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Oct 18, 2024

The 11 Best RFID-blocking Wallets for Travel of 2024

We independently evaluate all of our recommendations. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Our favorite is the Zero Grid Travel Neck Wallet. In This Article Travel + Leisure

We independently evaluate all of our recommendations. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

Our favorite is the Zero Grid Travel Neck Wallet.

In This Article

Travel + Leisure / David Hattan

Tap-to-pay technology adds convenience to shopping experiences, allowing you to make quick, contactless payments in a moment’s time. But unfortunately, it can also be an open invitation for high-tech thieves.

Enter RFID-blocking wallets, here to save your sensitive info from digital pickpockets. They create a digital force field, keeping your credit cards, passports, and whatever else safe from unauthorized snooping. The best RFID-blocking wallets act as a bodyguard for your digital identity, while also looking attractive and making it easy for you to grab any cash or documents you might need to reach for during your travels.

When researching the many products currently available, we prioritized several key features: digital safety, organization, appearance, practicality, and price. Taking these into consideration, we've compiled this list of the best RFID-blocking wallets to keep your identity safe while on the go.

RFID-blocking sleeves, recovery tags, and super secure construction make this simple and affordable bag perfect for protecting your items on the go.

This bag is meant to be worn around the neck or as a crossbody, so it might not make the best choice for those looking for a traditional wallet.

Our top pick for an RFID-blocking wallet is a simple one, which favors function and durable materials to keep your valuable information safe during travel. Crafted from waterproof rip-stop nylon and YKK zippers, you don’t have to worry about potential fabric tears or loose pockets with this affordable neck wallet by Zero Grid. The wallet’s design is also sleek, making it easy to wear underneath a sweatshirt or jacket for added security.

If you decide to walk around for the day and don’t feel like bringing the entire bag with you, the RFID sleeves can also be removed for independent use — perfect for sticking in your pocket or within the compartments of another bag you’re using, like a backpack. Something else unique about this neck wallet is the inclusion of lost and found coverage, which would reimburse you up to $300 if your items are stolen.

The Details: 7.5 x 5.7 inches | Nylon | 7 sleeves

Convenient and stylish, this wallet securely keeps everything you might need for your travels in its place, from your credit cards to your passport.

Larger than your average wallet, consider that you might want to stash this in a larger bag for everyday use, or utilize the included wrist strap.

This super affordable travel wallet is the definition of organized, with tons of helpful slots and pockets for all of your cards and documents — ensuring that your important items stay in their rightful place at the airport and beyond. There are compartments for multiple passports and folded notes and tickets, plus slots for your cards and ID. Your debit and credit cards are also kept safe by RFID blocking technology, and we love the additional compartments not seen from most travel wallets, such as a smartphone holder and even a pen holder. Lastly, it’s available in 15 different colors and comes with a convenient detachable wrist strap.

The Details: 7.75 x 12 inches | Faux leather | 8 card slots

It’s durable yet incredibly sleek, with a profile so slim it can fit in most pants pockets.

It’s not large enough to carry a passport or other travel documents.

The makers of the Ridge wallet claim it’s made to last a lifetime, and we might actually believe them thanks to its durable aluminum construction and easily replaceable parts, like its elastic, screws, money clip, and cash strap plate. This slim and sleek wallet is meant to eliminate unnecessary items that can weigh your typical wallet down, like faded receipts and unused cards. It can fit up to 12 cards without stretching out, protecting each one with RFID-blocking technology, and includes an external money clip for securing your physical dollar bills. Keep in mind that you’ll need somewhere else to stash larger documents such as your passport or boarding passes.

The Details: 2.13 x 0.24 x 3.39 inches | Aluminum | 12 card slots

This handcrafted wallet looks luxurious, while also keeping your cards safe from RFID hackers.

If you have a large collection of cards you’d like to carry around regularly, this might not be the right option.

RFID security meets handcrafted luxury in this leather wallet by Bosca, featuring safe card pockets and a clear ID window, two full-length bill pockets, and hidden pockets to keep other important documents secure and out of sight. Made from hand-stained leather in a small factory outside of Florence, Italy, it's also a great value considering the quality of materials and construction. This wallet has fewer card slots than others on this list, and therefore might not be right for you if capacity is your top consideration.

