12 Best Anti-Theft Fanny Packs and Money Belts

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Are you planning a trip abroad and wondering how you can keep your valuables safe while on the go? Perhaps you plan on walking around a lot, exploring a foreign city, or taking public transport to get to the hottest tourist destinations.

One common mistake travelers often make is not securing their bags to prevent thieves from snatching their belongings.

I’ve traveled around the world (139 countries and counting!), so I know the constant stress of trying to keep your phone, money, wallet, and passport in a secure place while traveling.

Enter the fanny pack and money belt.

No longer are fanny packs accessories worn by hippies at festivals. These waist bags are useful travel tools that can prevent opportunistic pickpockets from grabbing your goods.

During my travels, I’ve tried a couple of different money belts and fanny packs to keep my personal belongings close, so join me as I discuss the 10 best anti-theft fanny packs and money belts to take the stress out of your next trip.

Quick Roundup: My Top Picks

1. Best RFID Protection – Peak Gear Travel Money Belt
2. Best For On The Go Travelers – Zero Grid Money Bag
3. Best Budget Pick – Molarun Travel Money Belt
4. Best Slim-Fit – DAITET Money Belt
5. Best for Women – Alpha Keeper Money Belt
6. Best for Men – Yoder Leather Company Hidden Money Travel Belt
7. Best for Runners – Belt of Orion Travel Running Belt
8. Best Waterproof Chest Bag – Crenova Waterproof Fanny Pack
9. Best Protection Against Identity Theft – Lewis N. Clark Money Belt
10. Best for Larger Items – Travelon Anti-Theft Waist Pack
11. Best to Keep it Minimal – Pacsafe Cashsafe Money Belt
12. Best for Extra Security – Van Beeken Travel Money Belt

1. Peak Gear Travel Money Belt – Best RFID Protection

Pros

• Comfortable and breathable
• Water-resistant
• All fabric has built-in RFID

Cons

• No key carabiner
• Elastic waistband can become loose after a lot of wear
• Not waterproof

Key features

• Light and slim design
• Premium YKK zippers for the pockets
• Comes with theft insurance and lifetime recovery service (items up to $250)
• RFID blocking pockets

The Peak Gear Travel Money Belt is my top pick and the best anti-theft fanny pack I’ve used.

It is fantastic for active tourists who might be zipping around the city all day and night.

The fabric is breathable and water-resistant (but not completely waterproof), so you won’t get sweaty around the waist, and the bag and its contents won’t get damp.

This product comes with two global recovery tags and access to Peak Gear’s ReturnMe service. ReturnMe will locate your bag (if the tags are still intact) and return it to you anywhere in the world.

The built-in RFID is especially interesting, not to mention useful. While other packs use separate RFID blocking in individual compartments, the Peak Gear belt’s entire fabric has built-in RFID, making it one of the most secure fanny packs out there.

The Peak Gear belt is sleek and stylish and easily fits under your clothes, unlike some of the bulkier fanny packs out there.

2. Zero Grid Money Belt – Best For On The Go Travelers

Pros

• Easy to conceal
• Multiple compartments for different-sized items

Cons

• Sweaty material
• Doesn’t fit large waist sizes

Key features

• 7 RFID-blocking sleeves
• Water-resistant ripstop nylon
• Trip Assurance, covering items up to a value of $300
• Premium YKK zippers

The Zero Grid money belt is lightweight and easy to conceal under your t-shirt or jacket. While the nylon fabric can make you a little bit sweaty, it’s a durable material that won’t rip, giving you the peace of mind you need.

My favorite feature of this waist pack is that it comes with Trip Assurance.

Trip Assurance is an incredible feature considering the price of this product. Zero Grid gives buyers a $300 refund for any valuables stolen from this cross-body bag. How’s that for a guarantee?

The pack comes with seven different compartments for your wallet, cellphone, and passport and can be particularly useful if you want to separate different currencies while you’re on the move.

Are you worried about your tap-and-go cards? The Zero Grid money pack blocks NFC/Contactless readers, preventing scammers from sidling past you and making unauthorized payments. 

