Why You Should Never Travel Without a Money Belt, According to Rick Steves

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For the past 40+ years, Rick Steves has made a living giving travelers advice. From his public television show “Rick Steves’ Europe” to his guidebooks, he helps people make the most of their trips.

For decades, Steves has recommended a money belt for securing money and valuable documents while out and about. A money belt is a secret belt worn under your clothes. It features small compartments for storing cash, credit cards, and other flat items you don’t want to lose.

Insider recently interviewed Steves, and we learned why money belts are so important.

Why Steves always uses a money belt

“I bring a money belt for times when I’m feeling like I’m going to be out and about on the road,” said Steves. “It’s a smart idea to have things tied to my waist under my clothing, as far as my valuables.”

Steves tucks his money belt into his pants, over his underwear, like a shirttail. He wears the money belt in front over his lower stomach area, but if you prefer, it can also be worn with the compartments in the back.

Thieves tend to target tourists because they often carry significant amounts of money and may not be wise to the schemes of pickpockets. A money belt evens the playing field since potential thieves can’t steal what they don’t know is there. For this reason, Steves believes that a money belt is more secure than a wallet, a fanny pack, or a purse.

In an article on Steves’ site, he recommends keeping the following in the money belt:

• Passport
• Rail pass
• Driver’s license
• Credit card
• Debit card
• Cash
• Important phone numbers, addresses, and other info

If you’re traveling where there’s a chance you might get wet, Steves recommend putting the items into a Ziploc bag before storing them in your money belt.

Steves recommends a money belt he designed

When we asked Steves about his travel essentials, he recommended the Civita Moneybelt. We don’t usually include recommendations from a source who has a financial interest in a product, but in this case, Steves designed the money belt to his specifications and actually uses it.

The Civita Moneybelt has an elastic waistband accommodating waists up to 72 inches. It has a slim, strong buckle to easily clip it on and off. There are two zippered compartments: one for larger items like cash and your passport, and the smaller pocket is for credit cards. It also comes with a lifetime guarantee that it will be free from defects.

If you don’t want to wear a belt while traveling, Steves’ product line has you covered. The Civita Neck Wallet functions much like the money belt in that it’s hidden under your clothes yet hangs from around your neck, instead of around your waist. The Civita Hidden Pocket has a loop that you snake your belt through, and you flip the pocket into your pants. Watch Steves demonstrate the moneybelt, neck wallet, and hidden pocket in this video.

Another money belt worth considering

If you’re wary of Steves’ vested interest in a product he recommends, there are plenty of other money belt options available. Insider Reviews reporter Kelsey Mulvey tested an RFID-blocking money belt and said it was the smartest travel accessory she’s ever purchased. She tested the Peak Gear Travel Money Belt, which is one of the most highly-rated models on Amazon.

The Peak Gear money belt’s RFID block keeps thieves from scanning and using your credit card. It’s also backed by a lifetime warranty.

Kids can also benefit from a money belt

Steves recommends that kids learn to take ownership of their travel experience. This includes managing their money. “I think it’s fun to have the kids have their own money belt so they can be responsible and take care of their money.” He also suggests giving them a modest allowance, so they can shop for souvenirs.

The bottom line

A money belt is an under-$20 purchase that can save your vacation from disaster. No matter what money belt you choose, remember to always wear it when you’re out and about, and keep it under your clothes and out of view. But, most of all, enjoy your trip, and as Steves says “Keep on Travelin’!”