In 1980 I cashed per diem checks totaling about $3000 for a group of us. I had stuffed money in my front pants pockets, socks, and a single bill worth $13.00 in my shirt. Anyway I got mugged. They got basically $13.00. Spread it out
Cash is still king. In many countries, especially in Asia, still mainly use cash. Great & secured way to carry cash is to have the right anti-theft travel clothes (from Clothing Arts & from The Clever Travel Companion) and the right carrying bags/packs/luggage (sling bag, purse, backpack, luggage) from Pac Safe. And carry your cash to be used for the day separate from the rest of your total cash. Great video always, Nora. Thank you. Happy travel & stay safe. Bon Voyage. 🇨🇦🇺🇸🇬🇧🇦🇺🇳🇿 (5-Eye Alliance).
Hiya Nora, I absolutely love the speed of your delivery in which you speak. Unlike many vloggers, you not only attain, but maintain my interest of that which you are speaking. Thanks so much for the invaluable information that you provide in such an interesting manner.
Cash is and always will be king. DO NOT succumb to the LIES from the banks and government about 'convenience' of cashless. YOU will pay MORE, AND you have no privacy. USE CASH, and protect our freedoms and ensure that no money is lost to fees.
I get why you hate carrying cash, but here's the thing for me: I hate using a card at any small local business, because I'm forcing them to pay a bank fee. Paying mostly in cash means either carrying more cash (and running a risk of theft), or using an ATM more frequently (and paying more fees directly). Still, I'd rather do one or the other than make a local merchant pay for my convenience.
Your videos are the best. I find myself saying agreeing with you out loud when I’m listening. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve dumped out of a travel video saying “nope” and clicking off. Keep the videos coming. I’m your new biggest fan! ❤️
Jane, THANK YOU so much for your support! I means the world to me. These videos are a ridiculous amount of work, so comments like yours help me keep going.
Excellent advice, Nora! I feel like i could walk around with $100 bills sticking out of my pockets and somehow be safe after watching this! 😂 Oh, and i can attest to money clips not being practical. The one time i got pickpocketed was when i used a money clip; folding the money to fit within the clip's grasp made the corner of my money peek out from my pocket. The woman who picked my pocket took advantage of that, using nimble fingers to pluck it from my jacket pocket without me feeling a thing. My own piece of advice: ANYONE can be a pickpocket! The woman in question was smartly dressed and looked like she could be a grandmother or librarian!
Great point - it's the people who are the least "suspicious" looking who are the savviest! Have you seen my video about pickpocketing? ua-cam.com/video/s63bDqj9ww4/v-deo.htmlsi=AKSBfK5zrJLYJwLT
@@NoraDunn I just watched, liked and commented on it.... excellent video! 👍👍 As for the theme of "it can be anyone", I received a gentle reminder of it while out doing last minute Christmas shopping. I was in a crafts store picking up something for my mother. The item was a stenciled chest, fairly heavy and awkward which needed two hands to carry.While carrying it towards the front desk to pay, my phone in my coat pocket started ringing. There was nowhere to put the chest down, even the floors occupied by items for sale. One of the women working at the store saw me struggling, came up to me with a smile, pointed to my pocket and asked, "May I help?" I accepted and she reached in to retrieve the phone, hit the accept button and held the phone to my ear while I had a brief conversation with my dad. Finishing the call, she returned the phone into the same pocket. When her fingers grazed the loose bills I had in there, she fished them out and waved them at me, remarking, "You better be careful: if I was a less honest person, I'd be sneaking this into MY pocket! Do you have a wallet?" I mentioned it being in my other coat pocket, and she kindly reached into that pocket to place the loose bills into. I noticed how I hadn't felt her hand take my wallet out, which make me crack a joke at how light her fingers were. She chuckled, stating, "I'm not an expert at pickpocketing; these pockets are easy to dip into. Look at that, just a little weight causes them to bulge wide open! I hope you're more careful with that in the future!" She even offered to escort me to the register with her hands over my pockets, which I have to admit I was flattered by! Lol
@@NoraDunn Lol very true! I ran into her a couple of weeks ago. I was wearing the same jacket as before. When I greeted her with a hug and kiss on the cheek, she playfully remarked, "I'm feeling a little more devilish today...you mind if I pick your pockets this time?" all the while frisking my pockets. I did have a few small bills tucked inside one of them; I told her that she was welcomed to "steal" them. The grin and wink she gave me in return was worth it!
I miss the American Express commercials with Karl Malden; they made you think that everyone in the world was trying to pick your pockets, and that traveler's checks were foolproof of it! Lol
They were great until people stopped taking them. But, even if hotel or merchant refused, you were pretty safe in finding a larger bank or the local AMEX travel office to negotiate them. I, too, noticed around the early 1980's that it was getting tougher to cash them, frequently they wanted a cc imprint along with it as guarantor. There was geo-financial "dead zone" in the late 1980's and the 90's when there were few ATM's and many US debit/credit networks were incompatible overseas, but traveler's checks were no longer viable.
I am with you 100% on the flat cross-body bags!!! First of all you can wear them under a coat/sweater and second, they are big enough to hold all the stuff you need without getting in the way or being too heavy when you are walking around -- also their low profile is PERFECT when you are in crowded areas.
I have the little change wallet with 3 zippers. The middle one holds cash, one side holds coins and the last zipper holds cards. It works great for me.
@@NoraDunn I used to work for a healthcare agency and I didn't like leaving my wallet in staff lounges, so I started having a little wallet that would fit into my scrubs pocket. Eventually I ditched the bigger wallet and stuck with this one. It holds everything that I need, I have found.
I always like a small wallet like that can hide in your hand and pull out quickly and drop back in pants pocket quickly . A good one you can do sleight of hand with 😊.
Good information. I usually carry two small wallets with some cash and a credit card in each so if one is lost or stolen I still have some money. In addition my wife and I each carry a copy of our passports so there is redundancy.
I’ve been traveling longer than you’ve been alive. Traveling now is riskier, for sure but there were always pickpockets and those unscrupulous individuals looking to get your stuff! I MADE my own under clothing wearable pocket that holds valuables and passport. I’ve been using this for over 45 years and never had a problem. The only way they’re getting it is if I’m unconscious, which could happen but hasn’t yet! The pocket cost me nothing as I made it and I pin it to a cami or bra strap, never take it off except to shower or sleep in a secure room and NEVER remove ANYTHING from it in public. Even at trade shows, I’ll excuse myself to the ladies’ room, get out what I need in a stall with the door shut and then return to the vendor with that purchase $$.
One of the best places to carry cash for ladies is a sports bra. Not only are they more comfortable, they have way more space than regular bras. Especially for the ladies who are more endowed up top than I am lol. U.S. citizens also have the option to get a passport card to go with the book. For $25 extra you have another federal ID that's drivers license/credit card size and way easier to carry. It proves your identity and citizenship. You can leave your passport book secured safely at your accommodation and only carry it when you need it. You need the book to board any international flight so if one is going to be lost or stolen abroad, you want it to be the card.
@@NoraDunn They’ve been issued since 2008 so they’re not very new. I think they’re a great idea and more countries should give their citizens the option to have them. Especially since your passport book is the only form of ID good for international air travel.
Just be aware that for U.S. citizens, the cards are only good for surface travel to Canada, the Caribbean, Bermuda, Mexico and Domestic air travel in the USA.
As a man I use the inside the waistline security wallet. I used the security wallets in Asia and S. America. I go to Panama City Panama and couldn’t find it so I didn’t bring it. One transvestite one side knocks into my left leg while I am looking at the left the other reaches into my shorts pocket on the right leg, pulls the wallet out and goggles like a girl as he is running away. I think they may be geniuses b/c no one can id them easily b/c they are dressed as women. I still carry that inner waistband wallet that loops around the belt through the US.. My old college friends call it the crotch rocket 😊😀.
