Carrying cash while traveling is a must, with ATMs not always working and traveler's checks becoming harder and harder to cash. With new and stronger security regulations, passengers need to know how to safeguard their money while flying. Understand the issues and weigh the pros and cons of some popular methods to decide what's the best way to carry cash on your next flight.
Often made of webbing or other low-cost material, money belts have a zippered pocket that runs the length of the belt, allowing folded bills to be placed end to end and zipped shut. These are relatively inexpensive cash-carrying options, especially for carrying large amounts of cash (up to $2,000 with some models). However, the belts can be bulky and unsightly and often need to be removed for security screenings (which exposes the "secret" zippered compartment). Look for belts that have plastic buckles and zippers that will not alert the metal detectors while going through security. Folding bills so that the smallest bills lie closest to the front of the zipper will allow you to remove just what you need without exposing $50 or $100 bills to the world.
Hidden money belts or pouches strap around your waist or leg, or attach to the belt with a loop, and are low-profile and discreet. Special travel socks with a zippered pocket are another interesting, well-concealed option, though they carry a limited amount of cash, much less than belts or pouches. When choosing these, remember to look for quality materials, and keep valuables in a plastic pouch, to protect against perspiration and other moisture.
Featuring a soft pouch with one or more zippered compartments, the money pouch can be worn around the neck and dropped under a shirt, or worn around the waist and tucked into pants or a skirt. The pouches hold a great deal of money as well as important travel documents. They are also fairly obvious and bulky, and are difficult to access when cash is needed. Keep travel documents in a plastic pouch to protect against moisture, and don't overfill the pouch, to prevent visible bulk under your garments.
Whatever option you choose, avoid bags or belts with metal fasteners, because you may be required to remove them for security screenings. Zippered pockets are the best; hook and loop closures are not recommended.
Keep small amounts of cash separate from your wallet and on your person, at all times. In the unlikely event that you will lose your wallet or luggage, you will have some emergency money. If traveling overseas, know the limit of currency that you can bring into the country without filling out a declaration form, to avoid complications with immigration agents.