3. Molarun Travel Money Belt – Best Budget Pick

Pros

• Very affordable
• Breathable mesh
• Rear compartment to protect valuables

Cons

• Not suitable for larger waists
• The strap buckle is a bit wobbly
• Fewer pockets

Key features

• Built-in RFID blocking technology
• Water-resistant ripstop nylon
• Two zippered pockets

The Molarun Travel Money Belt is an absolute bargain, coming in at under $10. But, despite this low price, it is still one of the best fanny packs I’ve used.

Unfortunately, it only has two pockets, but that is plenty if you are only wearing it for a short time to quickly run some errands – your phone can go in one and your money in the other! The front zippered pocket is larger (9.8″ x 4.1″), with two compartments.

Just note: Not all smartphones might fit, and you might also struggle to fit your passport and phone in the same pocket.

Speaking of running errands, the mesh backing means it is very breathable, so you won’t get sweaty as you dash off to your destination.

The RFID-blocking material is another great feature of this belt bag, keeping your RFID-enabled cards safe.

4. DAITET Money Belt – Best Slim-Fit

Pros

• Close against the body, making it easy to conceal
• Lightweight
• Water-resistant

Cons

• Not very spacious
• Can be difficult to take items out

Key features

• RFID blocking technology
• Adjustable elastic belt
• Padded with a breathable cushion
• Key clip

The DAITET money belt is an excellent option if you want something that fits under your clothes without being bulky.

You can fit one or two passports in the compartments as well as your cash and cards. The key clip is also very handy. The larger back pocket fits a cell phone comfortably.

This nifty little fanny pack is water-resistant! If you’re one for adventure and are perhaps hiking to some waterfalls, this added feature will definitely prove beneficial.

It also comes in plenty of different colors (not that anyone will see it, tucked safely beneath your clothes) and the ripstop fabric will keep you safe from any grab-and-go attempts.

5. Alpha Keeper Money Belt – Best for Women

Pros

• Triple layer RFID-blocking
• Sleek and slim design
• Can fit up to a 55″ waist

Cons

• Only two compartments
• Slightly more expensive

Key features

• RFID blocking material
• Soft, ripstop material
• Breathable mesh backing

The Alpha Keeper Money Belt has a sleek design, making it perfect for women to wear. It won’t show up bulky, not even underneath a summer dress or blouse!

You can wear this water-resistant belt all day without irritation, even on sensitive skin. It is perfect for women (or men) who struggle with eczema, psoriasis, or any other skin issues.

The Alpha Keeper’s fully adjustable strap offers a comfortable fit up to a 55-inch waist. The soft, breathable mesh material wicks away moisture to prevent sweating.

The adjustability of the straps means that this product can be worn as a crossbody bag, hip pack, or around the waist.

With two pockets and multiple compartments, this travel money belt is the perfect solution for keeping your travel essentials organized and within easy reach; a great, safe alternative to carrying a purse or backpack while on the go.

6. Yoder Leather Company Hidden Money Travel Belt – Best for Men

Pros

• Looks just like a regular leather belt
• Made from genuine leather
• Fits more than 20 bills

Cons

• Very expensive
• Only suitable for bills

Key features

• Zip pocket for hiding money
• Changeable buckle

The Yoder Leather Company Hidden Money Travel Belt is unlike any of the other belt bags on this list. That’s because it is an actual belt – with a hidden compartment where you can safely fold and hide your cash.

It’s made in the US, with real English bridle leather – so not only will it keep your money safe, but you’ll look stylish, too.

Although it isn’t large enough to stash a phone or passport, you can roll up copies of important documents and hide them in the belt’s pockets.

It doesn’t have any special anti-theft features like RFID blocking, but it also isn’t necessary since you can’t fit your cards into the belt.

7. Belt of Orion Travel Running Belt – Best for Runners

Pros

• Roomy, despite its size
• Easy access to your belongings
• Hole for headphones

Cons

• No RFID blocking
• Not for larger waist sizes, unless you buy the belt extender

Key features

• Three pockets
• Water-resistant material
• Locking zipper
• Water bottle holder strap

This travel running belt has a sleek, lightweight design. It’s easy to conceal and great for traveling or exercising purposes.