You hit the nail on the head when you talked about the minimum that you NEED to bring. To large extent learning how little one NEEDS, is a payoff of travel. Hi from Doug Ford Land :)
I’m also a firm believer in having an extra stash of cash and cards separate from what I carry every day, even at home. (especially since having my wallet stolen in Hong Kong). I’m not traveling much these days, caring for my 90 year old mom, so doing it vicariously through you 🤣 Your videos will have me well prepared for when I can get out there again, so thanks! 😁
YES! These tips are equally important at home as they are abroad. Glad you agree! After I started using my slim wallet on the road, I realized it was equally - if not more - useful at home too.
Yeah mainland China never had issues b/c there are laws on the books that say accosting or stealing from a foreign businessman is 3 times the punishment. I always was concerned walking in those alleys in Hong Kong.
I like to carry some cash while traveling. If a problem develops with my cards, i have cash. I was in Buenos Aires in November. My wallet got picked. I immediately called the cc companies. Luckily I brought some cash that i kept in the hotel safe so my trip wasn't ruined. I have a slim leather zipper pouch with a loop. My belt secures the loop and the pouch flips over and under my pants. The only thing visable is a black leather loop on my belt. I can carry a couple thousand if I had the need. Because it is leather, it doesn't make me sweat.
The safe wasn’t working in Panama b/c the batteries were going out on the number pad. The maintenance guy there from Argentina that I got to know at the B&B saw my big wad of cash inside and his eyes lit up. Life has been hard for the Argentinians that is why a lot them have moved to Panama.
In my opinion the belt with a zipper pocket on the back is the way to go. Your money is always with you but it's hidden and safe. Plus it is as comfortable as a regular belt. Have a small amount of cash elsewhere on your person. I would never travel internationally without a fair amount of cash. Sometimes cards don't work, networks are down, electricity is out, governments do weird things with the money supply, but so far cash almost always works in the places I like to go.
Thank you for your time and posting. All my pants that I am buying for travel will have at least one zippered pocket. It's not theft-proof, but it will keep honest people honest. And I'm 6'2", which helps also. :)
I like to carry some money in a clip in an easily-accessible pocket in case of mugging, a thickish bunch of lowest-denomination bills with one higher-denomination bill on the outside. If someone demands your wallet or money, the clip lets them see easily that it's real money. Don't hand it to them but throw it some distance away from you and run in the other direction yelling. Most thieves will just go for the sure cash that's sitting quietly rather than spend energy chasing someone who's attracting attention.
I got stolen from in Panama city fr some transvestites. They bum rushed me, stole the wallet out of my shorts pocket and ran giggling like girls. I went out to that corner 2 days later to fight them on the street & they run off crying 😃. True story .
Great content. Although cash and nearly everything one owns can be stolen . The idea of a cashless society where all transactions are monitored and your financial life controlled by big brother is a larger danger than a pick pocket or ordinary robber. Your tips for prevention are excellent.
@@NoraDunn You are making a big mistake. Please think a bit more on this issue. A cashless society would be absolutely awful for so many reasons. We all need to use cash in preference to card as much as possible, and boycott cashless businesses.
Good tips! I'm heading to Japan, where cash is still king. I have always split my money up into several places on my person or secured locations/bags. Yes, please people, stop lifting up your shirt and rumaging through your money belt in public! Haha! 😅 Go to the bathroom or some hidden place and take out the cash you need. One it's kind of an unpleasant site, and two you're letting any potential thieves see how much $$ you're carrying. One other tip I go by is never keeping my wallet in my back pocket. It's just waaaaaaaay too easy for someone to swipe or it to fall out without you noticing. For women carrying a purse, I recommend wearing it over one shoulder and under the opposite arm...and in front of you. This will make it harder to snatch and with it in front of you, it will be in your line of vision more often than not.
Good tips. I don't like to pull my wallet out in public. I use my Apple Watch/wallet where accepted. If I have to pull out my wallet, it's a slim one (actually my late husband's front pocket wallet from Rogue Industries). I keep it in the inside zip compartment of my purse, so if someone reaches into my purse, they won't get my wallet. Since I'm widowed, I'm solo now. I spend a month in Paris (soon to return), and to keep Euros handy, I love the Hobo Bags "go" cute kiss-lock coin purse. It has a clip, and it's fine (since it's a small amount of cash) to clip it to the outside of my purse (again, I don't have to open my purse to get a few coins). When I'm out and about where I don't want to carry my usual purse, such as in a park or on a picnic, I carry a cross-body leather Bandolier brand phone case and the accompanying extra attached case for a copy of my passport, apartment key, etc. I can wear it under my jacket or sweater at night. All this said, when I'm in Paris, I don't want to draw attention to myself with the popular "travel" purses. I think it's advertising American, not that I pass for French. I carry a comfortable leather purse, crossbody.
Great strategies! I am starting to use Apple Pay much more now - it's way more convenient, and as it turns out - more secure too! (I have a video coming out about that soon). I also like your Bandolier strategy for phone and essentials. I might look into one of those.
@@NoraDunn I found Apple Pay worked at most places in Paris last year, and also in the UK. For years, I've been using it instead of an Oyster Card for the London Tube. In Paris, I still use my Navigo Card as Apple Pay isn't always an option on the Paris metro. I hope that changes, but I walk most everywhere. The Bandolier for my phone makes me feel less of a target when I'm out and about. Because I store my boarding passes on my iPhone, I've never had an issue "wearing" the bandolier with the pouch (for passport and slim wallet) onto an American Airlines plane. They don't count it as an extra piece of luggage. Not sure about other airlines. You have so many good tips, I hope travelers subscribe to your channel. Because I do longer stays in one place, I have a Wise account with a debit card for paying in Euros, so I don't have to use my US accounts. I still carry my US debit card (locked in my apartment safe) and carry the Wise debit card. Most of my expat friends have Wise accounts. It's a good option for frequent travelers, long-stay travelers.
@@ffcwatercolors5552 I have a Wise account as well - perhaps it's time to get myself a debit card! Thanks for sharing your experiences, and for your support of my channel!
The money belt I had was basically a fanny pack. It was hard to keep it inside. When I had to be extra careful, I'd tuck that belt inside. I had my cash in a book-shaped safe. Frankly it looked fake as heck but at least it had a key. I would put that in my day bag and a padlock on the zippers. Really luckily nothing happened and I went through India and Southeast Asia!
I'm glad nothing happened! Interesting about the book-safe; I have another video about crazy ways to hide money, and there are a few book-safe tricks! ua-cam.com/video/8eWSJenOFlE/v-deo.htmlsi=K3RV1BIErp5vpcAA
Nora, i love my Fur Art thin wallet. thank you for this recommendation. it is smooth leather, so that it can be cleaned easily and it came in many colours, so i chose lime- im done searching for black items in my black purse.:) thank you for saving me this time of research
Hi I use mostly cash when i travel to save the credit card charge for where i stay and eat. Every morning i put my days cash into a small holder and that goes into my cross body bag. The rest of my cash stays next to my body under clothes. Keeps me on budget and i never have to pull out a stack of cash. Passport stays next to body also so i can leave a country quickly if needed.
You have to watch leaving valuables in your luggage, even if locked, because people steal from those too. Also, we left things on a tour bus and someone broke into that too!!!!!
I like the travel duffels w/ wheels that have a drop bottom that zips out and there is usually another zipper liner to hide a sock w/ goodies tied to the “inner”handle bar. And put a pair of shorts in drop bottom to cover up the zippered liner. Tied the sock w/ goodies real tight around the inner metal handle telescope frame handle so it would take time for them to get in their and remove it.
A carry walk-around money in two different pockets. The bulk of money in one pocket and numerous low denomination bills in another pocket to toss. Only carry driver license and medical insurance card in a different pocket and a throw-away wallet with a couple of exposed bills in a fourth pocket for tossing.
