Tech & Gear Accessories The 10 Best Travel Money Belts of 2023 By Jessica Macdonald Jessica Macdonald Facebook LinkedIn King's College London Jessica Macdonald lives in South Africa's Eastern Cape province and has been TripSavvy's Africa Expert since 2016. She also covers travel products and has written about everything from camping knives to climbing chalk. TripSavvy's editorial guidelines Updated on 02/06/23 Share Pin Email We independently research, test, review, and recommend the best products—learn more about our process. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission. Traveling is one of life’s most rewarding experiences, but carrying valuables such as cash and passports can be stressful. Crowded tourist spots are inevitably prone to pickpockets, and using a conventional wallet or purse makes you a target. A money belt is, therefore, an essential travel accessory, and these days they’re less intrusive, more stylish, and more comfortable than ever. Choices vary from fashion-forward fanny packs for wearing on top of your clothes to slim-line belts that are undetectable when worn beneath them. In our selection of the best travel money belts on the market, look for RFID protection, clever compartments, moisture-wicking backing, and durable, double-stitched materials. The Rundown Best Overall: Venture 4th Travel Money Belt at Amazon Jump to Review Best Overall, Runner-Up: Travel Flame Travel Money Belt at Amazon Jump to Review Best Budget: Molarun Travel Money Belt at Amazon Jump to Review Best Compact: ANJ Money belt at Amazon Jump to Review Best Comfort: EAGLE CREEK Money Belt at Amazon Jump to Review Best Ladies’ Style: CXWMZY Fanny Pack at Amazon Jump to Review Best Men's Style: Yoder Leather Company Hidden Money Pocket Travel Leather Belt at Amazon Jump to Review Best Waterproof: Crenova Waterproof Fanny Pack Set at Amazon Jump to Review Best Active: FlipBelt Classic Running Belt at Amazon Jump to Review Best Alternative: Zero Grid Travel Neck Wallet with RFID Blocking at Amazon Jump to Review Table of contents Expand Our Picks What to Look For FAQ Why Trust TripSavvy Best Overall Venture 4th Travel Money Belt Amazon View On Amazon View On Venture4th.co What We Like Low-profile design Separate, zippered compartments RFID-blocking lining What We Don't Like More expensive than some options on this list Some reviews say the strap is too thin If you’re looking for a traditional-style money belt with a mid-range price tag and thousands of positive user reviews, this belt from Venture 4th fits the bill nicely. It features a flexible, slim-line profile that lets you wear it discreetly beneath your clothes. A moisture-wicking, breathable mesh backing prevents sweat build-up, even in warm weather. The exterior features water-resistant ripstop nylon with durable double-stitched seams. Use the zippered mesh compartments to organize your valuables. The ideally sized pockets carry cash, credit cards, tickets, and a passport. Although adding your phone may make the belt bulky, most smartphone models should fit. The belt features an RFID-blocking lining to protect your data and an adjustable, elasticated belt that fits waists up to 56 inches. It comes in ten versatile colors, from black to turquoise. Price at time of publication: $22 Dimensions: 11 x 5.5 inches | Materials: 210D ripstop nylon | RFID-Blocking: Yes Best Overall, Runner-Up Travel Flame Travel Money Belt Amazon View On Amazon What We Like Clever compartment layout Carabiner key clip Lifetime guarantee What we don't like Not fully waterproof Limited color choices The Travel Flame money belt is another excellent choice designed along similar lines. Its slim profile contours to individual body shapes for maximum comfort, with many reviewers praising that it doesn’t shift or pinch even when sitting for long periods (on a plane, for example). Made of water-resistant ripstop nylon, it has a breathable mesh back and an adjustable, elasticated strap for waists up to 56 inches. Built-in RFID-blocking protection is another major perk. There are three separate compartments, one with internal pockets to aid the easy organization of your credit and loyalty cards. You should be able to fit your smartphone and several passports as well. The belt features durable YKK zippers and a carabiner clip for your keys or USB. It comes in four neutral colors: black, beige, brown, and gray. A lifetime guarantee protects your purchase. Price at time of publication: $18 Dimensions: 11.3 x 5.5 inches | Materials: Ripstop nylon | RFID-Blocking: Yes Best Budget Molarun Travel Money Belt Amazon View On Amazon What We Like Concealed rear compartment Built-in RFID protection Breathable mesh backing What We