Finding a truly secure way to carry essentials while traveling can be challenging. Many traditional money belts just don’t offer that feeling of safety and comfort. That was until I discovered a step-in style, initially designed for runners, that changed my perspective on travel security. My current go-to is the StashBandz in black. It’s crucial to clarify – this type of Travel Waist Pack is worn underneath your clothing, not on display as some images might suggest. This discreet placement is key to its security. Inside, I keep everything essential for identification and financial backup, ensuring peace of mind on the go.
Concerns about heat and sweat with travel waist packs are common, but surprisingly, this hasn’t been an issue even with my step-in band. Perhaps it’s the layering system I use that makes the difference. My clothing order goes like this: skin, bra, shapewear tank, StashBandz travel waist pack, panties, pants, and finally, my top. This way, the travel waist pack never directly touches my skin. A longer regular tank top could easily substitute the shapewear tank if needed. And a quick tip for shapewear tank wearers: they’re designed to be worn under your panties, contrary to how many people use them.
When it comes to travel security bags, I’m not convinced by heavy, wire-threaded, RFID cross-body bags. To me, they seem like overkill, a solution in search of a problem. Similarly, those “lockable” zippers with lobster claw style closures can create a false sense of security. If you can easily open them, so can a pickpocket. Images of these lobster claw locks or simple carabiners securing bags to chairs always make me chuckle. They might add a second to a thief’s job, but not much more.
I do appreciate a simple crossbody bag, especially one without external pockets. For added security, I use small screw-type carabiners or split keyrings to secure the zippers. I apply these to every zipper I can on my roller bag, personal item, or purse. Recently, I found a fantastic “round” crossbody bag from UNIQLO in black and have been using it for months. While some online images show it worn high on the chest, I question how practical that is for extended periods.
Thankfully, the strap is long enough to wear it as a traditional crossbody purse. Surprisingly, it holds much more than its size suggests. Whether I’m at home or traveling, I often slide my crossbody bag down so the strap is around my waist, ensuring the bag itself is in my lap, between my legs, under a thigh, or against a wall – never exposed on the outside of a table. This position makes it function somewhat like an accessible travel waist pack, keeping valuables close and secure.
These strategies work well for me, and while other methods might suit you better, the core principle remains: a visible waist or chest bag, especially if overstuffed, is an easy target for pickpockets. It’s never wise to keep all your financial and identification documents in a single bag, regardless of its type. Diversifying where you keep your valuables, and considering a discreet travel waist pack worn under clothing, is a smart approach to travel security.
