Keep your money, tickets and other valuables safe from pickpockets when traveling by wearing a money belt or security pouch, a travel accessory with a secret compartment. Keeping cash hidden helps you avoid looking like a rich tourist, which according to travel safety expert detective Kevin Coffey, can tempt people in poor countries to even commit murder. All types of travelers use money belts or pouches---students, business travelers, tourists---and there are many styles and price ranges to choose from.
Money belts look like regular belts but have a hidden compartment on the inside for carrying currency. You can buy a simple nylon web one made by Eagle Creek for about $14 from online retailers such as Outdoor World Sporting Goods, or a luxurious $69 bison leather belt from Orvis. Travelsmith sells a men's airport-friendly belt with a buckle that won't set off security alarms for $24.50. Women may prefer security neck pouches or small pocket belts that lie flat against the body underneath clothes. Campmor camping store sells a cotton-polyester money belt and passport pouch to wear under your shirt, for around $5. Neck pouches sell for $12 to $25 at eBags and Altrec.
Choose a money belt or travel pouch that is comfortable to wear, looks inconspicuous and is easy to access when needed. Money belts or pouches that are worn underneath shirts should be close to your skin color to be less obvious. Don't stuff a waist belt with unnecessary items---it will bulge and you won't be able to sit comfortably. Neck pouches are supposed to lie flat against the torso, so women may find it more comfortable to wear them diagonally across their body, hanging to one side. Material can make a difference in comfort, too. Travel pouches come in fabrics including microfibers, silk, cotton blends and nylon.
Wearing a travel pouch or belt can get hot and sweaty. Keep moisture from causing ink to run on tickets or damaging currency by first wrapping paper items in small plastic bags. If you're wearing a money belt under your shirt, keep your shirt tucked in to make it harder for pickpockets to reach. Neck pouch straps should be tucked under shirt collars or lingerie straps to keep them hidden. Consider how you will access your money or credit cards: If you can't discreetly remove them from the money belt or neck pouch, excuse yourself to the restroom. You may want to keep small bills in your pocket.
You can buy money belts and travel pouches online or in brick-and-mortar stores that sell travel accessories. Search online for "money belts," "travel wallets" or "money carriers." Websites such as Shopping MSN or Amazon sell money belts from retailers including Altrec, Baggageforless, Campmor, eBags, LuggageGuru, Sears, Travelsmith, Orvis and others. Department stores such as Target and camping/outdoors stores such as REI sell money belts in stores and online.