It’s been a while since I traveled in Europe, however, when carrying cash I kept some stashed in several location and carried American Express Travelers Checks too. Safe Travels 😉🇺🇸
If you are carrying cash to exchange at an exchange point. (bank or currency exchange shop) then make sure your cash is as good as it can be. No ripped or torn bills, no bills with writing on them, no bills with too many folds. Some places will only take flat perfect currency to exchange. Also if you are carrying a large amount of cash, split it up and carry it in different places, not all in one place.
"Moving the world forward as a cashless society" will have a downside when it effects your carbon credit score. Don't think for a second this isn't about a digital panopticon on how you spend your money.
Good stuff and well worth knowing if you are traveling. I once was on a back country trip for almost a week where hygene/washing up was not part of the routine. Thought I had come down with a case of jock rot or worse until I realized it was just my cash cache reacting with sweat etc. and irritating my skin.
@@NoraDunn Thanks for the kind words. Truly though, the advice you give out is much more realistic and to the point than anything I ever thought of. Just today I was talking with an old college buddy who was more of a world traveler than I was in the day. He was regretting the times when we could hop many places in the world with Kruger Rands in shoes and cash in other places to cover trip expenses, and not be tracked by our plastic. You could always get the best deal on a hotel room by negotiating the rate at the desk with a cash payment back then. Have you done a video yet on how to handle medical problems when OCONUS? Why travelers should always carry a few of their own syringes, etc.? Keep up the good videos.
I just have a special pouch (sort of like a concealed carry pouch, but not actually one of those) that I carry important stuff in that sits on the inside of my panets and is attached to my belt, so someone can't pull it away as I will be able to tell and they would literally have to, well, put their hands down my pants to get it. When I need something I just reach down into the pouch and pull out what I need. I actually thought about getting a fake wallet and putting a snarky note in it and keeping it in my back pocket just for laughs if someone tries to pickpocket me. I will say the inside pouch thing can be annoying a bit at times, particularly if I'm wearing tigher clothing which is why I might be more inclined to wear looser clothing with a belt so it doesn't cause a problem, but I've found this to be the best (aside from maybe a money belt, but this is concealed and it would takes someone a bit of effort to get to it and I would know). Other tips might be to NOT use ATMs and only carry the necessary things with you (DL, one or two credit cards maybe, and some cash, and if you must, your passport -- although nowadays I just carry a copy of my passport in my inside pocket). If I need my real passport I'd rather be slightly inconvenienced with ahving to go get it and go to a police station or something, than have it stolen (plus if your passport gets stolen, getting home can be a challenge to, if they steel the photo copy, not a big deal).
I get significant cash discounts at small businesses here in Australia. 10% is a lot. With cash on me I know how much I have to spend. I never know the balance on my cards as I refuse to put any banking on my tracking device.
@@NoraDunn I did not ask for the discounts. The 2 retailers offered me the discount when they saw I was paying with cash. Our local bakery states that paying with cash is free as the baker charges a fee for using cards. One of my retailers stated he pays 700 a month to accept cards. That is just 1 small retailer. Imagine what the big boys pay in card fees. Those fees will skyrocket with a digital currency, as choice will not be allowed.
I used to live in the UAE in the Arabian Gulf. I visited friends in Texas and found I'd have to fly to New York to change my UAE currency into American dollars. The UAE's currency is linked to the US dollar. Large countries like the USA can be surprisingly parochial and conservative. I never had this problem in Europe or Asia.
Great question! I struggle with going swimming (eg: at the beach) while solo. Some people have lockable bags that they can lock to a fixed object. Some bury their cash/valuables in the sand. And some just say within eye-shot of their valuables.
I bought a waterproof neck pouch that worked great - I put my iphone, electronic car key, wallet in side. I also have a waterproof crossbody for swimming in case the neck pouch gets annoying
I travel all the time with a wallet that has a front & back zipper, with a carabiner attached to it so that it’s always in my pocket and no chance of pickpockets getting their hands on it. They would end up with both my wallet & I in their home as well. Lesson learned from previous bad pickpocket experiences.
I got stolen from in Panama 🇵🇦 and the one credit card in small wallet I had left I put in my sock covered by the tongue of the shoe. I had to take it out airport security to get on plane out. Panama City to Miami flight some guy was fiddling w/ my shoe trying to pick pocket my sock while I was sitting.
Hi Nora. You showed your use of the great ultra-thin wallet and a bag? like over the shoulder. I haven't seen any other comments about that so thought I would throw it out there.
Do you keep all your money with you at all times while traveling or leave them in the residence your are staying whether it’s a hotel or air bnb etc. thanks
You need cash at times. I always remove a small amount at the end of the day, to my outer bag to use the next day, rather than pulling amounts out when your out and about. Easily managed.
Cash can save you from a giant headache. Years ago I blundered badly and found myself in a little Greek village totally broke. This was before credit cards were common, so most of my money was in travelers checks. No one wanted those. Too risky. I pulled out a $20 bill. No dice. This was during the Carter years and the dollar was way down. Then I pulled out some German marks. The money changer's eyes lit up. He was happy to take those. Why German abandoned their marvelous currency for the Euro is beyond me. My suggestion to not only take cash, but to have cash in various currencies just in case banks start crashing-as indeed they are as I write this.
I went to the Netherlands recently. It's card everywhere. A few places will also take cash, but they prefer card. I never used cash once; not even to use the gents.
Really? I didn't realize that was the case in Japan. I would have thought everybody would accept credit cards, though I do have some memory of some vending machines not accepting foreign credit cards when I was there.
Once, before going on vacation, I hid my jewelry in my house. I forgot where I put it and didn’t find it for 3 months. Now, when I hide anything, I send myself an email message as a reminder.
I store all my credit card phone numbers on my cell phone. If my wallet is stolen then I can quickly call the credit card vendors to report it. Go into your credit card/bank settings and setup notifications when your card is being used. This way, if your credit card/s are stolen and you don't know it at least you'll get a message saying the card is being used. Also, it's a good idea to know your drivers license number and/or ss number. I store those on my phone in a coded way only I know. As far as cash. I do carry cash (usually for tips) when I travel trying not to use an atm. When I reach my destination I'll carry the minimum with me for the day and keep the other amount hidden in my hotel room. No! Not under the mattress. 😊 Just remember to get it before you check out. The small wallets are a good idea for women. However, my wife loves her purse so I can see her leaving a small wallet on a counter or table. Another thing I see with the younger women every place I travel. Leaving your cell phone sticking half way out of your back pocket. No matter how tight your pants are thieves are bolder nowadays. They won't hesitate to grab and go even in full daylight.
I have a similar wallet, but from another company. I think it's a basic template that a lot of different companies use cos I've seen cheap versions (which i have... lol) and more expensive ones that are all essentially the same design, albeit a few differences like some have an opening where your most used card goes that enables you to push it out for access more easily. I also got the one with an Air Tag slot. I just returned from a trip to the UK and Paris and it was really nice to be able to pay for almost everything using my phone and Apple Pay. Only time I had cash was so I could tip the guide on the food tour I went on. If it wasn't for that I would have been entirely cashless for the whole trip.
I'm increasingly cashless in everything I do, and I'm just starting to get on the Apple Pay bandwagon. It's definitely convenient to pay with a phone since we always have our phones with us anyway.
I would be very worried about putting that little wallet thru X ray with many people in front of me. One time putting all my belongings in their basket and sending it along, third person in front of me still had his shoes on which stoped the line, Could not see my items on the other side of the X ray machine, very worried. turned out OK
The trick is to put the little wallet into a zippable pocket in my jacket which has to come off anyway to clear security. Or into my personal item bag. I would never put my wallet/phone/anything directly into the tray - that's asking for trouble!
Well done. I like to add , when travelling , I bring some USD bills. But the paper money should be in excellent condition, no rips , no ink pen marks, or. Venders 😊will refuse to accept. And most venders will give you more exchange rate is US currency is $100 Bills. Lesser for $50 Bills ,
Where will you place them during TSA inspection in the airport? You can't put it on yourself while undergoing x-ray inspection. This is my only problem. I intend to have only carry-on luggage. All my other stuff I send them through the mail. Thank you if you can solve my dilemma.
