Tag Archives: Money and Credit Cards

You may think of a pickpocket as a person that bumps into you to steal your wallet, but now there’s a different kind of pickpocketing and it’s called electronic pickpocketing. How do electronic pickpockets work, and why can they be so devastating? Tech-savvy RFID pickpockets, which are also known as “digital thieves,” can silently download your personal credit card information and ID data with handheld “skimming” devices, including some newer cell phones, that are simply held close to your wallet or purse.

Yes, your personal information on the RFID chip embedded in your credit card and passport transmits through a wallet or purse. Why is this possible? It’s possible because many of the newly issued credit cards, driver’s licenses and all passports now have embedded RFID chips.

Do RFID Wallets Stop Electronic Pickpocketing

RFID chips send out electromagnetic signals with all the information stored on the card for electronic readers to capture. In the case of your passport, they can even broadcast your photo. RFID technology is a good thing, but in the hands of RFID pickpockets, it can be devastating. So how do you protect yourself from electronic RFID pickpockets who use electronic readers? You need to use RFID-blocking wallets, purses, or other RFID-blocking gear. These items have metal fibers woven inside of them to block the RFID transmissions. You could also wrap your cards in foil to stop transmission, but that is inconvenient and cumbersome. So yes, RFID-blocking wallets can protect your identity from falling into the hands of thieves, crooks, and scam artists.

Protect Your Identity & Personal Information with RFID Blocking Gear

The latest travel wallets, purses, backpacks, and other gear have RFID shielding built into the material of the product for your security and peace of mind. Wallets, bags, and backpacks that contain this RFID blocking material look like ordinary wallets and purses. Depending on their design, the product may entirely have RFID shielding, or may just have dedicated pockets to RFID shielding. It is in these RFID blocking pockets where you would place your wallet or other digital ID. You are most vulnerable to pickpockets, both regular and electronic, in crowded situations or in places where you place your things down like hanging your bag on the back of a chair in a restaurant. The results of being electronically pickpocketed can be devastating, so consider outsmarting the bad guys with RFID blocking gear. For your peace of mind, see an extensive collection of RFID blocking travel gear.

RFID blocking money belt. Hidden under your shirt it’s easy for you to access, but not thieves.

Anti-theft crossbody day bag has built-in RFID protected pockets

Classic Men's Leather Wallet with embedded RFID blocking technology stops electronic pickpocketing

Classic Men’s Leather Wallet Embedded with RFID Blocking Technology

What is RFID and Why Do I Need to Block it?

RFID stands for Radio Frequency Identification Devices. Today they are found in passports and credit cards to help speed up transactions. They transmit your account information plus personal details. Handheld scanners can read these chips through wallets and clothing up to several feet away. It is a form of electronically pickpocketing or identity theft. Newly issued credit cards, passports, and other IDs have embedded RFID chips.

Do RFID Wallets and other RFID blocking bags stop pickpockets? Yes, You can protect your personal data with the use of RFID blocking wallets and RFID blocking passport covers. These items contain a metal fiber mesh that makes a “cage” around the chip that radio waves cannot penetrate. All US Passports issued since October 2006 have RFID chips in them. The chip contains all the data that is on the first page including your photo. A growing number of states (New York, Michigan, Washington, Vermont) are now issuing special driver’s licenses “enhanced” with long-range RFID chips.

How Does RFID Work?

RFID, Radio Frequency Identification, is the technology that lets you simply wave your credit or identification card, passport or license in front of a nearby scanner instead of having to slide the magnetic stripe through it. The electronic scanner sends a signal which is received by an antenna embedded into the card, which is connected to the card’s RFID chip, thus activating it. Unfortunately, criminals with minimal technical skills can construct their own clandestine RFID readers with a few simple supplies. These devices can steal your private financial information quickly and silently—all the perpetrator needs to do is come near your wallet with the hidden card reader.

Credit cards have RFID chips

Does my Card Have an RFID Chip?

This is the important part if your card is equipped with PayWave or blink, indicated by a logo on the front or back of the card, then it has an RFID chip embedded in it. The absence of a PayPass logo, however, does not mean that your card does not have an RFID chip—call the customer service number on the back of your card. If you cannot get an answer from your bank you should protect your cards anyway to ensure that you do not fall victim to identity theft. Imagine how the theft of your identity while traveling could negatively impact your trip! You should be concerned if you carry an American Express Card, Visa, Discover, MasterCard or a passport.