Don't Like The strap buckle could be sturdier Not suitable for plus sizes Coming in at just over $10, it’s difficult to beat the Molarun travel money belt on price. And with plenty of positive user reviews, it’s a reliable choice for those who want a simple but effective product for their next vacation. Made of water-resistant ripstop nylon with double-stitched seams and good-quality zippers, it features breathable mesh backing, so you can wear it comfortably against your skin without sweating. There are two spacious zippered compartments on the front, the larger with two internal mesh compartments. On the back, there’s a concealed compartment for your most precious belongings. According to reviewers, it fits passports and smartphones, although not necessarily together (depending on your smartphone model). The belt has built-in RFID protection and an elasticated strap suitable for waists up to 46 inches. Some find the buckle a little flimsy. Price at time of publication: $12 Dimensions: 9 x 6 inches | Materials: 210D ripstop nylon | RFID-Blocking: Yes The 10 Best Passport Holders of 2023 Best Compact ANJ Outdoors Super Slim Water Resistant Money Belt Amazon View On Amazon View On Walmart What We Like Just 0.04 inches thick Water-resistant lining Hole for headphones cable What We Don't Like No RFID protection Fits waists up to 42 inches only If lightness and an undetectable under-the-clothes profile are your top priorities, look no further than this super-slim money belt from ANJ Outdoors. At 0.04 inches in thickness and weighing in at just 2 ounces, the soft lycra belt is unbelievably thin—so much so that it’s easy to forget you’re wearing it. One reviewer talks about wearing it under her swimsuit; another loves it because it gives her waist a cinched look rather than adding bulk like most belts. Despite its slimness, the belt features a roomy 7.5 by 4.5-inch pocket with two compartments for stashing everything from money to phones and passports. It even has a hole for your headphones, doubling as a handy workout belt. A water-resistant lining prevents sweat from seeping through and damaging the contents, while reflective strips add an extra safety element. The adjustable strap fits waists from 24 to 42 inches. Price at time of publication: $11 Dimensions: 7.5 x 4.5 inch pocket | Materials: Polyester, spandex | RFID-Blocking: No Best Comfort EAGLE CREEK Money Belt Amazon View On Amazon View On Eaglecreek.com View On REI What We Like Soft and breathable natural silk Easily washable Lifetime warranty What We Don't Like No RFID protection Pricier than most alternatives For those with a bigger budget, Eagle Creek’s silk undercover money belt is well worth the extra cost. Made of soft, breathable natural silk, it feels incredible against the skin—so much so that many reviewers say they regularly sleep with theirs on. No crinkling, rubbing, or itching—and a moisture-resistant satin lining for keeping sweat to a minimum, even in 100 percent humidity. If it does need it, the belt is easy to wash and hang dry. It features two zippered pockets that are big enough for cash, credit cards, passports, and most smartphones. The soft elastic waistband is easily adjustable and stores neatly in a dedicated slip pocket on the back of the belt when not in use, making it also useful as an in-purse organizer. Available in smart black or dusky rose, the money belt is covered by Eagle Creek’s No Matter What lifetime guarantee. Price at time of publication: $31 Dimensions: 11.5 x 5.5 inches | Materials: Silk | RFID-Blocking: No The 13 Best Fanny Packs of 2023 Best Ladies’ Style CXWMZY Fanny Pack View On Amazon What We Like Choice of on-trend colors and patterns Oversized gold zippers Extra packing space What We Don't Like Not suitable for wearing underneath clothes Heavier than most options on this list The CXWMZY fanny pack comes in a choice of colors and floral patterns that will likely make it popular with fashion-forward wearers. The chunky zippers are gold-colored for added style points. Unlike most of the other money belts on this list, this one goes on top of your clothes, with a bulkier profile and two extra-large zippered compartments for cosmetics, sunglasses, car keys, and cash. There’s an additional concealed compartment on the back of the belt for your valuables, and the elasticated waist belt adjusts to fit all waist sizes from 24 to 55 inches. The belt is made from 100 percent polyester with reinforced stitching along the seams, guaranteeing a quality product that’s as reliable as it is attractive. The only downside (for some) is that it’s a heavier option weighing in at 8.5 ounces. Price at time of publication: $24 Dimensions: 9.84 x 6.1 inches | Materials: 75D polyester | RFID-Blocking: No Best Men's Style Yoder Leather Company Hidden Money Pocket Travel Leather Belt Amazon View On Amazon View On Yoderleather.com What We Like Looks like a regular belt for ultimate concealment Fits up to 24 bills Genuine English bridle leather What We Don't Like Not suitable for larger items One of the most expensive choices on this list This alternative option from the Yoder Leather Company is ideal for men who'd rather not accessorize with a traditional money belt or fanny pack. Made in the USA from genuine English bridle leather, the belt looks like a regular belt whose only purpose is to keep your pants in place—and yet, the inside conceals a 25-inch zippered pocket capable of holding up to 24 bills folded lengthwise. You could also store passport copies and other necessary paperwork inside, although there's no space for fitting larger documents or valuables. Nevertheless, if a simple money belt is what you're after, this one is undoubtedly a good-looking choice. It measures 1.5 inches wide and 3/16 inches thick, is finished with high-grade leather polish and features a large, interchangeable brass or polished steel buckle. It's available in black or brown leather. Price at time of publication: $65 Dimensions: 34-66 x 1.5 inches | Materials: Leather | RFID-Blocking: No The 11 Best Wallets for Men of 2023 Best Waterproof Crenova Waterproof Fanny Pack Set Amazon View On Amazon What We Like Three-piece set Fully waterproof up to 32 feet Can be worn several ways What We Don't Like No inner compartments No RFID protection If you’re planning a vacation on the water, you may prefer a fully waterproof money belt. These fanny packs from Crenova are IPX8-certified for submersion in up to 32 feet of water for as long as an hour, guaranteeing protection from the elements for your cash, ID, phone, and more. Your purchase includes a phone pouch and two separate packs: one fully opaque for added secrecy and another transparent and touchscreen-friendly. All three feature a triple seal and heavy-duty Velcro flap. Before using them for the first time, the manufacturer recommends performing a submersion test by inserting a dry piece of tissue and then placing the pack in the sink for at least an hour. You’re good to go if the tissue’s still dry after that time. The phone pouch comes with a lanyard, while the fanny pack features adjustable webbing belts and can be worn around the waist or over the shoulder. Price at time of publication: $16 Dimensions: 8.66 x 5.91 inches | Materials: PVC | RFID-Blocking: No Best Active FlipBelt Classic Running Belt 4.8 FlipBelt View On Amazon View On Chainreactioncycles.com View On Fleetfeet.com What We Like Designed to stay in place while running Buckle-free, non-chafe design Machine washable What We Don't Like Pockets are not zippered Relatively expensive Heading off on a hiking trip, or like to keep fit on vacation? The FlipBelt Classic is an innovative money belt with a seamless, tubular design that sits flat on your hips and doesn’t ride up, even during vigorous exercise. With no buckles to pinch and soft-touch, moisture-wicking micropoly and Lycra fabric, it can be worn comfortably over or under your clothes and stretches to fit everything from credit cards to smartphones in multiple pockets. The openings in the belt are closed by turning them inward to your body. (If you want added security, consider paying extra for the zippered version of the FlipBelt.) There’s an internal key hook for keeping keys in place, and if the belt gets a little sweaty, it’s entirely machine-washable. Choose yours in sizes XXS to XXL, and opt for one of a wide range of colors, including black, hot pink, and reflective yellow. Price at time of publication: $39 Dimensions: 24-40 (unstretched) x 4 inches | Materials: 92 percent polyester, 8 percent Lycra | RFID-Blocking: No The 10 Best Packing Cubes of 2023, Tested and Reviewed Best Alternative Zero Grid Travel Neck Wallet Amazon View On Amazon View On Walmart View On Zerogrid.com What We Like Two ways to wear it Multiple zippered pockets Includes ReturnMe recovery tags What We Don't Like The neck strap is not removable Too small for some smartphones This well-priced option from Zero Grid includes loops for attaching it to your belt. However, it also comes with a soft, adjustable neck strap, giving you a choice of ways to wear it. Made from water-resistant ripstop nylon, it has a moisture-wicking backing and is slim enough to wear concealed against your skin. Measuring 7.5 by 5.7 inches, it’s large enough for four passports, six credit cards, and most small to medium-sized smartphones. Divide your valuables among the three zippered front pockets