Ruth Haines
Money belts are a popular accessory for travellers to keep their valuables safe. They are available in a wide range of styles and prices, with some offering RFID-blocking technology to prevent thieves from skimming bank cards or passports. While some travellers prefer to wear their money belts at all times, others choose to remove them and place them in their carry-on luggage when passing through airport security to avoid extra attention. It is recommended to research and choose a money belt that suits your needs, considering factors such as comfort, capacity, and the level of security it provides. So, can you buy a money belt at the airport? While it is not mentioned whether money belts are sold at airports, they are readily available online, with some popular options including the Raytix RFID Money Belt and the ANJ Money Belt, both available on Amazon.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Necessity | Not necessary for every traveler |
| Where to buy | Amazon |
| Price | $11-$30 |
| Types | Simple, cheap; Specialist for running; Waterproof; RFID-blocking |
| Considerations | Where you're headed and what you'll be doing; Comfort; Functionality; Colour; Size; Security features; Material; Capacity |
| Airport security | Remove at security and place in hand luggage; Wear after security |
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What You'll Learn
Do you need to remove a money belt at airport security?
It is recommended that you remove your money belt at airport security and place it in your carry-on luggage. Money belts are considered a form of bag or carry-on item, and security checks may be slower if passengers do not remove them. Some airports may allow you to keep your money belt on, but others will require you to remove it and send it through the scanner.
If you are enrolled in a Trusted Traveler or Global Entry program, you may be eligible for expedited screening at selected airports, where you will not need to remove your money belt. However, this is not guaranteed, as security agents may impose random screenings at any time.
To avoid potential issues, it is advisable to remove your money belt before reaching the security checkpoint and place it in your carry-on bag. You can then put the belt back on after passing through security. This way, you can ensure your valuables remain with you at all times and avoid any delays during the security screening process.
Additionally, it is worth noting that some people express concerns about theft during the security process. To mitigate this risk, some travellers suggest keeping valuables in a locked compartment of your carry-on bag or placing them in a separate bag that can be easily accessed and monitored during the screening. Ultimately, the decision to remove or keep your money belt on depends on the specific airport's policies and your personal preferences for security and convenience.
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Where to buy a money belt
Money belts are a great way to keep your valuables safe and easily accessible when travelling. They are portable security pouches that can be worn under your clothes, keeping your passport, cards, cash, and other essentials close to hand.
When it comes to buying a money belt, you have a few options. Firstly, you can purchase one online and have it delivered before your trip. Websites like Amazon offer a wide range of money belts with different features, such as RFID-blocking lining for added security.
However, if you need a money belt last minute or prefer to buy in-store, there are several options available. Many large department stores, such as Target and Walmart, sell money belts in their luggage sections. Additionally, travel and luggage stores, including Rick Steves Travel Store, The Container Store, and Sears, often stock money belts and other travel accessories. If you're looking for a specialised product, outdoor and camping stores like REI may be a good option.
In some cases, you may even be able to purchase a money belt at the airport, although options may be limited and prices could be higher. It is always a good idea to check with your local stores to see what they have available.
When choosing a money belt, consider your priorities. If you want to focus on security, opt for a slim, soft, and comfortable belt that is inconspicuous under your clothes. If convenience is key, look for a belt with easy access to compartments and ensure it has enough capacity for your essentials.
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Money belt features and considerations
Money belts are designed to be worn underneath clothing, making them harder for pickpockets to find and keeping your valuables safe. They are particularly useful if you have ever lost your wallet while travelling and had to deal with the hassle of cancelling cards and getting replacements.
When selecting a money belt, you should consider the material it is made from, looking at both comfort and functionality. If you plan to wear your belt all day, comfort may be your top priority. If you will be dipping in and out of the belt to access items, you may want to prioritise a belt that offers convenient access. If you are going on an active holiday, you may want to consider a specialist travel belt designed for running. If you are headed somewhere hot, you may want to choose a design that won't get too sweaty, or at least wear it under quick-dry clothing. If you are travelling to a rainy destination, opt for a waterproof design or take steps to ensure your valuables don't get soaked.
