt review, friends!
While there are risks associated with travel, you usually can take precautions. The best approach to safeguard your money is to get a high-quality travel belt, period.
You now have complete control over the best travel belts available. You should now know which one to select!
I hope you learned something from this and found it helpful. I also hope you have a wonderful trip on every journey and ensure safety while on the road.
A journey that is trouble- and theft-free is where a pleasant time begins and concludes. So, do yourself a favour and make it harder for thieves to steal your money in the future.
Grab a security belt, then drive with peace of mind. Check out the finest travel purses for something a little bigger so you can organise your paperwork. There is even a Pacsafe model to keep you safe from grab-and-flee situations.