Here’s the best and latest selection of RFID blocking wallets and gear to stop electronic pickpocketing.

Video Demonstration of RFID Pickpockets

The Best Money Belts to Hide Money, Credit Cards, and Passports

Travel Smart and Keep Valuables Close and Secure

The best travel money belt is a security money belt or pouch and it can be your most important travel accessory, especially when visiting busy and popular tourist attractions. It is in these locations where pickpockets and thieves target tourists. Shield and protect your valuables from pickpockets, distraction thieves, and snatch and run crooks with a hidden money belt, security neck, or body pouch. A money belt depending on its size and design is used to hide money, cash, passports, identification, and other valuables that you don’t want to lose.

What is a Money Belt?

A money belt is a personal item and is not a “one size fits all” by any means. The best money belt designs have anti-theft technology and offer various designs and sizes, so you’re sure to find one just right for you. Now you have a choice of traditional belts with a zipper to hold just bills, wallets you wear on your leg, and wallets you hide under pants. There are even more styles which you wear around your neck or waist and tucked under clothing. Enjoying water sport or the beach? No problem, you can choose from a variety of completely waterproof styles of money belts so you can swim and play in the water while keeping your passport and other valuables close and dry!

Read on to learn about the various types of best money belts and secret wallets available with anti-theft features. The latest styles of neck and body pouches have RFID blocking material lined pockets to stop identity theft by tech-savvy thieves.

Why Use a Money Belt?

You want to select a money belt for a sense of security and peace of mind, and to protect your money and other smaller valuables from thieves. Money belts also keep your hands free so you can do more, as you don’t need to hold or worry about a bag. Bottom line – A money belt is the best investment you’ll make costing you only $10- $35.

What are the Pros and Cons of Travel Money Belts and Pouches, Neck Pouches, or Waist Wallets?

Waist Style or Under-Clothing Money Belt

Best money belt Breathable and flat money belt

Breathable and flat money belt to wear under clothes

This style of money belt can be worn either tightly against the stomach with your shirt or blouse covering it or dropped loosely into your pants below your waistband. If you are going to purchase one of these – give strong consideration to a money belt that has a steel cable embedded within the rear strap so it cannot be cut by a sneak thief from behind and pulled off. There are several popular styles of waist wallets with built-in anti-theft features such as RFID blocking to guard your passport, credit cards, and identity. Consider what you’ll be securing in your money and select a style with the appropriate number of pockets to keep your valuables handy and organized.

Tips for Wearing a Money Belt

The safest way to wear a waist wallet or money belt is tucked inside your pants. The strap should fit loose enough to tuck below your pant waistband so that is not visible. The pouch should also be tucked into your pants. If you choose to wear the waist wallet outside of your pants make sure your shirt is long enough to cover the money belt from view. Try this at home before you pack.
If you wear your shirt un-tucked, be aware that a professional pickpocket could bump into you in a crowd, lift your shirt, cut the rear strap, and flee with the belt in a matter of seconds. An embedded steel cable in the waistband makes this type of theft impossible. Alternately keeping the money belt strap tucked below the waistband of your pants protects you from this type of theft too.

Best Money Belt for Runners

The best money belt for a runner is slim and fitted to the body to prevent bouncing. The beauty of this belt is that it can be worn when not exercising too while walking around town and sight-seeing during travel.

Best Full-Sized Money Belt

This money belt fits 3 passports easily, has RFID protection, and is water-resistant. What’s more, the money belt strap is elastic for comfort and to fit a variety of waists. See more colors by clicking on the image.

Best High-Tech Money Belt with Theft Insurance

This money belt is made by Peak Gear of 210D ripstop nylon so it is lightweight and durable. Besides having built-in RFID blocking technology this money belt also includes 2 global recovery tags that you attach to valuables like your phone or passport. Attach the tags to your phone, passport, camera, etc. If the protected items are ever lost and found, ReturnMe’s 24/7 call center will help get the items back to your door, from anywhere in the world. There is NO additional cost. This comfortable and slim belt is the perfect travel accessory with adjustable straps that fit both women and men. The moisture-wick backing will keep the pouch cool against your skin, especially useful for all day use or in warm climates.

Best Hidden Wallet – Belt Loop Wallet

Slide your belt through the loop and wear it tucked inside your pants. Easy to pull out while it remains on your belt.

