Essential Silk Moneybelt

I think it's a good one if you want to wear a money belt. I don't wear one myself, but I know many do, and RS generally has good products.

I have several of those belts (used to be provided as part of the RS tour package), as well as a neck wallet similar to the one they sell on this site https://store.ricksteves.com/shop/p/neck-wallet. I was also given a Civita hidden pocket, but as I don't wear a belt, I haven't tested it out https://store.ricksteves.com/shop/p/hidden-pocket

After many years of using the belt, I discovered it was most comfortable worn backwards (that is, the main pouch across the small of my back, instead of in front). I recently switched to the neck wallet, worn cross body under my clothes, and I now prefer it given my body type and clothing choices.

IMHO, it doesn't matter about "annoying" - it is about keeping your valuables (passport, credit cards, extra cash) safe while traveling. Whatever method you choose, it should be comfortable for you to use every day and keep prying hands at bay.

I have transitioned from the moneybelt to the neck wallet which I wear under my clothes and then tucked into my waistband. I find it more comfortable and easier to access than the moneybelt. Like you, I also carry a crossbody bag, too.

I like the RS moneybelt and have worn for years. I put the pouch side on the side, my tummy is padded enough! In summer or warm climates I put a small folded paper towel between the plastic money insert & the side nearest the body to soak up any sweat. I use the smaller choose a size paper towels which are easy to pack folded between the 2 metal pieces that become your handle on my wheeled carryon.

Thank you @Mardee, @CL, @Debbie @Laurie Beth for your replies.

Wearing it backwards or on the side are neat tips. WIll need to give it a try if I decide to go the money belt route.
Yes I've read I think on the forum to either use paper towel or place valuables inside a ziploc bag to ensure things will be dry.

Yes neck wallet might also work, though when it's hot, and I don't wear a top with a collar, then the cord will be very noticeable.
Then again I"m sure there are many signs that I'm a tourist so maybe I should not worry about it. Just to find a method that I'm comfortable with.

Happy travels!

If you wear the neck wallet cross body fashion, it is not super visible under clothes and your other handbag. I am glad someone addressed the possibility of moisture with the moneybelt. That is actually one of the factors that made me switch.

First trip I used RS silk neck wallet. Worked OK. Then Lo posted about Stashbandz and I’ve used one ever since. Stretchy with four pockets, available in colors to match your clothes. Wear it under your clothes, not on top as their website shows.

I recommend the Stashbandz, too. I've used it on the past three trips to Europe and it has worked out great.

The one I like is a passport-sized pouch that has two loops through which you insert your belt and then tuck it into your pants.

It's called "Eagle Creek Undercover Hidden Pocket."

I use my money belt when walking the Camino or when visiting cities known for pick-pockets. A neck wallet is good when flying though, as your passport and tickets/boarding pass are easier to get to and it is comfortable to wear on the plane. So, both have their uses depending on where and what I am doing.

Another vote for Stashbanz. I put my passport, extra credit card in a small baggie to make sure it stays dry. I find it very comfortable, in fact one night I forgot to take it off before putting my pjs on.

Now I have ample info.
Thank you everyone for your take on the money belt, neck belt, Stashbanz, and the 2-loop kind that works with a belt.

You don't need a belt for the hidden pocket type. Just use a safety pin or two to attach it to the inside waistband or wherever you want to attach it.

It seems I'm one of the lone objectors. I don't like the feel of the moneybelt around my body or neck; in fact, I rarely wear necklaces and I don't wear tight clothes at all. What works for me is a Pacsafe crossbody purse. I wear a smaller one so I can keep it on me even when sitting down (unless it's a super nice restaurant, then I discreetly lock it to the chair or table). We also travel with Pacsafe (day) backpacks and always lock our luggage. I've never felt uncomfortable when traveling. Do what feels right and best for you.

I do what JS does:

Pacsafe crossbody purse.

This is what I have done the last few trips. It is a very small tech bag. The only 'moneybelt' I could ever stand wearing was a leg belt, but that was quite a few years ago when my boot cut slacks were wider. I only attempted wearing a money belt as a result of the RS forum. I never had any issue in the many years before, but now I use this. Mine is much older and not as deep. It never leaves my body when I'm out and about, and it always has my Passport unless going through security, etc. I also leave back up financials in my suitcase once in the hotel. I don't travel in the hot whether so I recently added the RS neck wallet to the inside of my blazer for division purposes when needed on the go and for going through security...so I guess I do use a money belt, but not as expected. LOL. I don't generally take another bag, but if I do, I take a reusable, zipped, grocery bag that can attach to my small bag or fit in my pocket.

Wray,

Is your crossbody stash it the regular length strap or extra long?

Wondering how high the bag rides with each when worn cross-body. Hard to tell with the models.

I took a purse with an adjustable strap and the regular 37" strap would put the bag pretty high under my arm.

Thanks for any insight.

khansen,
It's funny you should ask. I found the regular stash to be OK, but higher than ideal on me. I am 5'5" and also quite busty. I just tried it on while wearing my tee shirt to refresh my memory. The top of the bag rides about 1" under my breast when worn crossbody. The bottom is below hip, an inch or two. So, when wearing my blazer it was a little tighter than I'd prefer. As a result of getting the link to the bag for the post, I ordered the 44" strapped bag in the link when I saw the longer strap. I think I'll like it slightly better. However, the one I have was fine. If you are shorter than me or less endowed than I am (most are, LOL), then you can decide if the shorter strap is better. I hope that helps.

Thanks Wray.