Interesting. I've never heard that. But maybe it has something to do with vendors in some places preferring crisp bills. I've folded pesos in Mexico....
I don't tend to keep a lot of stuff in my pockets - as in, pants pockets. Women's clothing is notoriously unreliable in that department, so I find it easier to have a system for carrying my stuff that doesn't rely on clothing. That said, You could put "pocket stuff" (like cash) in a zippable jacket or vest pocket, since you need to take the jacket off anyway, and then it's all in one place and hidden from sight while going through the xray.
I hide money all over the place, so when I randomly find money that I forgot about in a book, in a pillow case, bag of frozen broccoli, that cabinet way above the frig, picture frame, tupperware...then it's usually the perfect timing for when I get hit with an extra expense. Every time I moved, I find over $3,000 that I forgot I had. 😂
What do you suggest when at a foreign flea market? I'm thinking some in a Velcro 'd pocket, some in a thin wallet and maybe more under my clothes in a yoga belt or bra purse...
Great strategy, Lisbeth! Yes, I'll keep some small bills in a relatively accessible pocket for purchases. But I'll keep other bills elsewhere, in case my pocket-stash gets raided (by me or somebody else - ha ha)
Hi Nora, I love your videos. Thank you for your efforts. For the crossbody bag, does that count as an accessory as part of your clothes when going through tsa security and / or can you leave your cash, cards and passport in the crossover bag in your backpack while going through tsa security? I am trying to plan for my first international flight later this year.
When going through TSA, everything - EVERYTHING - needs to be removed to go through the xray, while you go through the body scanner. You can't even leave tissue in your pockets. The crossbody bag will need to go through the xray. You can put it inside your backpack if you like though.
I hate cards. We’ve been scammed so many times. My husband and I both got our account shut down in July and had to get new cards. It’s happened to him three times in the last few years
Ok, I think I have the greatest hiding spot for my larger amounts of cash. I was carrying about $ 1,000 cash or more for a 5 day Egypt trip to watch a Red Hot Chili Peppers Concert at the Pyramids and to do tourist things. So, my strategy was to wear a pair of underwear, and a thin pair of Calvin Klein shorts over the underwear. There are 2 zipper pockets on my shorts. That is where I keep the big money. Then I wear a pair of Levis Jeans over the shorts. I put the small money (about $ 100) in the front pockets of my Levis. So, I never got pickpocketed and never worried about my cash. So, there was one time that we bought about $ 400 worth of things at a shop, and that is when I had to warn the salespeople that I had to pull down my Levis in order to get to the cash that was in my shorts. Might have had a couple strange looks and laughs, but it was all good. And it looks like I will do something like that when we visit Prague, Vienna, Rome, and Venice next week. I do have a PacSafe Metro X bag that I just bought, so I will use that too for the small stuff.
Not enough for coins. And what about your passport? Receipts? Great to be that minimalist, but not practical for me. Low value bills outside, yes! I do that. I do stash separately.
So what do you use when you are traveling into a country where they will not take folded U.S.A. cash in a bank or an exchange booth. Cash must be new and not folded. Thailand and the Philippines require this. How can you transport it on your person, not folded ? I'm not a traveler so I would be afraid to have it in a carry on. I'm planning on my first trip to Philippines in the fall.
Honestly, I rarely if ever travel with cash; instead I use local ATMs. They get you a better exchange rate (more on that here: ua-cam.com/video/h34rK_SZZaw/v-deo.html ). But if you want to carry cash that is not folded, you can carry it in a money belt that you wear underneath your clothing.
@@NoraDunn Thank you. I think you are right about not bringing much cash. I am thinking about a Charles Schawb account. They will refund any ATM fees charged to you from anywhere you travel. Maybe you have checked this out ? Again, thank you for your help. I've never been off the east coast of the U.S. I'm a dumb traveler.
@@rickmoody6984 What an exciting travel adventure you have coming up! You're not a dumb traveler - you're just not experienced...but you're doing the right thing by watching channels like mine! ;-)
Nora, some countries are US CASH , almost exclusively so lets not be dead against it. Some of us have to deal w it, especially women safely. SAFELY. Ecuador is US cash. Very few places credit or debit cards work. ATM's are scary.
Great points. It depends on where you go. In places like Ecuador where US dollars are the traded currency, it's one thing. But that's actually the case in relatively few countries; most have their own currencies. As for ATMs, I don't find them scary - but there are certain things to know: ua-cam.com/video/q72eRD0yaAc/v-deo.htmlsi=cEBX5zEpNje3_9w2
Question, please -and GREAT videos, btw. Can't wear a money belt under the shirt through Security because it will set off the magnetometer. So, it must go in the carry-on, right? And if it's less than 10K, I don't have ro explain myself, right?
Thank you for your videos! I'm planning a trip to Europe later this year and would like to know your recommendation for an international prepaid ATM card to use. I would like to avoid taking my American Bank Debit card to Europe to avoid potential loss or it being stolen. I have looked at videos on Resolut and Wize and would like to know if you have experience using these types of cards or have another recommendation? Thanks in advance.
Great question! I think Revolut and Wise could be good options - to be honest I don't think of them as prepaid ATM cards (I think of them as online banks), but they are indeed good ways to convert currency and pay for things abroad while also limiting exposure to your main accounts. In your research, I suggest you read the fine print and look for things like: 1) How much does it cost to withdraw money from ATMs 2) What are their currency conversion charges 3) What are the account fees in general Revolut in particular is quite popular in Europe, so maybe they have favourable fees in that regard. Good luck with your research, and please let us know what you decided on here!
If taking cash to another country, pay very close attention to their rules for declaration to customs. Also pay very close attention as to what you can and cannot take into another country or the items/items could be confiscated and you being fined or worse and the items destroyed. Example; taking unauthorized meat products into Canada is an $800 fine.
Hi, I have so much religious Crucifixes, Blessed Medals, etc., I carry with Me in my personal purse. At TSA do I have to take it out from my purse and put it on the bin together with my cash (I put it inside an envelope)? Thanks for the helpful tips.
@NoraDunn Thank you so much for easing my problem. I worry about my cash they might try to steal it in my purse. How about religious books, my daily Missal and other prayer books. I pray they will ignore them. Thanks, Nora. I learned a lot from you.
I hate carrying cash. Unfortunately, some countries really rip you off on the exchange rate when you use a credit card...sometimes 40% of your value is lost in parts of Europe in 2023. It's a shame this happens.
You need to carry the right credit cards to avoid foreign transaction fees, and conversion fees. I suggest you to use Amazon credit card to pay for everything. You will be paid at Visa rate which is the same as current foreign exchange market rate. You can use an application to get an idea of how much they should charge you.
I NEVER use credit cards when I travel. Never. If it’s hacked, I’m screwed. And it’s hacked a lot. Come on adults. Carry a good crossbody and use your head. If you get pickpocketed, you shouldn’t still be traveling.
If your credit card is hacked, you aren't liable for the fraudulent charges. In fact, I'd argue that a credit card is the safest way to go; cash can be lost or stolen with no recourse; hacked debit cards can result in drained bank accounts. A hacked credit card is little more than a hassle. Just make sure you also have a backup credit card stashed in a separate place.
In addition to not using cash, I also don’t like using a debit card. Like cash, when your money is gone, it’s gone from your account and difficult to get back. I carry little cash, especially for toilets, but mostly credit cards.
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In 1980 I cashed per diem checks totaling about $3000 for a group of us. I had stuffed money in my front pants pockets, socks, and a single bill worth $13.00 in my shirt. Anyway I got mugged. They got basically $13.00. Spread it out
Wow! Testament to diversifying where you keep cash!
Inside pockets…socks & shoes…
You lost that $13 because 13 isn't good number. Next time try 14.