We think a belt loop wallet is a great style of travel wallet if your wear a belt. This style of money belt is a single pouch that hangs inside your pants from your belt or belt loop. It is usually made out of nylon or cotton and has one or two zippered compartments. It is very easy to slide out and tuck back in. This is an extremely secure way to carry cash and cards since it is attached to your belt. Some designs are large enough to hold your passport, money, and a credit card. Many designs offer two different colored belt loops (black and brown) to blend in with your belt, so it is not so obvious that you have a belt-secured wallet. A popular design is this belt loop wallet because it is completely hidden with zippered compartments to secure contents.

All About Neck Wallets – Money Belt Alternative

Travelers have relied on neck wallets, often referred to as a security neck pouch or neck safe for years. They are one of the most common and secure types of money pouches and are highly recommended by experienced travelers. Quality neck pouches are made with soft moisture-wicking fabric for comfort.

However, neck wallets do have some drawbacks. A neck pouch hangs under your clothes, and the biggest complaint is that depending on the type of shirt or blouse worn, it may take a while to get to it when needed.

Best money belt Underclothing security neck wallet pouch

Underclothing security neck pouch.

You do not want people to see that you are wearing a money pouch around your neck whenever possible. Neck pouches are designed to be flat and not bulky, even though a tight-fitting top will reveal that you’re wearing a neck pouch, so look for one with a long strap so that you can lengthen it and wear it lower towards the stomach. Lowering it also makes it easier to access because you just need to lift up the bottom of your shirt. The bottom line is even if noticeable, a neck wallet is a great security wallet because no pickpocket or thief can reach through your shirt and get at the contents.

Considerations for a Neck Wallet or Body Pouch

When worn for long periods of time, you may be aware of it more than other money belts.
When considering the purchase of a neck pouch, think about one in a tan or beige color. A black one may be easily seen if you are wearing light-colored clothing and thereby calling attention to it.
Always purchase a quality neck pouch that has some type of inner liner. The inner liner works as a moisture barrier to protect contents.
Consider how you will retrieve items from the neck pouch. If you are wearing it when you go to dinner at a nice restaurant, will you have to excuse yourself to the restroom in order to unbutton your shirt to retrieve your money or credit cards? This may not be a problem if you are a student and backpacking your way across Europe, but for others, you may want to consider another style or plan ahead and tuck what you need in a secure pocket.
A thief may recognize the pouch strap around your neck (they are not that hard to recognize) and a non-reinforced strap can be easily cut from behind by a skilled pickpocket and then pulled off your body. Therefore, the best type of neck pouch to wear is one that has a wire woven throughout the length of the strap. That way your property is better protected from snatch and run thieves. This is one of our favorite styles of neck wallet or neck pouch to recommend.

Leg Pouch Money Belt

This device straps around your calf, or like the photo here slides on like a sock to stay secure. Leg safes have pockets in the sock sleeve where you place your money and passport, so it’s a money belt too. Leg safes or leg wallets are adjustable to fit most leg sizes and, of course, need to be worn only when you’re wearing long pants. These are ideal “second wallets” when you want to split up where you carry your valuables.

Best money belts Leg Safe, won't fall off, fits most leg sizes.

Slides on like a sock, won’t fall off, fits most leg sizes.

Classic Money Belt

Always popular when looking for a dressy option, this is a real hold-up-your-pants leather money belt with a zippered compartment on the inside that stores a dozen currency notes. It’s a proven favorite for the holidays! Classic money belts only conceal cash. They do not conceal passports or credit cards.

Best Leather Money Belt

On the inside of the belt is a slim zippered compartment that remains hidden from view. The hidden money belt was made to keep your cash hidden and safe from sly pickpockets. Designed to look like a regular belt, these types of money belts come in a more finished look. They can be worn with a dress or casual pants, as well as shorts, and not look out of place.

Airport-Friendly TSA Money Belts Won’t Set Off Metal Detectors

Designed to help save time and hassle from going through security checkpoints and metal detectors at airport screening stations. TSA beep free belts are made of nylon webbing, non-metal buckles, and non-metal zippers. The buckle (the part that sets off most metal detectors) is made out of a rigid, and security-friendly composite material that will not set off the screening station alarm. Hidden in the back of the belt is a zipper compartment to hide bills. It is completely made of nylon and high-impact plastic, including the zipper track and pull so it is completely TSA friendly. With no metal in the belt, you won’t have to worry about having your belt buckle set off TSA airport metal detectors. Learn more about TSA Screening Money belts.

