The Safest Ways to Carry Money When Traveling

Carrying wads of cash while traveling is rarely a good idea. Not only does it set you up for being pickpocketed, but far fewer businesses actually want to deal in cash during the COVID-era.

Still, if you're visiting a destination where credit cards are not readily accepted, or you simply feel more comfortable having some cash with you at all times, then it's best to be smart about how you carry it around.

Here are some of the travel products designed to protect your money from being stolen, as well as a few tips from travel experts about how best to navigate this travel safety issue when globetrotting.

Fanny Packs

Fanny packs went out of style years ago and were even mocked as a fashion faux pas. But it seems the tide has turned for this once-joked-about fashion accessory, says Molly Fergus, general manager of TripSavvy.

"Fanny packs are having a bit of a resurgence, and they're one of the most secure ways to carry cash on you without worrying about someone swiping into your back pocket or reaching into your purse," says Fergus.

For those who want to splurge on a slightly more upscale fanny pack, Fergus recommends checking out the Longchamp Le Foulonné Leather Belt Bag ($195). The sleek leather pack can easily double as a small handbag for an evening out—but also contains a zippered compartment designed to keep your cash secure.

"There's also plenty of space for your phone, wallet, and other essentials," says Fergus.

Flipbelts

Flipbelts ($34) are a fun option for active travelers, particularly those who like to go out for a run while traveling.

"The design is ingenious for hiking, biking, and other active sports," explains Fergus, who owns five of these belts, in different colors. "A neoprene tube rests around your waist, while several slits in the fabric provide openings. Fill the tube with cash, your phone, credit cards, and other essentials, then flip the tube over so the openings are against your body. The snug fit means everything is nice and secure but still easily accessible."

Travel Scarf

Created specifically to help you travel safer—while looking fabulous in the process—the stylish travel scarves from Speakeasy come in a variety of colors and patterns and allow for stashing all your must-haves in a secret pocket.

Each scarf features a double-stitched pocket made to carry cash, a passport, phone (including the iPhone 13), sunglasses, lip balm, credit cards, and more. To bump up the security another notch, there's also a hidden, self-locking zipper. The scarves range in price from about $39 to $59.

Money Belt

Investing in a slim money belt that can be worn around your waist, inside of your shirt or pants, is another tried and true way to carry money safely when traveling, says Elizabeth Avery, founder of Solo Trekker 4 U.

"These can be worn just underneath the waistband of your shirt or slacks without being visible, making it possible to retrieve cash or credit cards in shops and restaurants without alerting pickpockets," says Avery, who also suggests only wearing money belts on the front of your body, and not the small of your back—a location that would give determined muggers easier access.

There are plenty of money belt options on the market, including a budget-friendly version at Walmart for $14.99 that Avery recommends because it includes RFID blocking to protect your credit card data from being stolen.

Bra Wallet

Yet another option for conveniently hiding money while traveling, bra wallets are a go-to product for Shelley Marmor, founder of Travel Mexico Solo. "It's the best way for women to keep some cash hidden on their person," says Marmor. "It's basically a small wallet that fits a credit card and a few bills, just enough for emergencies."

The wallet snaps onto the front or side of your bra and can be worn under a loose shirt, adds Marmor of the wallets, which are available on Amazon for about $14. REI also sells bra pouches for about $14.95.

"They're similar to a money belt, but since these are less common, they're even easier to conceal," adds Marmor.

SideKick Crossbody

If you're going to use a visible, external bag, it should be one that can be worn crossbody, on the front of your body, where you can see it all times.

The SideKick Crossbody ($39) is one such option. Made with ultra-durable, water-resistant polyester and synthetic leather details, the bag is designed with dual front and back padding to ensure protection for all of your belongings. It also helpfully includes an inside zippered pocket for valuables. The bag was designed to be used while traveling, hiking, camping, attending festivals, and more.

Safety Tips

Even with all of the helpful products mentioned, it's still important to use common sense when you're carrying cash in a new or unfamiliar environment. Here are some of the ways to protect yourself from pickpockets and petty thefts when on a vacation of any type.

Skip the tote bag

Tote bags rarely have zipper closures, making them an easy target for thieves, says Fergus. "When I was a student in Barcelona, I walked around with a tote bag that had no zipper or secure closings," says Fergus. "Predictably, on the Metro one afternoon, a pickpocket reached into my bag and took my entire wallet. I've never made that mistake again, and I now only use zippered tote bags when I'm out in public."

Switch to cross-body bags

If you're carrying a small day bag, opt for a cross-body style that rests on the front of your body. These types of bags make it harder for someone to steal from you because the bag is right in front of you, says Fergus.

Avoid backpacks

Although backpacks are often the most comfortable to carry, especially when traveling, they're also among the easiest for pickpockets to access without you noticing. "If you must carry a backpack, carry it on your lap or in front of you when in crowded spaces, like public transport or busy museums," explains Fergus. For an easily convertible bag, Fergus recommends M. Gemi's cleverly designed The Laura bag, ($298) which has double straps that allow it to be used as either a sleek backpack or a shoulder bag, depending on where you are and what's most convenient.

Don't carry all of your cash

When you're traveling, there's no need to carry all of your cash with you at all times. (This should really go without saying, but just in case). "Plan to stash some of the money in your hotel safe and only walk around with what you need," says Fergus. As a side note, and bonus tip: When you're out sightseeing, take one credit card with you and keep another in the hotel room, so if anything goes missing, you're not waiting around for the bank to overnight a new card.

Split up your cash when carrying it around

If you're carrying a significant amount of money around with you, divide it up, suggests Fergus. "I'll sometimes put what I need for the day in my wallet and the rest in a separate section of my purse. That way, if my wallet is stolen, I have some reserves," Fergus explains. "Similarly, if you're at the airport or a train station, consider putting some cash in your suitcase and some in your purse—if your purse is stolen, you still have extra in your luggage."