The Details: 3.5 x 4.5 x 0.5 inches | Italian leather | 5 card slots

It has designated sections for your passport, tickets, bills, and up to 10 cards.

Larger in size and constructed without a strap, it might not be great for everyday use.

This folio by Bellroy combines functionality and style: it’s crafted from high-quality leather with a durable, minimalist design and tons of compartments for organizing your cards and documents. Dedicated compartments for passports, cards, and cash help keep everything organized and easily accessible, with RFID-blocking technology for safeguarding your identity. We love the unique design of this wallet’s built-in micro pen as well, which is perfect for filling out travel documents. Its slim and compact design ensures it won't add unnecessary bulk to your travel essentials, and it's available in four classic colors: tan, dark brown, black, and navy blue.

The Details: 8.07 x 4.13 inches | Leather | 14 card slots

It’s slim and high-quality with a convenient push-up feature for your cards.

This wallet’s rigid metal material might make it uncomfortable to store in your back pocket.

The compact and slim design of this wallet makes it ideal for travel, easily fitting into pockets without adding bulk, while the durable metal construction ensures longevity and protection for your valuables. The inclusion of a money clip adds a practical touch for organizing bills, allowing for quick access to cash when needed. We also love its sleek and stylish appearance — despite being able to hold up to 12 cards at one time, it can easily fit into your front pocket or small bag. To access cards, a small divot at the bottom of the wallet is designed for your finger to push them up.

The Details: 0.75 x 3.43 x 4.29 inches | Aluminum | 12 card slots

It’s sleek and convenient with great organization features.

The crossbody design may be less suitable for those who prefer traditional wallet styles.

Crafted from post-consumer recycled polyester (rPET), this crossbody wallet by PacSafe repurposes the equivalent of eight recycled plastic bottles. The bag's thoughtful construction not only incorporates RFID-blocking technology, but also several useful pockets and slots for your passport, credit cards, and more, including a pen loop and an internal attachment point for your keys. We love that it's less like a bag and more like a true wallet, with a crossbody design that makes it easy to access your important documents during your travels.

The Details: 8.66 x 4.92 x 1.38 inches | Recycled polyester | 5 card slots

It’s practically indestructible.

Its hard shell can make it difficult to pack in a small bag, and it doesn’t fit a passport.

Going somewhere off the beaten path, or simply want to make sure your cards and cash are safe from the elements? This field wallet by Pelican features an aircraft-grade aluminum RFID-blocking shell, and is both crush-proof and waterproof. Like all products by Pelican, it comes with a lifetime guarantee, so you’ll never have to worry about having to replace it on your own dime if something happens to it. Inside, find an elastomeric strap and mesh organizer for cards, cash, and keys plus a rear rubber strap on the exterior for quick-access items. Our main gripe is that it doesn’t have room for a passport, so you will need to find somewhere else to stash that during your travels, but it’s a great option for once you’ve made it through the airport and arrived at your final destination.

The Details: 5 x 3 x 0.80 inches | Aluminum | 4 card slots

It keeps your valuables secure to your body without giving up use of your hands.

Only the card and passport slots are RFID-blocking.

When you’re on the go, a good fanny pack is the perfect option that combines convenience, safety, and mobility. This one by Travelon takes the security of a waist pack and doubles it with RFID-blocking technology integrated into its inner card and passport slots, protecting you from theft in multiple ways. Made with lightweight durable nylon and slash-proof breathable mesh panels, it’s a no-brainer way to keep your cards and documents organized while running around an airport or a new city. Bear in mind that only the card and passport slots are RFID-blocking, though, so you shouldn’t let any of your cards sit loose in the main compartment if you want to take advantage of that feature.

The Details: 8.75 x 2 x 6 inches | Nylon | 3 card slots

Despite having a dedicated slot for your passport, it isn’t bulky.

It isn’t the most spacious option on the list.

While many RFID-blocking wallets prioritize function over form, this one by Royce has both in spades. Crafted from high-quality leather and available in 11 attractive colors from bright cobalt blue to taupe, we love that this wallet can fit not only credit cards and your vaccination card, but also a passport, all without a bulky design. Besides offering a wide variety of colors to choose from, Royce also provides monogramming free of charge, letting you personalize your wallet for both safety and aesthetic appeal. Keep in mind if you have several credit cards you like to keep with you during your travels, this might not be the best option.

