Top
How do I protect my passport and money while traveling?

Traveling is a great way to explore new places, cultures, and experiences, but it also requires some planning and precautions.

One of the most important things to consider is how to protect your passport and money while traveling, as they are vital for your travel documents, safety, and comfort.

But before we talk about those travel accessories, here are some tips on how to keep them secure:

Separate them: Don’t put your passport and money in the same spot, as you could end up losing both of them if your purse or wallet is snatched or lost. Store them in different compartments or bags, and don’t flaunt them in public. You can also wear a money belt, a neck wallet, or a secret pocket to hide them under your clothes.

Copy them: Make copies of your passport’s photo page and your visa, and store them in a different location from your original passport. You can also snap photos of them and save them in your phone or email. This way, you can have a backup in case your passport goes missing or you need to verify your identity. You can also give a copy to someone you trust at home, or register your travel information with your government’s online portal.

Be smart with cards: If you use debit or credit cards, be cautious when using ATMs or paying with them. Use ATMs in safe places, such as banks or hotels, and shield the keypad when typing your PIN. Monitor your statements regularly for any unusual transactions, and alert your bank if you spot any. You can also use prepaid travel cards or traveler’s checks, which are more secure and simpler to replace than cash.

Stay alert: Be mindful of your environment and the people around you, and steer clear of any situations that look sketchy or risky. Beware of common travel scams, such as fake cops, rigged taxi meters, or stains on your clothes. Don’t trust strangers who offer you help, gifts, or services, and don’t leave your stuff unattended. If you feel threatened or in trouble, get help from the local authorities or your consulate. If you are interested, on safety tips you can read the following article: 10 MOST DANGEROUS PLACES FOR WOMEN TRAVELERS FOR 2024

Insure yourself: Before you travel, get a travel insurance policy that covers your passport and money in case of loss, theft, or damage. Read the terms and conditions carefully, and understand what you are covered for and what you need to do to file a claim. Keep the contact information of your insurance company handy, and report any incidents as soon as possible.

These are some tips on how to protect your passport and money while traveling. By following them, you can minimize the chance of losing them and make the most of your trip.

wise

One of the most important things to consider when traveling is how to protect your money. You may think that a fancy wallet or a money belt will keep your cash safe ? Yes it is, but there are other types of thieves that can rob you. For example, your own bank or the ATM may charge you high fees to convert your money into local currency. That’s why you should avoid doing that!

 

Instead, you need a system that allows you to use your money anywhere in the world. You need a platform that lets you manage your money easily. You need a service that helps you save money when you send, receive, and spend it globally. Whether you have a personal or a business account, whether you buy a soda at a convenience store in the US or pay your mortgage in Portugal, you can save on exchange fees.

There are two major companies that provide this kind of service: Wise and Revolut. You can choose from either of them, depending on your preferences and needs. They both have their pros and cons, so you should do some research before deciding. But whichever one you pick, you can rest assured that your money will be protected while traveling.

Pros Of Wise

  • Local accounts in nine currencies: AUD, GBP, EUR, NZD, SGD, CAD, HUF, RON and TRY
  • Monthly withdrawals up to $350 AUD for free
  • Balances in 40 currencies
  • Instant transfers
  • No monthly fees
  • Fair exchange rate

Pros Of Revolut

  • Multiple bank accounts
  • Funds in different currencies
  • No fees for international spending
  • Crypto trading
  • Notifications for spending in real-time
  • Enhanced security features

Cons of Wise

  • No cashback or savings interest rates
  • Basic service offering with few additional features
  • Limited country support with only 60 countries available
  • Varying fees depending on payment method, amount, and destination

Cons of Revolut

  • Fewer payment options with only debit cards and bank transfers accepted
  • Higher exchange rate markups at weekends (up to 1%)
  • Just over 25 currencies available for exchange
  • Varying degrees of service depending on location and plan
  • Customer service issues reported by some users

To be honest, I never tried Revolut, because I’m satisfied with Wise, but it was fun to do research and compare both. Opening an account with Wise was very straightforward and easy to do. Just the fact that I was saving money on transfer was a huge plus. I always pay with the non-contact payment and the card is in my apple wallet.

Travel accessories

Money belts

travel belts

These are belts that have hidden pockets or zippers where you can store your cash, cards, and passport. They are usually worn under your clothing and are not visible to others or as a real belt to hold your pants.

So, If you are looking for a belt that can keep your money and documents safe and hidden while traveling, you might want to check out these two products: Travel Security Money Belt with Hidden Money Pocket and Ryaco Travel Money Belt with RFID Blocking Fabric.

Both of these belts are made of high-quality nylon fabric that is water-resistant and durable.

They have zippered pockets that can fit your cash, passport, cards, and other valuables.

The Ryaco Travel Money Belt has RFID blocking material that can prevent identity theft.

The main difference between them is that the Travel Security Money Belt has a hidden zipper pocket inside the belt, while the Ryaco Travel Money Belt has three zippered compartments on the outside.

The Travel Security Money Belt also has a buckle closure and a nickel-free nylon strap, while the Ryaco Travel Money Belt has a zipper closure and an elastic strap. Both of these belts are adjustable and comfortable to wear, and they come in various colors.

Passport Holder

Passport Holder

If you are looking for a convenient and stylish way to carry your passport and vaccine card when you travel, you might want to check out the Passport and Vaccine Card Holder Combo by BECEERE.