Cash is still king. In many countries, especially in Asia, still mainly use cash. Great & secured way to carry cash is to have the right anti-theft travel clothes (from Clothing Arts & from The Clever Travel Companion) and the right carrying bags/packs/luggage (sling bag, purse, backpack, luggage) from Pac Safe. And carry your cash to be used for the day separate from the rest of your total cash.
Great video always, Nora. Thank you. Happy travel & stay safe. Bon Voyage. 🇨🇦🇺🇸🇬🇧🇦🇺🇳🇿 (5-Eye Alliance).
Great tips, Anthony! Thanks for weighing in :-)
Hiya Nora, I absolutely love the speed of your delivery in which you speak. Unlike many vloggers, you not only attain, but maintain my interest of that which you are speaking. Thanks so much for the invaluable information that you provide in such an interesting manner.
Wow - thanks, Art! There’s a fine balance when it comes to speed of delivery, so I’m thrilled you feel I hit the mark!
@@NoraDunnlink for wallet please?
@@lenorefarina1930 Here you go! (It's in the description by the way; I always put relevant links there) amzn.to/3RyrIDe
Cash is and always will be king. DO NOT succumb to the LIES from the banks and government about 'convenience' of cashless. YOU will pay MORE, AND you have no privacy. USE CASH, and protect our freedoms and ensure that no money is lost to fees.
While i wholeheartedly agree with you, there have been a few places I've been where they dont take cash unfortunately
I do not partronise those businesses. They get named, shamed and boycotted. @@rexregum2793
In Korea, most small businesses serving tourist take card only with kiosks. The others? They don't serve tourists and locals also pay in cards
I bought a disposable debit card for all purchases. Fortunately, the card company don't charge me any fees, only charging the merchants
@@rexregum2793 - Here is an example: Some places in Norway.
I get why you hate carrying cash, but here's the thing for me: I hate using a card at any small local business, because I'm forcing them to pay a bank fee. Paying mostly in cash means either carrying more cash (and running a risk of theft), or using an ATM more frequently (and paying more fees directly). Still, I'd rather do one or the other than make a local merchant pay for my convenience.
That's very considerate of you, Stephen. (Nice to see you here too!) :-)
People still like cash!
Don't worry about them. They adjust the price so you are paying it.
Your videos are the best. I find myself saying agreeing with you out loud when I’m listening. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve dumped out of a travel video saying “nope” and clicking off. Keep the videos coming. I’m your new biggest fan! ❤️
Jane, THANK YOU so much for your support! I means the world to me. These videos are a ridiculous amount of work, so comments like yours help me keep going.
Loved the "holier than thou" graphic!! Well done.
😆 Thanks!
Excellent advice, Nora! I feel like i could walk around with $100 bills sticking out of my pockets and somehow be safe after watching this! 😂
Oh, and i can attest to money clips not being practical. The one time i got pickpocketed was when i used a money clip; folding the money to fit within the clip's grasp made the corner of my money peek out from my pocket. The woman who picked my pocket took advantage of that, using nimble fingers to pluck it from my jacket pocket without me feeling a thing. My own piece of advice: ANYONE can be a pickpocket! The woman in question was smartly dressed and looked like she could be a grandmother or librarian!
Great point - it's the people who are the least "suspicious" looking who are the savviest! Have you seen my video about pickpocketing? ua-cam.com/video/s63bDqj9ww4/v-deo.htmlsi=AKSBfK5zrJLYJwLT
@@NoraDunn I just watched, liked and commented on it.... excellent video! 👍👍
As for the theme of "it can be anyone", I received a gentle reminder of it while out doing last minute Christmas shopping. I was in a crafts store picking up something for my mother. The item was a stenciled chest, fairly heavy and awkward which needed two hands to carry.While carrying it towards the front desk to pay, my phone in my coat pocket started ringing. There was nowhere to put the chest down, even the floors occupied by items for sale. One of the women working at the store saw me struggling, came up to me with a smile, pointed to my pocket and asked, "May I help?" I accepted and she reached in to retrieve the phone, hit the accept button and held the phone to my ear while I had a brief conversation with my dad. Finishing the call, she returned the phone into the same pocket. When her fingers grazed the loose bills I had in there, she fished them out and waved them at me, remarking, "You better be careful: if I was a less honest person, I'd be sneaking this into MY pocket! Do you have a wallet?" I mentioned it being in my other coat pocket, and she kindly reached into that pocket to place the loose bills into. I noticed how I hadn't felt her hand take my wallet out, which make me crack a joke at how light her fingers were. She chuckled, stating, "I'm not an expert at pickpocketing; these pockets are easy to dip into. Look at that, just a little weight causes them to bulge wide open! I hope you're more careful with that in the future!" She even offered to escort me to the register with her hands over my pockets, which I have to admit I was flattered by! Lol
@@seanc9507 Holy moly you met an angel!
@@NoraDunn Lol very true! I ran into her a couple of weeks ago. I was wearing the same jacket as before. When I greeted her with a hug and kiss on the cheek, she playfully remarked, "I'm feeling a little more devilish today...you mind if I pick your pockets this time?" all the while frisking my pockets. I did have a few small bills tucked inside one of them; I told her that she was welcomed to "steal" them. The grin and wink she gave me in return was worth it!
@@seanc9507 That's so much fun!!!
I miss Traveler's checks!!
Me too!!!
I miss the American Express commercials with Karl Malden; they made you think that everyone in the world was trying to pick your pockets, and that traveler's checks were foolproof of it! Lol
I don’t. Back about 1980 I once spent over half an hour trying to convince a hotel clerk in India that my signatures matched the sample.
They were great until people stopped taking them. But, even if hotel or merchant refused, you were pretty safe in finding a larger bank or the local AMEX travel office to negotiate them. I, too, noticed around the early 1980's that it was getting tougher to cash them, frequently they wanted a cc imprint along with it as guarantor. There was geo-financial "dead zone" in the late 1980's and the 90's when there were few ATM's and many US debit/credit networks were incompatible overseas, but traveler's checks were no longer viable.
I am with you 100% on the flat cross-body bags!!! First of all you can wear them under a coat/sweater and second, they are big enough to hold all the stuff you need without getting in the way or being too heavy when you are walking around -- also their low profile is PERFECT when you are in crowded areas.
Exactly! :-)
I have the little change wallet with 3 zippers. The middle one holds cash, one side holds coins and the last zipper holds cards. It works great for me.
Nice strategy!
@@NoraDunn I used to work for a healthcare agency and I didn't like leaving my wallet in staff lounges, so I started having a little wallet that would fit into my scrubs pocket. Eventually I ditched the bigger wallet and stuck with this one. It holds everything that I need, I have found.
@@mimaroo1431 I also ended up downsizing my wallet and now I wonder what the heck I used to put into bigger wallets!
I always like a small wallet like that can hide in your hand and pull out quickly and drop back in pants pocket quickly . A good one you can do sleight of hand with 😊.
@@jayelder9725 Clever!
Good information. I usually carry two small wallets with some cash and a credit card in each so if one is lost or stolen I still have some money. In addition my wife and I each carry a copy of our passports so there is redundancy.
Great strategy!
I’ve been traveling longer than you’ve been alive.
Traveling now is riskier, for sure but there were always pickpockets and those unscrupulous individuals looking to get your stuff!
I MADE my own under clothing wearable pocket that holds valuables and passport. I’ve been using this for over 45 years and never had a problem. The only way they’re getting it is if I’m unconscious, which could happen but hasn’t yet!
The pocket cost me nothing as I made it and I pin it to a cami or bra strap, never take it off except to shower or sleep in a secure room and NEVER remove ANYTHING from it in public.
Even at trade shows, I’ll excuse myself to the ladies’ room, get out what I need in a stall with the door shut and then return to the vendor with that purchase
$$.
That's so smart, Pam! Thanks for sharing!