Waterproof Fanny Packs, Neck Pouches, and Body Pouches

When going to the beach, parasailing, or simply swimming in a hotel pool, where do you store your valuables? Now you can play, lounge, or snorkel and not worry about who’s watching your valuables! Take them swimming with you for peace of mind. See the latest designs of water-proof gear that protects your valuables, including your phone and take them with you into the water.

Advice and tips for keeping valuables secure in a money belt

Keep your money belt completely out of sight. The most secure way to wear it is over your underwear but beneath your pants.
Conceal the belt even more with a longer untucked shirt, or better yet, wear your shirt tucked in.
If you’re wearing a neck pouch style money belt, wear it bandolier style with it tucked under one arm and over the shoulder of the opposite arm.
Minimize what you carry for the day, leaving the balance of valuables in your hotel room safe. Carry the cash, credit card, and ID you need just for that day.

Before you leave on your trip, spend some time understanding how pickpockets operate so you can “see them coming” before they get your wallet, camera, or phone. Get a quick tutorial by watching videos of “pickpockets in action.” Before You Go – Watch Real Pickpocket Videos and Read Up on Pickpocket Scams

Additional Advice You May Like

How Much Should You Tip? Guidelines for Hotels, Restaurants, and Bars

One question most travelers ask is how much should you tip? Typically the one place you end up tipping most frequently is in your hotel. There is the bellstaff, housekeeping, the concierge and dining room personnel. If they provide a service, they typically should get a tip. How much you should tip for those services does vary by country. Read on to see the suggested tipping amount by country and then how much you should tip in the United States.

Tipping Guidelines by Country

Tipping around the world is different than it is in the United States. Tipping guidelines now show that tipping has become expected and standardized even outside of the United States. In some countries, everyone from the waiter to the porter to the proprietor figure-in gratuities as part of their wages. In other countries, tipping is a different story. Before you go you should know what is the customary tip amount at your destination for various services. Here are some tipping guidelines to know what tip amounts are customary by country. Remember, the more assistance you need, or the more economically deprived the location it behooves you to err on the side of generosity. And if you’re still not sure what is proper to tip, ask someone in management of the establishment for a guideline, they will gladly help you understand how much you should tip.

Country	Tip	Comment
United States	15%-20%	Expected, but usually not included in the bill.
France	12%-15%	Usually included in hotel and restaurant bills.
U.K.	10%-12%	Service charge usually in restaurant bill.
Japan	10%-20%	Tip usually included in hotel, restaurant bill; otherwise, tipping not common.
Germany	10%-15%	Service charge usually included in restaurant bill; but small round up tip is the norm.
Hong Kong	10%-15%	Tipping common for all services.
Indonesia	10%	Usually included in the bill; additional tip can sometimes added.
Italy	10%	Tips expected for most services.
Malaysia	10%	Tipping usual for porters and room service.
Mexico	10%	Tipping common for most services.
Philippines	10%	Tipping common for most services.
Saudi Arabia	10%	Tips usually included in restaurant or hotel bill; extra 10% sometimes given for special service.

Related: How to Hide Money on Your Body

How Much Should You Tip at US Hotels

Two things influence the tip amount, the amount of service provided and the type of hotel. For example, a bellman who brings 5 large bags to your room at a luxury resort should get a larger tip than one who just takes and holds your bag for a few hours in a locked room after you check out.

Shuttle Bus Drivers for the hotel or parking structure: $1-2 per person, or $4-5 per party

Valet or Parking Attendant who brings your car to you, $1-$5 per trip

Bell Staff Typically $1-3 per bag when you are escorted to your room. If you call for bell service upon departure the same tip amount applies

Housekeeping $2-5 per night, leave the tip daily on the pillow or in an envelope marked tip as staff can change daily. A family of 4 should leave $5 per night whereas $2 may be reasonable for a single room occupant

Room Delivery of requested items: $2 for one item, and $1 for each additional item

Room Service and Waiters 15-20% of the total bill

Door Staff $1-2 for hailing a cab, and if they help with baggage, even to your Uber, tip accordingly

Concierge $5-10 depending on how involved the service

These suggested amounts are from The AHLA, which is the association representing all segments of the lodging industry, provided the above guidelines. You should rely on your own judgment as well.

