Why you should never travel without a money belt, says Rick Steves.

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For the past 40+ years, Rick Steves has made a living advising travelers. From his public television show “Rick Steves Europe” to his guidebooks, he helps people make the most of their travels.

For decades, Steves has been recommending a money belt to protect money and important documents outside the home and when going out. A money belt is a secret belt that you wear under your clothes. It has small compartments to store cash, credit cards and other flat items you don’t want to lose.

Insider recently interviewed Steves, and we learned why money belts are so important.

Why Steves always uses a money belt

“I bring a money belt for times when I feel like I’m going to be out on the road,” Steves said. “It’s wise to tie things around my waist under my clothes, down to my valuables.”

Steves tucks his money belt into his pants, over his underwear, like a shirt tail. He wears the money belt in the front on the lower abdomen, but if you want, it can be worn in the back.

Thieves target tourists because they carry a lot of cash. A money belt evens the playing field because would-be thieves can’t steal from strangers. For this reason, Steve believes that a money belt is safer than a wallet, fanny pack or purse.

In an article on Steve’s website, he recommends keeping the following in your money belt:

• Passport
• Railway pass
• Driving license
• credit card
• Postpaid card
• Cash
• Important phone numbers, addresses and other information

If you’re traveling somewhere where there’s a chance they’ll get wet, Steves recommends putting the items in a Ziploc bag before putting them in your money belt.

Steves recommends the money belt he designed.

When we asked Steves about his travel essentials, he recommended the Civita Money Belt. We don’t usually include recommendations from a source who has a financial interest in a product, but in this case, Steves designed the money belt for his specifications and used it perfectly.

The Civita Moneybelt has an adjustable waist that accommodates up to a 72-inch waist. It has a thin, strong buckle to easily clip on and off. There are two zippered compartments: one for larger items like cash and your passport, and a smaller pocket for credit cards. It also comes with a lifetime warranty that it will be free from defects.

If you don’t want to wear a seat belt while traveling, Steve’s product line has you covered. The Civita Neck Wallet works like a money belt in that it hides under your clothes and still hangs around your neck instead of around your waist. The Civita Hidden Pocket has a loop that hooks your belt, and flips the pocket over to your pants. Watch Steve show off his money belt, necklace and hidden pocket in this video.

Another money belt to consider

There are many other money belt options available if you are wary of Steves interest in the product he recommends. Insider Reviews reporter Kelsey Mulvey tested the RFID blocking money belt and found it to be the smartest travel accessory she’s ever purchased. She tested the Peak Gear Travel Money Belt, one of the highest rated models on Amazon.

The Peak Gear Money Belt RFID Blocker prevents thieves from scanning and using your credit card. It is also backed by a lifetime warranty.

Children can also benefit from a money belt.

Steves advises children to learn to take ownership of their travel experience. This includes managing their finances. “I think it’s fun for the kids to have their own money belt so they can be responsible and take care of their money.” He also suggested giving them a small allowance so that they can buy souvenirs.

Bottom line

A money belt is a less than $20 purchase that can save your vacation. No matter what money belt you choose, always wear it when you’re out and about and keep it under your clothes and out of sight. But, most of all, enjoy your journey, and as Steves says, “Keep on the journey!”