Traveling Interstate? Belt Laws You Need To Know

Money belts are a common accessory for travellers looking to keep their cash and valuables safe. They are small, zippered fabric pouches that fasten around the waist under trousers or skirts. While some money belts look like regular belts with a small pocket behind them, others are cloth pouches that are tucked into trousers. Money belts are useful for storing money, passports, and document copies while travelling. Although they are no longer a secret way to conceal cash, they are still a good option for keeping valuables safe. When using a money belt, it is important to keep the day's spending money in a separate, easily accessible place to avoid having to rummage through the belt in public. Additionally, it is recommended to wear the pouch in the small of the back for added comfort and discreteness.

Do I need to remove my money belt at airport security?

Money belts are designed to be worn under your clothing, keeping your valuables close to you and safe from pickpockets. However, when going through airport security, you will likely be required to remove your money belt. This is because the scanners are designed to detect items that are not standard to a person's profile. A money belt could conceal a weapon.

Some travellers suggest removing your money belt before reaching the security checkpoint and placing it in your carry-on luggage. This way, you avoid having to remove it in front of other people, reducing any potential security benefits. It also means your money belt won't be out in the open on the conveyor belt, reducing the risk of theft.

If you do choose to wear your money belt to the airport, be prepared to remove it when passing through security. You can then put it back on once you are through the other side.

It is worth noting that the way we travel and access money has changed. With ATMs and card payments widely available, large amounts of cash are not usually carried, reducing the need for money belts.

What are the pros and cons of using a money belt?

Money belts are designed to improve your security when travelling by keeping your cash, valuables, and important documents close to your body. They are typically worn under your clothing, tucked inside your trousers or skirt, and fastened around your waist.

Pros

• Money belts offer a sense of security, keeping your valuables safe and giving you peace of mind.
• They can be used to keep emergency money and cards separate from your daily spending money.
• Money belts are a handy place to store important documents that you can't afford to lose, such as your passport.
• They can be used as a second wallet and hidden in a secure place rather than being worn all the time.
• They are useful when travelling with large amounts of cash or valuables, especially in high-risk areas.

Cons

• Money belts are built for carrying large amounts of cash, which is uncommon and often unnecessary in today's digital world.
• They can be uncomfortable and sweaty to wear, especially in hot climates.
• Accessing your money from a money belt can be tricky and time-consuming, and may leave you vulnerable to thieves if done in public.
• Keeping all your valuables in one place may not be the smartest plan, as it provides a single point of failure.
• They can be constricting and hot, especially in tropical climates.
• They may not be necessary for every traveller, especially those who primarily rely on digital payment methods and don't carry large amounts of cash.

While money belts offer a sense of security, it's important to weigh the pros and cons to decide if they are the best option for your specific travel needs.

What are the best money belts for travel?

Money belts are designed to improve your security when travelling by keeping your valuables close to your body and out of sight. They are typically flat pouches that are worn under your clothes.

Best Overall:

Raytix RFID Money Belt has a slim profile with five pockets. It has a double-release button and adjustable straps that fit waists between 27-41 inches. It's comfortable and easy to wear, but the sizing is limited.

Most Versatile:

ANJ Money Belt is an ultra-thin and lightweight belt with a two-layer, single-pocket design. It's made from soft lycra material that provides a decent stretch. It's water-resistant and has a built-in headphone jack. The adjustable waist strap fits sizes 26-41 inches.

Best Large Capacity:

Lanney RFID Travel Blocking Money Belt has five storage areas, including a main compartment with two interior mesh slip pockets, a small zippered front pocket, and a breathable, open mesh-paneled sleeve at the back. The strap fits waists measuring 26-50 inches. It has three built-in RFID-blocking layers and comes with 10 single RFID-blocking cardholders.

Best for Active Travellers:

FlipBelt Classic Running Belt is made from a light and breathable plush fabric with stretchy, bounceback capabilities. It has four pockets, including a main storage compartment. It comes in seven sizes from XXS to XXL, so you'll need to know your waist size before purchasing.

Best for Organisation:

The Belt of Orion Travel Edition has multiple pockets for ultimate organisation on the go. It includes a 9-inch long, lockable main zippered area with inner compartments for a phone, passport, cards and train tickets, plus two smaller pockets. It also has a silicone-guarded hole for a headphones cord and a key clip.

Best for Comfort:

Bandi Pocketed Wrap has handy slip-in compartments and a stretchy spandex material that hugs the body. It has a soft, adjustable waistband that fits waists from 28-42 inches, with a tri-glide slider and snap buckle closure. It's also machine washable.

Easiest to Conceal:

StashBandz Unisex Running Belt has four drop-in pockets and a continuous spandex band that stealthily hides under clothing by moulding to your body's shape. It's designed to sit on the low waist, so be sure to follow the size chart for the best fit.

Best Waterproof:

Back Bay Slim Running Belt has a compact, slim design with a 9-inch wide zippered pocket that stretches to fit a passport, phone, keys and snacks. It has a waterproof lining and a water-resistant zipper. The grippy texture on the inside of the belt helps it stay in place.

Best Value:

Amazon Basics RFID Travel Waist Belt is an affordable option that protects your cards against digital theft. It has a lay-flat buckle and slim profile for easy concealment, with an adjustable waist belt.

Best Women's Style:

Eagle Creek Silk Undercover Money Belt is made from silky smooth silk material and a soft elastic waistband, so it feels luxurious on the skin. It's also lightweight and discrete, and less likely to snag on delicate clothing.