It is also worth checking that the waistband and fastenings will be comfortable, and choosing a neutral or dark colour if you plan to keep it under your clothing. Many travel money belts offer RFID-blocking technology, which is designed to stop thieves from electronically skimming your bank cards or passport. This feature may be particularly important to you if you are worried about RFID skimming.
You can find a broad range of prices when it comes to travel money belts. Basic designs can cost just a few dollars, while premium brands or hand-tooled leather belts can be much more expensive.
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Money belt alternatives
While money belts are a great way to keep your valuables secure when travelling, they're not the most comfortable or stylish accessory. Luckily, there are plenty of alternatives to choose from. Here are some discreet and secure options to keep your cash, cards and documents safe when travelling:
Neck Pouches
A popular alternative to the money belt is the neck pouch, which offers a similar level of storage but is worn around the neck. Neck pouches are usually made from soft, comfortable materials and some even feature RFID-blocking fabric to prevent illegal scans of your bank cards. They're a great option if you don't want to wear something around your waist, and they can be easily hidden under clothing.
Stash Belts
If you like the idea of a money belt but want something more discreet, consider a stash belt. These look like regular belts but feature a hidden zip pocket inside, perfect for storing some emergency cash.
Bra Stash
For women, a bra stash is a clever way to keep valuables secure and hidden. It clips to the front or side of your bra and can hold cards, currency and keys.
Leg Wallet
A leg wallet is a type of waist wallet that is worn on the leg, offering a secure and discreet option for storing valuables.
Crossbody Bags
Small crossbody bags or fanny packs are a trendy and practical option for keeping your valuables close to your body. They offer easy access to your important items and can be worn across the chest or slung over one shoulder.
Hidden Pockets
Consider sewing hidden pockets into your clothing, or purchasing clothing with built-in hidden pockets. This could include zippered pockets sewn into the waistband of your trousers or travel pants, or pockets added to the inside of your clothing.
When travelling through airports, it's generally recommended to remove your money belt and place it in your carry-on bag before going through security. This will avoid any extra attention or inconvenience during security checks. However, once you're through security, you can wear your money belt or any of these alternatives to keep your valuables secure and close at hand.
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Money belt safety and security
Money belts are a great way to keep your valuables safe and secure when travelling. They are typically worn around the waist, underneath a shirt or jacket, keeping your valuables close to you and out of sight.
When it comes to airport security, it is generally recommended to remove your money belt and place it in your carry-on bag for scanning. This is because some airports may require you to remove the belt and send it through a scanner, and it is best to avoid any potential delays or issues. Additionally, keeping your valuables in a money belt while going through security may make you more susceptible to theft, as you will need to place your valuables in a separate tray for scanning.
To ensure a smooth experience, it is advisable to remove your money belt before reaching the security checkpoint and place it in your carry-on bag. You can then send your bag through the scanner and proceed through the security check. Once you have cleared security, you can find a restroom or a private area to put your money belt back on, ensuring that your valuables remain secure for the rest of your journey.
When wearing a money belt, it is important to be discreet when accessing your valuables. Ensure that the belt is properly tucked into your clothing, and avoid using a fanny pack as it may attract unwanted attention from thieves. Additionally, consider investing in a money belt with extra security features, such as RFID-blocking technology, to further protect your valuables from electronic pickpocketing.
Overall, money belts offer a convenient and secure way to keep your valuables safe when travelling. By following these simple guidelines, you can ensure the safety and security of your belongings, providing peace of mind throughout your journey.
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Frequently asked questions
Money belts are one of the safest places to keep your money, cards, and IDs, especially in destinations known for pickpocketing. However, they may not be a necessity for every traveller. If you want a hands-free, worry-free way to carry your stuff, then go for it.
It is recommended that you do not wear a money belt through airport security. While belts that do not contain metal may not set off the gate alarms, security officers are likely to ask you to remove it for scanning or to check it by hand. You can put it in your carry-on bag for scanning and wear it after you've cleared security.
There is a huge range of travel money belts available. You can buy them online on Amazon or specialist travel gear stores like Raytix, ANJ, and Peak Gear.
