Neck pouches/moneybelts

I have worn the traditional money belt that Rick uses, but on past 2 trips changed to the neck pouch which I like better. I weat it across the body over one shoulder, and it doesn't usually show though clothing, though I am usually in Europe in the fall or winter when I'm wearing pretty much clothing. I'm sure it can be worked out with skimpier clothing.
I always keep important documents and amounts of money in a money belt of some kind -- would not keep in a backpack.

Laura, there is another option - if you can wear a belt on your pant/shorts. Eagle Creek makes a money belt that loops around your belt, then you tuck it into your pants. it doesn't show from the outside, and is less restrictive than a traditional money belt that goes all the way around your waist. The "hanging" money pocket has 2 colored tabs to use, one khaki, one brown, so it pretty much just looks like an extra belt loop.

It's much more comfortable, and it is so very safe. Wearing the neck pocket will show the string, so your valuables will not be as hidden from sight.

Look for this money belt pocket on line at Eagle Creek, or on www.ebags.com

I prefer the neck pouch. Use it for 8 weeks....worked just fine.

I have used several different money belts, and what I have finally found to be the most comfortable option is a soft money belt like Rick sells, with the waist strap cut off.

I then pin the zippered pocket into the waistband of my pants or skirt. I use larger, heavier pins (diaper pins would work great) to make sure they don't bend and pop open (hasn't happened yet, and I wore the belt this way for ten days). This lets me choose where the pocket sits (checking for lumps in the mirror every morning), and keeps it in one place. There is also no belt moving around my waist.

Laura, I wear the silk neck pouch across my body so that it is on my left side. With a tank top or scoop neck the cord shows, but I also keep it tucked into my pants there. If the cord is cut it won't fall and if someone tries to remove it from my wasteband, I can easily feel it. And be sure to have a copy of your friend's passport and numbers from cards as you may have to save that person's trip!

I use the traditional moneybelt on travel days (at the airports, train stations, etc)but once I've arrived if the hotel room has a safe I really like to use the clothing with hidden zippers. More and more of it is available and even though my daughter is your age I don't like to wear the typical safari or older lady traveling outfits such as those sold by Magellan! I have a pair of black cargo style capris (pull ties at the bottom of the legs, draw string waist) that are quick-dry fabric. I got them at REI a few years ago. Since they are designed for hiking and climbing the pockets are secure and just the size for your passport and an emergency credit card. Then I also carry a small across-the-chest-strap purse for daily cash only. I even have a skirt with a hidden waist pocket- out of jersey knit. Also try Sahalie and TitleNine online- two great sources in the Northwest!

I will probably be unpopular but I have traveled internationally on 5 continents for the last 13 years business and pleasure and have never used a pouch or money belt after the first couple of trips. I dont use one when traveling in the USA either. I am extremly alert and do everything I can to dress and blend with the culture that I am visiting so as not to draw attention, that seems to be the best of all protections.

I sew a number of small pouches with a velcro at the top. These are slightly bigger than a credit card. I then sew one of the pouches into the inside (at belt height) of each of the pants and shorts that I take on my trip. I use a neck pouch for travel days, but use the small sewn-in pouch for everyday use; a credit card, ATM card, large cash, extra car key. I keep small cash in my front pocket, but the other items are safe inside. These are cheap, easy to make, and effective.

I hate the waiste pouch idea....
just not comfortable if you ask me
last trip I bought a neck pouch....it stayed in the suitcase, I never used it.
I relied on my wallet with the chain....that gave me more security and it was comfortable
that being said I am going to give it another try this trip.

Charlie, I like your idea of customizing your pants with a special pocket. Now, I don't have time to do that this trip, but for someone who thinks money belts/neck pouches are bulky, it's very clever. May I ask, where do you keep your passport? The pockets don't sound quite big enough for that, and I was under the impression you're supposed to carry your passport with you (I mean, not leave it back at the hotel in your suitcase). None of the hotels I'm staying at (or probably will stay at in the next few years) are fancy enough to provide safes.