Best Men's Style:

Atitlan Leather Brown Leather Money Belt is a classic leather money belt with a sneaky 19-inch zipper for stashing cash. The buckle can be easily swapped out, and it fits waist sizes 30-48 inches.

Best Anti-Theft:

Pacsafe Coversafe X100 Waist Pack has a wire-reinforced waist strap, making it almost impossible for a thief to cut the strap and run off with your valuables. The adjustable belt fastens with a hidden side-release buckle. It fits waist sizes from 29 inches.

Other Recommended Money Belts:

• Venture 4TH Travel Money Belt: Larger capacity with plenty of pockets, but the front pouch is obviously bulky and the waist belt is uncomfortable.
• Boxli Travel Hidden Money Belt: Minimalist design that performed well in water testing, but it struggled to fit everything needed.
• Samsonite RFID Security Waist Belt: Comfortable fit with good adjustability, and performed well in water testing, but the elastic strap feels flimsy.
• Molarun Travel Money Belt: Lightweight and compact, but visible through clothing when packed full.
• Aikelida RFID Blocking Travel Wallet: Slim with five pockets, but the buckle feels flimsy.
• Samsonite RFID Waist Belt: Basic design that's lightweight and has RFID-blocking technology, but it may not be discreet enough.
• MoKo Secure Travel Money Belt: Simple and cheap, with RFID-blocking, breathable fabric, water resistance and adjustability.
• Active Roots Security Belt: Designed to look like a regular belt with a simple inner pocket.
• Peak Gear RFID Money Belt: Premium quality with RFID-blocking, waterproof material, theft insurance and ReturnMe decals.

Considerations when choosing a money belt:

• Size: Make sure the money belt fits your waist and has enough capacity for your items. The more you stash inside, the bulkier it will be and the more visible it may become under your clothes.
• Materials: Consider the activities you'll be doing and choose a material that suits. For example, if you'll be getting wet, opt for waterproof material. If you're going to be active, choose a breathable fabric.
• Security features: Look for RFID-blocking technology to protect against credit card identity theft. Other features include hidden pockets, ripstop material, locking zippers and theft insurance.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Money belts are one of the safest places to keep your valuables, especially in destinations known for pickpocketing. However, a money belt that is too obvious or makes you look conspicuous when accessing items may call attention to you as a tourist.

You can usually treat money belts like a minimalist hip pack, storing valuables and necessities such as keys, cards, earbuds and your phone. If you want to carry your passport or phone, make sure the belt is big enough.

How do I access my money belt without compromising its security?

Money belts are designed to be difficult to access, which is both their biggest advantage and disadvantage. While this makes it hard for thieves to get into, it also means that accessing your money can be time-consuming and fiddly.

• Only keep in your money belt what you won't need to access regularly. This could include emergency cash, important documents, and spare cards.
• Carry a small amount of cash in your pocket for daily expenses, so you don't have to reach for your money belt every time you need to pay for something.
• Wear the money belt over your stomach for easier access, but be aware that this may be less secure.
• If you need to access your money belt in public, try to be discreet and always remember to tuck it back in afterward.
• Consider using a neck pouch or a hidden pocket that loops onto your belt, as these may be easier to access than a traditional money belt.
• Choose a money belt with convenient pockets or compartments, so you can quickly find what you need without having to rummage through your belongings.
• If you're staying in a hostel or overnight train, consider wearing your valuables to bed or storing them in a locker.
• Keep your money belt contents dry and sweat-free by using a plastic bag or sheath inside the belt.

Remember that while a money belt can be a great way to keep your valuables safe, it's also important to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings when accessing it in public.

What are the alternatives to a money belt?

Money belts are designed to be worn under clothing, close to the skin, to keep valuables safe while travelling. However, they can be uncomfortable and inconvenient to access, and are arguably unnecessary given the prevalence of ATMs, card and mobile payment options, and smartphone connectivity.

• International debit card: Getting an international debit card that offers the mid-market exchange rate means you can pay by card and withdraw cash as you go, without having to carry large amounts of cash.
• Zippered pockets: Opt for trousers or scarves with zippered or velcro pockets, or purchase specially designed travel trousers or accessories from companies like Clothing Arts.
• Fanny pack: A practical alternative for keeping valuables close by, although it won't be as secure as a money belt and you'll need to keep an eye on your possessions.
• Neck wallet: Worn around the neck, usually under clothing, neck wallets are big enough to hold multiple passports, money, cards, a room key, and even a phone. They are often made from RFID-blocking materials to protect against RFID skimming. However, they can be bulky and obvious if overpacked.
• Arm wallet: Essentially a sweatband with a built-in pocket, arm wallets are comfortable and stylish but not big enough for larger items like phones or passports.
• Leg wallet: Leg wallets are discreet and available in various sizes, but they require loose-fitting trousers to remain hidden and can be hard to access without drawing attention.
• Bra stash: A small pocket that attaches to a bra, these are well hidden and versatile but not designed for quick access.
• Anti-theft wallet: These replace your regular wallet and feature RFID-blocking materials and anchor attachment points for chains or straps. They are small and easy to spot, however.
• Lightweight shoulder bag: Offering more room and accessibility than a money belt, these small messenger bags can be worn under a jumper or coat to remain hidden, or on the outside of clothing. Some feature anti-theft technology like lockable zips and slash-proof materials.
• Decoy wallet: Carry a small amount of cash in a cheap decoy wallet to hand over in case of robbery, while keeping the rest of your valuables secure and hidden.

Frequently asked questions