LOOKS: This passport and vaccine card holder is not only handy and useful, but also has a distinctive look. The varied pattern design can make you stand out, which is a perfect gift for travelers.

SAFETY: The passport case has RFID blocking material inside to help protect your personal account information from leaking.

ECO-FRIENDLY LEATHER: The passport case is made of high-quality eco-friendly faux leather, which is smooth and cozy to touch, super light and durable, so you don’t have to worry about folding it.

SLIM AND FUNCTIONAL DESIGN: The passport case keeps all your travel documents in one place, so you never have to worry about missing anything. The passport wallet can fit your passport, business cards, credit cards, boarding passes and CDC vaccination cards. It also has two SIM card slots and a pen slot.

SERVICE: If you are unhappy with these Passport Covers for any reason, please email us. We will fix your problem within 24 hours, value your feedback and work hard to make you happy

Or if you are looking for creative handmade “passport holders” check here on Etsy.

Neck wallets

Neck Wallet

These are pouches that you can hang around your neck and tuck under your shirt. They can also hold your cash, cards, and passport, and are easy to access when needed.

Peak Gear RFID Neck Wallet is a travel accessory that combines convenience, security, and quality. It is made of water-resistant ripstop nylon fabric and has a soft neck strap for comfort. It has multiple compartments for your passport, cards, cash, and other valuables, and a built-in RFID blocker to prevent identity theft. It also comes with $250 theft insurance and a global lost and found service, which can help you recover your items if they are stolen or misplaced. This neck wallet is ideal for travelers who want peace of mind and reliability.

Travelon Undergarment Neck Pouch is a travel accessory that keeps your valuables hidden and secure. It is made of breathable air mesh fabric and has a zipper closure for protection. It has two zippered pockets for your passport, cards, cash, and other documents, and a built-in RFID blocker to prevent identity theft. It can be worn under or over your clothes, and has an adjustable waist strap for comfort. This neck pouch is perfect for travelers who want discretion and safety.

Travel scarves

Travel Scarves

These are scarves that have secret pockets or compartments where you can stash your valuables. They are stylish and functional, and can keep you warm as well.

Travel scarves are a great accessory for travelers who want to keep their valuables safe and stylish. The first product is an infinity scarf with pockets that can be converted into a shoulder bag or a crossbody bag. It is made of lightweight and breathable fabric that can be worn in any season. It has two hidden zipper pockets that can store your phone, wallet, passport, keys, and more. It also comes with a detachable strap that can be adjusted to your preferred length.

The second product is a women’s lightweight infinity scarf with a geometric pattern. It is made of soft and cozy material that can keep you warm and comfortable. It has one large hidden pocket that can fit your essentials. It also has a reversible design that can match different outfits.

Both products are available in various colors and styles, and have a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars on Amazon

Anti-theft bags

Anti-Thief Bag

These are bags that have features such as slash-proof material, locking zippers, RFID-blocking technology, and hidden pockets. They can prevent thieves from stealing or tampering with your belongings. There is so many type of anti-thief bag, look at this !

 

My preferred shoulder bag 
The PacSafe Metrosafe Anti-Theft Shoulder Bag is a smart and secure choice for travelers who want to keep their belongings safe and organized. This bag is made of durable and lightweight fabric that is resistant to cuts, slashes, and tears. It also has a lockable zipper and a stainless steel wire mesh that prevents thieves from opening or cutting the bag. The bag has multiple pockets and compartments that can fit your laptop, tablet, phone, wallet, passport, and more.

It also has RFID-blocking technology that protects your cards and passport from unauthorized scanning. The bag has an adjustable and padded shoulder strap that can be worn across the body or over the shoulder. It also has a turn-and-lock security hook that allows you to attach the bag to a fixed object, such as a chair or a pole.

The bag is available in various colors and has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars on Amazon

Travel jackets

Lightweight Travel Jacket

These are jackets that have multiple hidden pockets or zippers where you can store your essentials. They are convenient and practical, and can also keep you warm and comfortable. I like to have a packable rain jacket wherever I go, It keep me warm also when it’s windy.

The BALEAF Women’s Windbreaker Waterproof Lightweight Rain Jacket is a versatile and practical jacket for outdoor activities. This jacket is made of 100% polyester fabric that is water-resistant, windproof, and breathable. It has a hood, a full-zip front, two side pockets, and elastic cuffs. It also has a reflective logo on the chest and back that enhances visibility in low-light conditions. The jacket can be folded and packed into its own pocket for easy storage and portability.

The jacket is available in various sizes and colors, and has a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars on Amazon

Travel socks

Travel Sock

These are socks that have a secret compartment where you can hide your cash or cards. They are discreet and cozy, and can also prevent blisters and odors. Some examples are here for the Travel Socks Hidden Pocket.

Travel underwear

Travel underwear with hidden pocket

These are underwear that have a hidden pocket or pouch where you can stash your valuables. They are secure and comfortable, and can also prevent chafing and infections. too many choice to choose from.

Your turn!

Do you have any other travel essentials that you swear by? Have you tried any of the ones I mentioned? I would love to hear from you in the comments below or on social media. Let’s chat!

Thank you for your time and attention. I hope this post was useful for you.

Hi, I’m Dave Gunther, a 45-year-old Canadian backpacker with ADHD and autism. I love traveling the world and sharing my adventures, tips and insights. I want to inspire you to follow your dreams and live your best life. Join me on my journey. Feel free to contact me anytime. I’d love to hear from you. Happy trails!