Best Money Belts for Travel in 2026

Do You Really Need a Money Belt?

Money belts are worthwhile for travel in countries with high pickpocket rates — major tourist cities in Europe, Latin America, and Southeast Asia. If you're going to Disney World in Florida, you probably don't need one. If you're taking a tram through Barcelona's La Rambla or riding the metro in Rome, a money belt can protect you from professional pickpockets who target tourists.

How Money Belts Work

A money belt is a flat pouch worn under your shirt, against your skin, at your waist. It holds your passport, credit cards, and emergency cash, completely hidden from view. You only access it in private — at your hotel, in a bathroom, or somewhere private — not in public. The idea is to keep your decoy wallet in your pocket with a small amount of cash for day-to-day spending, while your real documents and bulk cash stay hidden.

Best Overall: Eagle Creek RFID Blocker Money Belt DLX

The Eagle Creek RFID Blocker Money Belt DLX (check price on Amazon) is one of the best-designed money belts available. Made from moisture-wicking, breathable fabric, it's comfortable to wear all day without chafing. RFID-blocking fabric in the card pockets prevents wireless scanning of your credit card chips. The two zippered pockets hold a passport, credit cards, cash, and phone. The adjustable waistband fits most body types, and the breathable mesh back panel prevents sweating.

Best Budget: Lewis N. Clark RFID Blocking Money Belt

The Lewis N. Clark RFID Blocking Money Belt (check price on Amazon) is an affordable, functional money belt with RFID-blocking lining. The 50-inch elastic strap adjusts for a comfortable fit, and the zippered main pocket holds a passport and folded cash. Multiple organizational slots keep cards separated. At under $15, it's the best budget money belt option.

Best Hidden Pocket: Eagle Creek Undercover Hidden Pocket

The Eagle Creek Undercover (check price on Amazon) is a slim, flat pouch that hangs under your shirt on an adjustable neck cord. Less bulky than a waist belt, it works well for travelers who find waist belts uncomfortable. Holds a passport and folded bills, and lies completely flat under most shirts.

What to Keep in a Money Belt

• Passport (or color copy)
• Emergency credit card
• Backup cash (local currency + US dollars)
• Travel insurance card
• Emergency contact info

Don't put your daily-use wallet in the money belt. Keep a separate decoy wallet in your pocket with a small amount of cash — enough for a day's spending.

RFID Protection: Is It Necessary?

RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) skimming — where thieves use handheld readers to steal credit card data wirelessly — is a real but overhyped threat. Most modern chip cards have some RFID protection already. For peace of mind, RFID-blocking money belts add an extra layer of protection and are worth having given the low cost.