and rear back pouch for ultimate organization. High-quality YKK zippers and built-in RFID protection add to the wallet’s overall value, as do two included recovery tags from the world’s largest lost-and-found company, ReturnMe. Attach these to your belongings to increase the chance of them finding their way back to you if you lose them. Wallet colors range from black to desert sand. Price at time of publication: $19 Dimensions: 7.5 x 5.7 inches | Materials: Ripstop nylon | RFID-Blocking: No What to Look for in a Travel Money Belt Features Travel money belts come in several different shapes and styles, and choosing the right one depends on your required features. Some come with built-in RFID protection, while others include RFID-blocking sleeves—useful if you use them to carry sensitive data. If you want to transport bills only, a conventional belt with a concealed pocket may be sufficient, but if you want to pack your smartphone, passport, and other bulkier items, you’ll need a multi-compartment money belt or fanny pack. Other features to consider are different fastening styles and alternative ways to wear your money belt. Materials The most popular material for a travel money belt is ripstop nylon—it’s lightweight, durable, and water-resistant, all qualities that make the belt comfortable to wear and up to the task of keeping your valuables safe. To prevent sweat buildup, a backing made of moisture-wicking mesh or natural silk is desirable if you wear the belt against your skin. Belts designed as style accessories often swap out ripstop nylon for more fashionable leather or polyester, while those who require a fully waterproof belt should look for one made of PVC or another soft plastic and fitted with leak-proof seals. Price Travel money belts vary considerably in price, depending on factors ranging from materials and features to brand reputation. For example, a premium-grade leather or natural silk belt will inevitably cost more than one made from nylon or PVC. The travel money belts included on this list cost anywhere from under $10 to over $60; however, you should be able to find a quality, long-lasting belt to suit most travel purposes for around $20. Frequently Asked Questions How should I clean and care for my money belt? Depending on materials and construction, the best cleaning method will vary from belt to belt. You should always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines. Some are machine-washable, while others should be wiped clean or washed by hand and hung up to dry. Before each use, you should check that the zippers and buckles are operating smoothly (if relevant) and that there is no wear and tear on the strap that could cause it to break unexpectedly. Are money belts safe from pickpockets? Although it’s impossible to guarantee complete protection from thieves, money belts significantly reduce your chance of becoming a target when appropriately used. For ultimate safety, choose a money belt with a slim profile that can be concealed beneath your clothes. Be aware of your surroundings when removing valuables from your money belt, too, since doing so in public could alert thieves to the fact that you’re wearing one and let them know where it is. Can I wear a money belt through airport security? Depending on your money belt’s material and whether it has zippers, it may or may not set off the alarms on the airport security scanner. Nevertheless, most airports require you to remove all belts before going through security, including money belts. If you’re concerned about removing yours at the checkpoint, place it safely inside your carry-on luggage before you get there, and put it on in private afterward. What is an RFID money belt? An RFID money belt protects its contents from the possibility of thieves scanning the RFID (radio frequency identification) chip on your passport and/or credit cards and therefore stealing your sensitive data. RFID protection can be built-in by using fabrics capable of blocking RFID scanners, or it can come in the form of separate RFID-blocking sleeves. If your belt includes the latter, you must place your cards and passport inside the sleeves before putting them in the belt. Why Trust TripSavvy Jessica Macdonald is an experienced traveler who has used money belts to keep her valuables safe on her adventures around South America, Africa, and Europe. For this article, she compiled a list of more than 20 of the most popular products on the market, comparing price, features, and user feedback to come up with the category winners listed above. Preference was given to products with unique selling points and several hundred online reviews. 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