While there is no protection against RFID scanners (which is okay since you’ll be running so fast, no one will notice you!), the thin design means you can move around without anyone noticing it’s strapped to your waist.

The coin pouch and key clip are great features for extra storage, and the pouch also comes with a headphone hole if you want to listen to music while you run.

8. Crenova Waterproof Fanny Pack – Best Waterproof Chest Bag

Pros

• Completely waterproof
• Can be worn as a chest or waist pack
• Plenty of room for all your valuables

Cons

• No RFID blocking tech
• No separate inner compartments or pockets

Key features

• IPX8 waterproof material
• Triple seal protection
• Long, adjustable waist strap

What I like about the Crenova Waterproof Fanny Pack is when you buy it on Amazon, you get two waist packs! It is perfect for couples who are traveling to a tropical location.

Although this pack doesn’t have RFID blocking pockets, the triple seal and additional velcro overlay secure it, to keep all your belongings safe and dry!

The adjustable strap is another excellent feature. It allows you to carry the pack tight against your body, under your clothes, or you can loosen the strap and sling the bag over your chest.

9. Lewis N. Clark Money Belt – Best Protection Against Identity Theft

Pros

• RFID blocking organizer
• Very stylish

Cons

• Narrow strap can become uncomfortable

Key features

• Durable ripstop nylon
• RFID blocking
• Ultra lightweight and slim design

The Lewis N. Clark Money Belt uses RFID-blocking material to protect you from identity theft and electronic pickpocketing. The ripstop nylon is also incredibly tough, preventing opportunistic thieves from cutting into the fanny pack and grabbing your goods.

There are multiple compartments, and despite its slim design, there is plenty of space for your phone, wallet, and passport.

It comes in several attractive colors, including taupe, olive, and navy. It is also water-resistant, which means sweating won’t be a problem with this product.

10. Travelon Anti-Theft Waist Pack – Best for Larger Items

Pros

• RFID blocking
• Spacious waist pack
• Anti-slash material

Cons

• Elastic waistband can become loose
• A bit bulky
• There’s only RFID blocking in the largest pocket

Key features

• Zippered wall pocket and passport slots
• Key clip
• LED light
• Mesh padded back for comfort

Even though only the main compartment is RFID blocked, the second compartment of the Travelon Anti-theft Waist Pack has highly secure lock-down straps.

These straps connect to the zipper and tuck away beneath the pouch, so pick-pocketing is virtually impossible with this product.

This fanny pack has spacious pockets (9.5″ x 6″ x 2″) allowing you to carry everything you need with you – even some snacks!

The breathable panel at the back means you won’t have to worry about sweating through the pouch. This is perfect for the active tourist traversing the city.

The body on the Travelon is anti-slash! Thieves will have a hard time stealing from this secure fanny pack, as the strap is protected – even against a sharp pocket knife.

11. Pacsafe Cashsafe Money Belt – Best to Keep it Minimal

Pros

• Highly secure
• Lightweight

Cons

• Only fits cash
• Not stylish

Key Features

• Dual function as belt and wallet
• Adjustable
• Unisex
• Polypropylene webbing
• Airport-friendly

The dual-function Pacsafe money belt is versatile and practical for a reasonable price. This product acts as a belt and a wallet and provides the perfect way to travel safely with cash on hand.

The clever design includes a zip that runs all the way along the belt. Simply unzip the compartment, and slip your folded cash into place. The best part about this money belt is that most pickpockets won’t even notice you’re wearing it.

The narrow belt feeds through your belt loops, which means it is extremely hard to steal or misplace. You won’t be able to fit your cards in the Pacsafe belt, but you can walk around with potentially hundreds of bills folded neatly into it. So, who needs cards?

The other bonus feature that comes with money belts is their durability, and the Pacsafe is no exception. This safety-conscious belt will travel with you for years to come, thanks to its polypropylene webbing.