One of the best places to carry cash for ladies is a sports bra. Not only are they more comfortable, they have way more space than regular bras. Especially for the ladies who are more endowed up top than I am lol. U.S. citizens also have the option to get a passport card to go with the book. For $25 extra you have another federal ID that's drivers license/credit card size and way easier to carry. It proves your identity and citizenship. You can leave your passport book secured safely at your accommodation and only carry it when you need it. You need the book to board any international flight so if one is going to be lost or stolen abroad, you want it to be the card.
Thanks Sarah! Very interesting about the Passport Card. That’s new, yes?
@@NoraDunn They’ve been issued since 2008 so they’re not very new. I think they’re a great idea and more countries should give their citizens the option to have them. Especially since your passport book is the only form of ID good for international air travel.
Just be aware that for U.S. citizens, the cards are only good for surface travel to Canada, the Caribbean, Bermuda, Mexico and Domestic air travel in the USA.
@@funnyfarm5555 Great point!
As a man I use the inside the waistline security wallet. I used the security wallets in Asia and S. America. I go to Panama City Panama and couldn’t find it so I didn’t bring it.
One transvestite one side knocks into my left leg while I am looking at the left the other reaches into my shorts pocket on the right leg, pulls the wallet out and goggles like a girl as he is running away. I think they may be geniuses b/c no one can id them easily b/c they are dressed as women. I still carry that inner waistband wallet that loops around the belt through the US.. My old college friends call it the crotch rocket 😊😀.
You hit the nail on the head when you talked about the minimum that you NEED to bring. To large extent learning how little one NEEDS, is a payoff of travel. Hi from Doug Ford Land :)
Thanks, fellow Ontarian! ;-)
I’m also a firm believer in having an extra stash of cash and cards separate from what I carry every day, even at home. (especially since having my wallet stolen in Hong Kong). I’m not traveling much these days, caring for my 90 year old mom, so doing it vicariously through you 🤣 Your videos will have me well prepared for when I can get out there again, so thanks! 😁
YES! These tips are equally important at home as they are abroad. Glad you agree!
After I started using my slim wallet on the road, I realized it was equally - if not more - useful at home too.
I sowed a tiny purse out of a peace of old cotton sheet. I then attach to my inner clothes w a baby safety pin. Thin, no sweat, hidden money:)
@@robertashagam1599 Nice!
Yeah mainland China never had issues b/c there are laws on the books that say accosting or stealing from a foreign businessman is 3 times the punishment. I always was concerned walking in those alleys in Hong Kong.
Sushmita: being a minimalist is key - I love that 😍 Makes so much sense Nora 👍
Thanks!
I like to carry some cash while traveling. If a problem develops with my cards, i have cash. I was in Buenos Aires in November. My wallet got picked. I immediately called the cc companies. Luckily I brought some cash that i kept in the hotel safe so my trip wasn't ruined. I have a slim leather zipper pouch with a loop. My belt secures the loop and the pouch flips over and under my pants. The only thing visable is a black leather loop on my belt. I can carry a couple thousand if I had the need. Because it is leather, it doesn't make me sweat.
Great strategy! I'm glad you had the extra cash.
The safe wasn’t working in Panama b/c the batteries were going out on the number pad. The maintenance guy there from Argentina that I got to know at the B&B saw my big wad of cash inside and his eyes lit up.
Life has been hard for the Argentinians that is why a lot them have moved to Panama.
I used the empty chapstick holder hack for a recent trip to Mexico. Didn’t need it, but felt very 007. 😂
LOL! That's super spy stuff right there ;-)
Afraid I'd be more Maxwell Smart!................Dating myself? "Sorry about that chief"
In my opinion the belt with a zipper pocket on the back is the way to go. Your money is always with you but it's hidden and safe. Plus it is as comfortable as a regular belt. Have a small amount of cash elsewhere on your person. I would never travel internationally without a fair amount of cash. Sometimes cards don't work, networks are down, electricity is out, governments do weird things with the money supply, but so far cash almost always works in the places I like to go.
Thanks for sharing!
Thank you for your time and posting. All my pants that I am buying for travel will have at least one zippered pocket. It's not theft-proof, but it will keep honest people honest. And I'm 6'2", which helps also. :)
Zippered pockets - and even better, hidden zippered pockets within your pockets - are great! Also yes, people don't tend to mess with tall people ;-)
I like to carry some money in a clip in an easily-accessible pocket in case of mugging, a thickish bunch of lowest-denomination bills with one higher-denomination bill on the outside. If someone demands your wallet or money, the clip lets them see easily that it's real money. Don't hand it to them but throw it some distance away from you and run in the other direction yelling. Most thieves will just go for the sure cash that's sitting quietly rather than spend energy chasing someone who's attracting attention.
Great strategy! Thanks for sharing.
I got stolen from in Panama city fr some transvestites. They bum rushed me, stole the wallet out of my shorts pocket and ran giggling like girls. I went out to that corner 2 days later to fight them on the street & they run off crying 😃. True story .
Very well said, good advice! Thanks for that!
Great content. Although cash and nearly everything one owns can be stolen . The idea of a cashless society where all transactions are monitored and your financial life controlled by big brother is a larger danger than a pick pocket or ordinary robber. Your tips for prevention are excellent.
I wonder about monitoring, but then again everything is already being monitored. I guess I'm just going with the flow on this one.
@@NoraDunn You are making a big mistake. Please think a bit more on this issue. A cashless society would be absolutely awful for so many reasons. We all need to use cash in preference to card as much as possible, and boycott cashless businesses.
Good tips! I'm heading to Japan, where cash is still king. I have always split my money up into several places on my person or secured locations/bags. Yes, please people, stop lifting up your shirt and rumaging through your money belt in public! Haha! 😅 Go to the bathroom or some hidden place and take out the cash you need. One it's kind of an unpleasant site, and two you're letting any potential thieves see how much $$ you're carrying.
One other tip I go by is never keeping my wallet in my back pocket. It's just waaaaaaaay too easy for someone to swipe or it to fall out without you noticing. For women carrying a purse, I recommend wearing it over one shoulder and under the opposite arm...and in front of you. This will make it harder to snatch and with it in front of you, it will be in your line of vision more often than not.
Great advice, Justin!
Good tips. I don't like to pull my wallet out in public. I use my Apple Watch/wallet where accepted. If I have to pull out my wallet, it's a slim one (actually my late husband's front pocket wallet from Rogue Industries). I keep it in the inside zip compartment of my purse, so if someone reaches into my purse, they won't get my wallet. Since I'm widowed, I'm solo now. I spend a month in Paris (soon to return), and to keep Euros handy, I love the Hobo Bags "go" cute kiss-lock coin purse. It has a clip, and it's fine (since it's a small amount of cash) to clip it to the outside of my purse (again, I don't have to open my purse to get a few coins). When I'm out and about where I don't want to carry my usual purse, such as in a park or on a picnic, I carry a cross-body leather Bandolier brand phone case and the accompanying extra attached case for a copy of my passport, apartment key, etc. I can wear it under my jacket or sweater at night. All this said, when I'm in Paris, I don't want to draw attention to myself with the popular "travel" purses. I think it's advertising American, not that I pass for French. I carry a comfortable leather purse, crossbody.
Great strategies! I am starting to use Apple Pay much more now - it's way more convenient, and as it turns out - more secure too! (I have a video coming out about that soon).
I also like your Bandolier strategy for phone and essentials. I might look into one of those.
@@NoraDunn I found Apple Pay worked at most places in Paris last year, and also in the UK. For years, I've been using it instead of an Oyster Card for the London Tube. In Paris, I still use my Navigo Card as Apple Pay isn't always an option on the Paris metro. I hope that changes, but I walk most everywhere. The Bandolier for my phone makes me feel less of a target when I'm out and about. Because I store my boarding passes on my iPhone, I've never had an issue "wearing" the bandolier with the pouch (for passport and slim wallet) onto an American Airlines plane. They don't count it as an extra piece of luggage. Not sure about other airlines. You have so many good tips, I hope travelers subscribe to your channel. Because I do longer stays in one place, I have a Wise account with a debit card for paying in Euros, so I don't have to use my US accounts. I still carry my US debit card (locked in my apartment safe) and carry the Wise debit card. Most of my expat friends have Wise accounts. It's a good option for frequent travelers, long-stay travelers.