How Much to Tip While Dining

Typically you should tip 15% to 20% of the BEFORE TAX amount. If the service was extremely great (or awful) tell management in addition to leaving the appropriate gratuity. They will be pleased to know which waiter is keeping guests happy and which they to train a bit more.

If you’re at a dining establishment where you go to the counter and place your order and take a number you place at your table and wait for the food to be brought to you, you should leave $1 to $2 dollars on the table upon leaving.

The counter help at fast food places do not need to be tipped.

How Much to Tip for Delivery and Take Out

Take-out No tip is required for counter service. Think picking up your food at a sandwich counter or doughnut shop.
Delivery Driver Usually $2-5 is adequate for the delivery person.

Tipping Guidelines for Casinos Within the United States

Bartenders: $1 per round for parties of two to four, up-scale bars the tip is $1 per drink.

Bellmen: $2-$5, depending on whether you will need services or advice during your stay.

Bingo and keno runners, keno writers: If playing for an extended period of time, $1 occasionally, even if not winning, is appreciated.

Cocktail waitresses: $2 a round for small parties; more for larger groups.

Dealers: Tips, or “tokes” as they are called in Las Vegas, can be given directly to the dealer between hands, throws of the dice or spins of the wheel, or small “side bets” are permitted. These can range from $1 to up to, half of your bet.

House keepers: About $1-$2 per day per person in the room, leave daily since the house-keeping staff can change daily.

Restaurant waiters: Standard 15-20 percent rule applies.

Room service waiters: Standard 15-20 percent rule applies.

Skycaps: $1-$2 per bag, depending on size and weight.

Showroom servers: $5-$10 for a party of two to four at a cocktails-only show; for a dinner show, $10-$20 for the same size group, depending upon service.

Taxicab/shuttle drivers: Standard 10 to 15 percent of the fare.

Valet parking attendants: $2-$5

How Much to Tip at a Salon or Spa

A 20 % tip is standard for your hairstylist or barber. Some salons have assistants who typically wash your hair and may offer a relaxing massage. They should get $5 to $10 depending on the service provided.

Tipping Your Dog Groomer

You entrust your dog’s safety and comfort to your groomer. You want them to do a good job and look forward to you and your pup coming back. Typically the %15-20% rule applies here too. If you have an easy to groom dog you can go with 15%. If your pooch is larger, very furry or requires additional attention, go with 20%.

Tipping Exceptions Around the World

Sometimes there are situations where tipping is not expected or the tip is built-in to the price. You need to look for these situations. Some restaurants include an automatic tip in the bill for larger parties. Less often restaurants include a mandatory tip on all bills, regardless of the number of people at the table. Always read the bill carefully so you know what you’re paying.

Another situation where tips are often included is on cruise ships and all-inclusive resorts. You will see a separate line on your bill reflecting the

tip amount you are being charged. The establishments are not to touch that money. It is supposed to go directly to the personnel and people that have served you the money is typically and divided up. Even in tip included establishments, you can give additional tips to people who have gone out of their way to do something well for you.

Tipping Guideline Apps for Your Phone

Never be unprepared. Download a tipping app onto your phone. Most apps work that you select a country for which you need advice on tipping amount such as meal service or taxi. Some even have a built-in calculator and other information such as local customs so you know how much to tip.

US News Recommends a few apps to help with tipping.

In closing, here’s a fun fact: the word “tip” is an acronym for “to insure promptness.” And our final recommendation is that if you “over” tip know you’ve made someone’s day and that kindness may just come back to you in another way. And lastly, plan ahead a get small bills in your destination currency to have handy for tips.

More Tips on Tipping

Check if the gratuity has been added to your bill. If it is you do not need to leave any additional money.
If you are using a coupon or a Groupon check on the original price and tip on that amount.
Leave your cash tip on the tray or in the holder of the bill, not out in the open. Including the tip on your credit card payment is also fine.
If you frequent a bar or coffee shop regularly be friendly, maybe address a barista by their name, and put $5 into the tip jar so that they see you doing it. Future visits should be pleasant and if you have a special request they will most likely take care of you with a smile.
If some can’t accept a tip, look them straight in their eyes, say thank you and if appropriate shake their hand.
Another appreciated action is making the effort to tell someone’s supervisor about their extraordinary service.