Money Belts For A Hassle Free Travel

Yeah, we know what you’re thinking.

A review on travel money belts do not sound like a fun way to spend your browsing time. But if you will be travelling anytime soon or you’re a frequent traveller, you should definitely read ahead.

Travelling can be fun and filled with memorable experiences. But the risks that come with vacationing in an unfamiliar land can be a mood spoiler. If you are not aware, theft is a common risk associated with travelling. 

For those who have been a victim of theft, you will agree that it is no fun at all. It becomes even worse when your valuable items are stolen in a strange land.

So how do you ensure your things are safe while you’re having a good time?

Well, this article is going to introduce you to travel money belts and why you should never travel without them.

What is a money belt?

Before looking at the best money belts in the market, let’s first learn the definition of these travel wallets.

A money or bag belts are just small pouches with straps that can be fastened around your waist. Totally sounds like a fanny pack right?

Well, the only similarity between bag belts and the fanny pack is that they are both pouches carried at the waist.

Why should you get a money belt?

With the above definition, isn’t it better to just buy a fanny pack and be done with it?

Er… Not really!

Even though their basic functions are the same, you will be better off spending your money on bag belts rather than a fanny pack for the following reasons.

Security

There are travel money belts with features that provide the type of additional security that a fanny pack will never give you.

Fabric

The old fanny pack models are notorious for chaffing at the skin, making it uncomfortable to wear. In contrast, travel money belts are made with fabrics such as microfiber, that are gentle on the skin. 

Unlike the bulky size of traditional fanny packs, travel money belts can be thin and light; depending on your choice. Of course, if you still prefer the bulkiness, there are large money belts that suit your taste.

The 5 best money belts

We went on a major research to find out the best money belts you should definitely consider getting. Here are the results we got.

Photo by awebtoknow

There is a reason why most of the travellers go for this money belt. It comes with enough features that readily solve the problem of security on your trip.

For one, the money belt has an aluminium zipper that prevents it from being detected by metal detectors.

Not only that, the RFID protection is on a genius level. This money belt has seven sleeves protected by RFID. Also, the pouch has three layers secured by additional RFID technology.

On the downside, it is not waterproof. Besides, it can be mistaken for a fanny pack as the designs are similar.

Get this from Amazon for $20.79.

Weight: 4.3oz

Dimensions: 10.7 x 0.1 x 5.3 inches

Price: $20.79

RFID: Yes

Overall score: 4.7/5

Photo by adventure16

With the Eagle Creek Undercover money belt on, you would even forget that you are wearing a money belt. This is because it is extremely thin and lightweight.

But don’t let the size fool you.

This money belt has a spacious room that can conveniently fit credit cards, cash, and four passports at the same time while still remaining flat. The slimness makes it easy to keep it hidden all the time. It’s very comfortable even while sleeping.

However, for all of its great features, we have to mention that this travel wallet will not suit people who have large waists. Also, its zipper and clasp could break down easily with heavy use.

Buy the Eagle Creek Undercover Moneybelt from Amazon for $ 16.95.

Weight: 1oz

Dimensions: 9 x 4.5 inches

RFID: No

Overall score: 4.0/5

Photo by pinimg

We admit that most money belts can be bland and basic; two features that can make it an eyesore for fashionistas. So what do you do?

Get a stylish money belt that goes with your trendy look and that’s where Stashbandz Unisex Travel money belts come in. Apart from its trendy style, this money belt has enough room to store your phone, money, cards, and keys.

Even though its original use was as a running belt, it still makes a great travelling companion. But note, if you are thinking of snapping this up, the zipper does not look sturdy.

Buy Stashbandz Unisex Travel Moneybelts from Amazon for $22.99.

Weight: 3.04oz

Dimensions: 6 x 8 x 7 inches

RFID: No

Retailer: Amazon

Overall score: 4.8/5

Photo by shopify

For frequent travellers, this money belt by Tarriss should definitely be on your list of must-haves. It is crafted with microfiber materials that get rids of dampness and moisture. In other words, the material is breathable.

Also, the RFID technology keeps your credit cards and ID safe from high-tech thieves. If you are still confused about the authenticity, you needn’t. This is because the US Government has tested the RFID blocking and certified it’s okay.

For just an amount that will barely make a ding in your pocket, you get access to a bag that comes with a lifetime warranty.

However, if you are travelling to a place where the weather is unreliable, you might want to look for another option. As this money belt is not water-resistant. In addition, there is a noticeable loss of tension in the elastic after use.

Buy Tarriss RFID Blocking Money Belts for $14.97.

Weight: 1.76oz

Dimensions: 11 x 0.1 x 5 inches

RFID: Yes

Overall score: 4.5/5

If you have plans for a perfect holiday we all know that the weather has a mind of its own. To keep you one step ahead, you should definitely consider this travel money belt from Blue Sky Basics.

The major selling point of this beauty is obviously its waterproof feature.

Note that this waterproof feature is vastly different from the water-resistant feature touted by some money belt manufacturers. Water-resistant money belts resist water to a certain degree after which the feature fails completely. On the other hand, waterproof travel money belts like this one do not allow water penetrate, no matter how worse the condition is.

So this means, you can wear your money belt while diving in the Maldives or even when it’s raining.

Besides, there is no reason to bring out your phone in sketchy areas. Simply operate your smartphone even while it is in the pouch.

The best thing about this money belt is that it comes with a lifetime warranty.

However, if you love travelling light, you may hate this money belt. It is much too big and also bulky. There is virtually no way to keep it hidden. Also, it is almost difficult to find a size that has appropriate straps. The straps are either too short for large waists or much too long for those with small waists.

Buy Blue Sky Basics Waterproof Pouch with Waist Strap Money Belt for $9.97.

Weight: 7.7oz

Dimensions: 11.5 x 8.6 x 1.1 inches

RFID: No

Overall score: 4.0/5

What to look for in a money belt ?

We believe we’ve got you sold onto the idea of getting a travel money belt. But what are the things to consider when purchasing one? Here are the most important factors.

Size

Knowing what you plan to carry in the travel wallets will determine what size you should look for. For instance, if you plan on only carrying your ID, credit cards and some extra cash, small money belts will serve you better.

But if you are going to carry travel documents, phone and passport, in addition to cash and credit cards, getting a large money belt is the best option. Apart from its size, large money belts also have compartments that can help you secure your stuff.

Material

This is another important travel wallet’s feature you should not skimp out on. We assume you will be carrying your money belt for most of the day, so it’s advisable that your money belt shouldn’t feel like a burden.

Check out the material used; is it the type that will irritate or chafe your skin? Does it have anti microbial properties? Is your money belt waterproof or at least moisture wicking? Does it look noticeable under your clothes or hidden?

Answering these questions will guide you in choosing the right travel money belts.

Extra features

Most travel wallets or money belts come with bells and whistles such as hidden compartments which can be helpful in times of robbery.

Some even have RFID technology to prevent thieves from scanning your credit cards without your knowledge. You can decide if these features will be worth it before settling on a money belt choice.

Price

Of course, this is the most important indices especially for travellers on a budget. After all, it can be annoying to spend money on something you would barely be in need of. But if you do decide to get these travel wallets, you can have them from $20 and above.

Bottom line

Having a travel money belt can almost feel like you are doing too much. Besides, some of them are so bulky that they defeat the purpose of hiding your cash.

However, the additional layer of security coupled with the convenience travel wallets offer makes them a wise purchase. The best of all, they don’t cost an arm and a leg.