12. Van Beeken Travel Money Belt – Best for Extra Security

 Pros

• Double-buckled
• Water-resistant

Cons

• Bulky
• Easy to misplace if unclipped

Key Features

• Adjustable double straps
• Several compartments
• Three colors
• RFID blocking
• Premium rip-stop fabric

For maximum security, this double-strapped Van Beeken Money Belt will put your mind at ease anywhere you go. The increased safety of the straps more than makes up for its bulkiness, as you won’t necessarily need to conceal it beneath your shirt.

This product is also water-resistant and lightweight, perfect for a long day out or a hiking trip if you want to keep your valuables close to you.

The Van Beeken offers two zipped compartments in the front, three card compartments inside, and an additional hidden compartment!

Anti-Theft Fanny Pack Buyers Guide

Before you go and buy a fanny back, there are some important factors you should keep in mind. With a multitude of options out there ranging from simple to high-end, there are plenty of variables at play.

Below I’ve outlined the key decision-making factors to help you purchase the right fanny pack for anti-theft purposes. You’ll want to weigh up the pros and cons of your favorite products, then take the below factors into consideration.

RFID Blocking

If you have tap-and-go cards to protect, you’ll definitely want to purchase a fanny pack with RFID blocking. This feature prevents scammers from lifting your personal information and making unauthorized payments from your debit or credit cards.

Security features

Apart from RFID blocking tools, you also want to consider other anti-theft features.

Look for hidden pockets inside larger compartments or locking zippers.

Another big thing to consider is whether the waist pack comes with theft insurance and recovery, like the Peak Travel Money Belt listed at number 1.

Durability

You’ll want to choose a fanny pack with strong fabric. Thieves won’t just try to grab your bag; they may even slice off the strap to swipe it. So you want to make sure the fabric of your fanny pack is not easily compromised by a pocket knife.

Of course, the durability aspect also plays into the value, as you want to make sure your fanny pack won’t break or wear within the first year.

Size

Do you want a fanny pack to slip on when you run, or simply want to store some extra currency as you explore the town?

Then you should go for a slim design, like the Belt of Orion Travel Money Belt.

Slimmer waist packs can be hidden beneath your clothes, too.

But, if you want to take your phone, wallet, passport, hotel key, and the kitchen sink with you, then a bigger fanny pack is a better option as you won’t have to pick and choose what to leave at your accommodation.

Go for one with internal and exterior pockets to keep your most valuable possessions close to your chest, while keys and cash can be stored in the outer pocket.

Straps and clips

The straps and clips are very important to the fanny pack, as any weakness makes you vulnerable to grab-and-go attempts.

If the clips are hidden, you can rest easy knowing that criminals will struggle to access your goods. You’ll want to scan product reviews to see what previous buyers have to say about wear and tear over the years.

Double straps are also a good idea to make accessing your bag as difficult as possible. If pickpockets do manage to undo one of your straps, they’ll have to contend with the extra layers of security before getting their hands on your valuables.

FAQs

How should I wear a fanny pack to maximize the security features?

It is recommended that you wear an anti-theft fanny pack underneath your clothing to keep it concealed. Adjust the straps (if possible) to ensure the pack is snug against your body, and position it so it sits on your front body for easy access and monitoring.

Are there limitations to the theft that anti-theft waist packs can protect me against?

While anti-theft fanny packs have more security features than regular packs, they are not foolproof. Although they can protect you from electronic pickpockets, and some have anti-slash materials, they won’t be able to withstand more aggressive theft, like mugging.

Final Thoughts on Fanny Packs

I hope this article has helped you suss out the market for the best of the best anti-theft fanny packs. There is plenty to choose from, and each security fanny pack offers something different in the way of safety and functionality.

From RFID blocking to ripstop fabric, fanny packs have a lot to offer. These useful little waist pouches will put your mind at ease and keep your cash safe from thieves.

Whether you’re traveling, exercising, or just looking for a practical place to keep your valuables, anti-theft fanny packs are a great item to add to your list of essential travel gear.