This week I'm recommending a money belt, the little pouch you wear under your clothes.
On my first trip to Europe I wore mine religiously, on my last trip, I wore it occasionally. The years of travel have made me lazy and overconfident. That and the fact that I work in NYC and on a good day zip up my purse, but haven't been robbed (knock on wood).
But I think the money belt has a very important role in travel. When we travel our brains seem to go on vacation too, a money belt helps us protect ourselves from our vacation brain. We're also in a strange environment, the signals we normally look for in life may be different in our new environment. A money belt become a way to protect our valuables (not just your money).
What do I ususally put in my money belt?
Extra money (my daily cash is kept in my wallet)
Passport (unless I expect to use it)
Extra Credit Card and/or ATM card
Hotel/tour information
Full camera memory cards
But here's the thing with the money belt, you have to use it properly. It's not just a fanny pack that fits under your clothes. You're supposed to put it on and not access it in public. Too many times I see people acting as though it's just another pocket. But if you go into it in a public place you've just told your would be robber where your good stuff is. You should only access your money belt in a private place or around people you trust.
The one I've had for years is a little cotton one, but I know they make water resistant ones, probably a good idea if you're in a hot and humid climate.
Does anyone else use a money belt? When?
