Travel Wallets

What a Travel Wallet Is

A travel wallet differs from standard men's or women's wallets in that it provides compartments for items commonly used for travel, such as passports or other identification documents. Some may also have additional safety or protective features to safeguard your wallet from being stolen. There are many different styles and colors, and sizes range from small zip-styles to larger envelope or checkbook style wallets.

Typical Features

Although travel wallets vary, some having few compartments and deluxe wallets containing more, there are a number of features commonly seen. These include:

• Clear ID window or slot
• Zippered compartments for coins
• Credit Card slots
• Compartment for passport
• Exterior or interior pocket for boarding passes
• Bill compartments
• Extra compartment for receipts or extra documentation needed for travel

Special Features

In addition to typical features, there are additional features available in some travel wallets. These include things that may not be essential, but still enhance the functionality of the wallet and may make your travels a bit easier.

Special features include things such as flat interior writing surface, pen loop or slot, space for note cards or small notebook, and a pocket for business cards. Adjustable enclosures, pull-out passport sleeves, and currency dividers are other special features.

What's Hot

Among the many types of travel wallets, there are several that are very popular.

• The Security Wallet: This wallet is usually an upright, rectangular shape with specified slots for your travel essentials. The slots may be open pockets, or have zipper, snap, or Velcro enclosures. The security features lies in adjustable strap(s) that allow the wallet to be placed securely around the neck, waist, or across the body. Especially preferred for air travel, this wallet allows the he items you need to remain easily accessible to pull out as needed, but close and secure to keep them from theft.

• The Compact Zip Wallet: This type of travel organizer folds compactly and zips around for security. It opens full length to accommodate boarding passes and currency.

• The Money Belt: A sleeker alternative to the 80's fanny pack, a money belt provides excellent security for travelers. It can be worn comfortably under clothes to keep money, ID, and other wallet essentials completely hidden from sight. A money belt wallet consists of a cloth pouch with slots or removable cases attached to an adjustable belt. The pouch can usually be zipped shut to keep items secure during movement.

Designer Travel Wallets

If you're traveling with designer luggage or travel bags, you may want to look into coordinating travel wallets. Although more expensive than department store or discount wallets, a designer wallet offers a polished look and the quality will most likely allow you to use it for many years.

Bosca, Derek Alexander, and Mulholland brothers make stylish, executive designer travel bags, wallets, and organizers.

Shopping

For more stores that offer travel pouches and wallets, see:

• Ebags
• Eagle Creek
• Executive Essentials
• Lewis 'N Clark
• Travel Oasis