The Details: 5.6 x 4 x 0.25 inches | Leather | 3 card slots

It’s designed specifically to keep your passport safe.

It’s slightly pricey for a small, non-leather wallet.

This compact wallet by Pioneer is perfect for the high volume traveler looking for something they can easily stick in their pocket while on the go. While most travel wallets seemingly include a passport strap or pocket as an afterthought, we love the thoughtful design of this one, which features a 3D molded passport slot. Waterproof and crafted from sturdy technical materials, Pioneer’s 10XD super fabric is ten times stronger than steel per weight, and is blended into a fine nylon ripstop. The wallet’s price is a bit hefty in our opinion considering it isn’t leather, but we love that it is pliable and engineered to break in with use and time, similar to leather.

The Details: 4.06 x 5.31 x 0.16 inches | 10XD polyethylene/nylon blend | 8 card capacity

When selecting an RFID-blocking wallet for travel, it's crucial to carefully consider your storage needs to ensure both functionality and security. Begin by assessing the number of cards and essential documents you plan to carry, such as credit cards, passports, and identification cards. Opt for a wallet with sufficient card slots and dedicated compartments for passports and travel documents. Alternatively, if you favor a more streamlined approach, a MagSafe wallet might be a good choice. Look for a design that allows easy access to frequently used cards while keeping sensitive items secure. Some RFID-blocking wallets also offer features like zippered pockets, pen slots, coin compartments, and billfold sections, providing versatility for organizing different currencies.

Prioritizing long-lasting materials is also essential while picking out a wallet that you depend upon to safeguard your most sensitive items. Opt for wallets constructed from robust materials such as high-quality leather, nylon, or other RFID-blocking fabrics. These materials not only provide a sleek and stylish appearance but also offer resistance to wear and tear, ensuring the wallet can withstand the rigors of frequent travel. Additionally, look for wallets with reinforced stitching and secure closures to enhance durability.

RFID, or Radio-frequency Identification, is the technology that enables data to be transmitted wirelessly through embedded chips, allowing for the quick transaction time that we now love. While this technology makes checkout a breeze, it has also paved the way for a new breed of cybercrime known as RFID skimming. RFID-blocking technology protects your cards and passport against RFID skimming by employing materials that create a protective barrier.

RFID-blocking materials, like those integrated into specialized wallets, consist of a conductive layer that disrupts the radio signals, preventing them from reaching the RFID chips in your cards. This type of theft is rare and difficult to pull off since RFID technology is used to emit a one-time wireless signal only, and the signal becomes useless after each transaction. However, if you want to be extra protected, opt for a wallet with this technology inside.

Nope, RFID blockers cannot interfere with the functionality of your credit cards. Since RFID chips are passive, they require energy from a scanner to be active, and the technology in RFID-blocking wallets and other accessories simply keep your info from being tapped into.

It depends on what you're carrying with you. If you carry valuables that contain RFID technology, such as contactless credit cards and a smart passport, then an RFID-blocking wallet is highly recommended as a layer of added security. Also, if you're a frequent traveler and want to make sure your personal information is protected, then it’s a worthwhile investment to get a passport wallet with RFID-blocking technology built in.

Pacsafe Anti-theft Backpack: Whether you're sightseeing in Lisbon or backpacking through Europe, an anti-theft backpack is a must for keeping your valuables safe and secure. We've tested this one in our New York City lab, and found that this bag has lots of great anti-theft features: four lockable zippers, a stainless steel locking cable that you can attach to any fixture (lock not included), and cut-resistant materials.

Eufy SmartTrack Link: Keeping a watchful eye on your belongings is key when you're away from home. Adding the Eufy SmartTrack Link to your suitcase will allow you to easily track your belongings at all times. We found the Eufy SmartTrack Link to be easy to use with Apple's Find My app, so you don't waste time learning a new system or downloading additional apps.

T+L contributor Austa Somvichian-Clausen is a travel writer and published author living in New York City. She has been covering travel and lifestyle content since 2017, and travels solo frequently for work, making it vital that she maintains an ability to keep track of (and secure) her personal items while on the go. Austa thoroughly researched RFID-blocking wallets to pinpoint the best options for all travelers.

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