@@ffcwatercolors5552 I have a Wise account as well - perhaps it's time to get myself a debit card! Thanks for sharing your experiences, and for your support of my channel!
@@NoraDunn There was a $9 charge for the card. It arrived in less than a week after I ordered it.
The money belt I had was basically a fanny pack. It was hard to keep it inside. When I had to be extra careful, I'd tuck that belt inside. I had my cash in a book-shaped safe. Frankly it looked fake as heck but at least it had a key. I would put that in my day bag and a padlock on the zippers. Really luckily nothing happened and I went through India and Southeast Asia!
I'm glad nothing happened! Interesting about the book-safe; I have another video about crazy ways to hide money, and there are a few book-safe tricks! ua-cam.com/video/8eWSJenOFlE/v-deo.htmlsi=K3RV1BIErp5vpcAA
Nora, i love my Fur Art thin wallet. thank you for this recommendation. it is smooth leather, so that it can be cleaned easily and it came in many colours, so i chose lime- im done searching for black items in my black purse.:) thank you for saving me this time of research
Yippee! Thanks Robert.....happy to have helped!
Hi I use mostly cash when i travel to save the credit card charge for where i stay and eat. Every morning i put my days cash into a small holder and that goes into my cross body bag. The rest of my cash stays next to my body under clothes. Keeps me on budget and i never have to pull out a stack of cash. Passport stays next to body also so i can leave a country quickly if needed.
Nice budgeting technique!
You have to watch leaving valuables in your luggage, even if locked, because people steal from those too. Also, we left things on a tour bus and someone broke into that too!!!!!
Yikes - good to know!
I like the travel duffels w/ wheels that have a drop bottom that zips out and there is usually another zipper liner to hide a sock w/ goodies tied to the “inner”handle bar. And put a pair of shorts in drop bottom to cover up the zippered liner. Tied the sock w/ goodies real tight around the inner metal handle telescope frame handle so it would take time for them to get in their and remove it.
A carry walk-around money in two different pockets. The bulk of money in one pocket and numerous low denomination bills in another pocket to toss. Only carry driver license and medical insurance card in a different pocket and a throw-away wallet with a couple of exposed bills in a fourth pocket for tossing.
Yes! Thanks for sharing.
It’s been a while since I traveled in Europe, however, when carrying cash I kept some stashed in several location and carried American Express Travelers Checks too. Safe Travels 😉🇺🇸
Yes! I just made a video about creative hiding spots for cash. That'll come out in a couple of weeks once I get it ready. Stay tune!
American Express Travelers Checks?! Is that still a thing? Do people still use Travelers Checks?
@@travisadams4470 I"m honestly not sure! They were referring to not having traveled for a while though, so I figured it was a long while ;-)
If you are carrying cash to exchange at an exchange point. (bank or currency exchange shop) then make sure your cash is as good as it can be. No ripped or torn bills, no bills with writing on them, no bills with too many folds. Some places will only take flat perfect currency to exchange. Also if you are carrying a large amount of cash, split it up and carry it in different places, not all in one place.
Great tips!
"Moving the world forward as a cashless society" will have a downside when it effects your carbon credit score. Don't think for a second this isn't about a digital panopticon on how you spend your money.
No,it DID NOT move us forward.it moved us closer to being monitored and given credit scores,and travelling will lower that score
thanks for all your videos. I have learned so much more even I have been a frequent traveler thru Europe and Asia
AWESOME! Than you - you made my day :-)
Good stuff and well worth knowing if you are traveling. I once was on a back country trip for almost a week where hygene/washing up was not part of the routine. Thought I had come down with a case of jock rot or worse until I realized it was just my cash cache reacting with sweat etc. and irritating my skin.
Oh no! ("Cash cache" - I like it, very clever use of words) :-)
@@NoraDunn Thanks for the kind words. Truly though, the advice you give out is much more realistic and to the point than anything I ever thought of. Just today I was talking with an old college buddy who was more of a world traveler than I was in the day. He was regretting the times when we could hop many places in the world with Kruger Rands in shoes and cash in other places to cover trip expenses, and not be tracked by our plastic. You could always get the best deal on a hotel room by negotiating the rate at the desk with a cash payment back then. Have you done a video yet on how to handle medical problems when OCONUS? Why travelers should always carry a few of their own syringes, etc.? Keep up the good videos.
I just have a special pouch (sort of like a concealed carry pouch, but not actually one of those) that I carry important stuff in that sits on the inside of my panets and is attached to my belt, so someone can't pull it away as I will be able to tell and they would literally have to, well, put their hands down my pants to get it. When I need something I just reach down into the pouch and pull out what I need. I actually thought about getting a fake wallet and putting a snarky note in it and keeping it in my back pocket just for laughs if someone tries to pickpocket me.
I will say the inside pouch thing can be annoying a bit at times, particularly if I'm wearing tigher clothing which is why I might be more inclined to wear looser clothing with a belt so it doesn't cause a problem, but I've found this to be the best (aside from maybe a money belt, but this is concealed and it would takes someone a bit of effort to get to it and I would know).
Other tips might be to NOT use ATMs and only carry the necessary things with you (DL, one or two credit cards maybe, and some cash, and if you must, your passport -- although nowadays I just carry a copy of my passport in my inside pocket). If I need my real passport I'd rather be slightly inconvenienced with ahving to go get it and go to a police station or something, than have it stolen (plus if your passport gets stolen, getting home can be a challenge to, if they steel the photo copy, not a big deal).
Thanks for sharing your strategy!
I like that wallet, way smaller than my bill fold that I carry around daily in the US. Thanks for linking it on where to buy
No problem! Enjoy - it's a great wallet.
I get significant cash discounts at small businesses here in Australia. 10% is a lot. With cash on me I know how much I have to spend. I never know the balance on my cards as I refuse to put any banking on my tracking device.
Asking for cash discounts is an excellent strategy.
@@NoraDunn I did not ask for the discounts. The 2 retailers offered me the discount when they saw I was paying with cash. Our local bakery states that paying with cash is free as the baker charges a fee for using cards. One of my retailers stated he pays 700 a month to accept cards. That is just 1 small retailer. Imagine what the big boys pay in card fees. Those fees will skyrocket with a digital currency, as choice will not be allowed.
The discounts are another great little perk of paying with cash. Indeed, cash is KING. In a cashless society, we will ALL be worse off.
Nora. We don’t need the animation. You are lovely and smart. Just be yourself.
Okay thank you for your feedback, again.
I used to live in the UAE in the Arabian Gulf. I visited friends in Texas and found I'd have to fly to New York to change my UAE currency into American dollars.
The UAE's currency is linked to the US dollar. Large countries like the USA can be surprisingly parochial and conservative. I never had this problem in Europe or Asia.
How do you keep this when swimming or snorkeling for example? Thanks
Great question! I struggle with going swimming (eg: at the beach) while solo. Some people have lockable bags that they can lock to a fixed object. Some bury their cash/valuables in the sand. And some just say within eye-shot of their valuables.
She is definitely 'pro credit cards', probably works for a credit card company so her advice is useless and biased.
@@Carolinapetroska In fact I don't work for a credit card company, so your comment is useless and biased.
I bought a waterproof neck pouch that worked great - I put my iphone, electronic car key, wallet in side. I also have a waterproof crossbody for swimming in case the neck pouch gets annoying
@@camiller4916 Great strategy!
I travel all the time with a wallet that has a front & back zipper, with a carabiner attached to it so that it’s always in my pocket and no chance of pickpockets getting their hands on it. They would end up with both my wallet & I in their home as well. Lesson learned from previous bad pickpocket experiences.
I once had a wallet with a small lanyard and a carabiner, which I loved! The challenge was that I didn't always have pockets and/or beltloops.
I got stolen from in Panama 🇵🇦 and the one credit card in small wallet I had left I put in my sock covered by the tongue of the shoe. I had to take it out airport security to get on plane out. Panama City to Miami flight some guy was fiddling w/ my shoe trying to pick pocket my sock while I was sitting.
Hi Nora. You showed your use of the great ultra-thin wallet and a bag? like over the shoulder. I haven't seen any other comments about that so thought I would throw it out there.
Hey Ken,
Do you mean the Anti-theft tech crossbody bag? bit.ly/3QBrKKv
Where do you put your valuables if you go to the beach when you're in accomodations without safes
It's a challenge. I won't bring valuables to the beach if I"m on my own. And I'll lock my valuables in my luggage if there's no safe.
Do you keep all your money with you at all times while traveling or leave them in the residence your are staying whether it’s a hotel or air bnb etc. thanks
I usually keep cash in a few different places, including my accommodation, yes.
You need cash at times. I always remove a small amount at the end of the day, to my outer bag to use the next day, rather than pulling amounts out when your out and about. Easily managed.
Great strategy, Letitia!
Cash can save you from a giant headache. Years ago I blundered badly and found myself in a little Greek village totally broke. This was before credit cards were common, so most of my money was in travelers checks. No one wanted those. Too risky. I pulled out a $20 bill. No dice. This was during the Carter years and the dollar was way down. Then I pulled out some German marks. The money changer's eyes lit up. He was happy to take those. Why German abandoned their marvelous currency for the Euro is beyond me. My suggestion to not only take cash, but to have cash in various currencies just in case banks start crashing-as indeed they are as I write this.
Thanks for sharing, Michael!
I went to the Netherlands recently. It's card everywhere. A few places will also take cash, but they prefer card. I never used cash once; not even to use the gents.
I use a card whenever and wherever possible. Good to know it's possible in the Netherlands!
We have to fight to keep our cash. I boycott all establishments that ban cash. So they lose business for their stupidity.
My Amazon iPhone case has a clip door at the back that holds my drivers license, insurance card, Costco credit card, and a couple bills. Done
Nice!
I will definitely make a mental note. Thanks again!😊
Don’t go to Japan where most stores don’t accept credit or debit cards or anything other than Japanese Yen.
Really? I didn't realize that was the case in Japan. I would have thought everybody would accept credit cards, though I do have some memory of some vending machines not accepting foreign credit cards when I was there.
I also carry several copies of my passport on any international trip, with them being kept in different areas of my belongings!!!!
Yes! Diversification is key.
Once, before going on vacation, I hid my jewelry in my house. I forgot where I put it and didn’t find it for 3 months. Now, when I hide anything, I send myself an email message as a reminder.
Ha - great idea!
I did the same thing. Lol and went into a panic.
Rule 5- avoid getting creative putting things away.
Rule 6- leave a note in the old hiding place telling you where the new hiding place is.
Thanks, this video is very helpful and informative. 😊😍
I store all my credit card phone numbers on my cell phone. If my wallet is stolen then I can quickly call the credit card vendors to report it. Go into your credit card/bank settings and setup notifications when your card is being used. This way, if your credit card/s are stolen and you don't know it at least you'll get a message saying the card is being used. Also, it's a good idea to know your drivers license number and/or ss number. I store those on my phone in a coded way only I know. As far as cash. I do carry cash (usually for tips) when I travel trying not to use an atm. When I reach my destination I'll carry the minimum with me for the day and keep the other amount hidden in my hotel room. No! Not under the mattress. 😊 Just remember to get it before you check out. The small wallets are a good idea for women. However, my wife loves her purse so I can see her leaving a small wallet on a counter or table. Another thing I see with the younger women every place I travel. Leaving your cell phone sticking half way out of your back pocket. No matter how tight your pants are thieves are bolder nowadays. They won't hesitate to grab and go even in full daylight.
Great tips!
And yes, I cringe whenever I see phones hanging out of back pockets. As much a risk of loss or damage as of theft!
Great tips!
And yes, I cringe whenever I see phones hanging out of back pockets. As much a risk of loss or damage as of theft!
Lol so you go swimming with your phone ?
I have a similar wallet, but from another company. I think it's a basic template that a lot of different companies use cos I've seen cheap versions (which i have... lol) and more expensive ones that are all essentially the same design, albeit a few differences like some have an opening where your most used card goes that enables you to push it out for access more easily. I also got the one with an Air Tag slot.
I just returned from a trip to the UK and Paris and it was really nice to be able to pay for almost everything using my phone and Apple Pay. Only time I had cash was so I could tip the guide on the food tour I went on. If it wasn't for that I would have been entirely cashless for the whole trip.
I'm increasingly cashless in everything I do, and I'm just starting to get on the Apple Pay bandwagon. It's definitely convenient to pay with a phone since we always have our phones with us anyway.
Love your videos
I love this! It was funny. Especially the part about hiding cash from yourself.😂
Ha ha - thanks!
I would be very worried about putting that little wallet thru X ray with many people in front of me. One time putting all my belongings in their basket and sending it along, third person in front of me still had his shoes on which stoped the line, Could not see my items on the other side of the X ray machine, very worried. turned out OK
The trick is to put the little wallet into a zippable pocket in my jacket which has to come off anyway to clear security. Or into my personal item bag. I would never put my wallet/phone/anything directly into the tray - that's asking for trouble!
Used to be that in Hong Kong you had to place phone separately in a tray. I think they discontinued that recently.
i wear a little bag close to my body under t shirt.
Nice!
Thank you for sharing
Well done. I like to add , when travelling , I bring some USD bills. But the paper money should be in excellent condition, no rips , no ink pen marks, or. Venders 😊will refuse to accept. And most venders will give you more exchange rate is US currency is $100 Bills. Lesser for $50 Bills ,
Great tip!
Where will you place them during TSA inspection in the airport? You can't put it on yourself while undergoing x-ray inspection. This is my only problem. I intend to have only carry-on luggage. All my other stuff I send them through the mail. Thank you if you can solve my dilemma.
If I am carrying cash, I will place it securely inside my personal item bag, which then goes through the x-ray.
I was told in a forum that money from Mexico can’t be folded….?
Interesting. I've never heard that. But maybe it has something to do with vendors in some places preferring crisp bills. I've folded pesos in Mexico....
How do handle having to empty your pockets, including cash, going through TSA?
I don't tend to keep a lot of stuff in my pockets - as in, pants pockets. Women's clothing is notoriously unreliable in that department, so I find it easier to have a system for carrying my stuff that doesn't rely on clothing.
That said, You could put "pocket stuff" (like cash) in a zippable jacket or vest pocket, since you need to take the jacket off anyway, and then it's all in one place and hidden from sight while going through the xray.
I hide money all over the place, so when I randomly find money that I forgot about in a book, in a pillow case, bag of frozen broccoli, that cabinet way above the frig, picture frame, tupperware...then it's usually the perfect timing for when I get hit with an extra expense.
Every time I moved, I find over $3,000 that I forgot I had. 😂
That's a tidy sum of money to find! Ha ha!
I love you necklace! Is it available somewhere online? I enjoy Your videos so much.
I got mine at a conference! I've seen similar ones on Amazon.
If you carry cash in your carry on, do you have to tell them at the T s a center at the airport
No, you don't have to tell TSA anything.
What about Rick Steves vest with inside pockets
What do you suggest when at a foreign flea market? I'm thinking some in a Velcro 'd pocket, some in a thin wallet and maybe more under my clothes in a yoga belt or bra purse...
Great strategy, Lisbeth! Yes, I'll keep some small bills in a relatively accessible pocket for purchases. But I'll keep other bills elsewhere, in case my pocket-stash gets raided (by me or somebody else - ha ha)
The wallet you showed wouldn’t last 2 weeks. Returned it immediately after receiving it.
Wow! I've had mine for 4 years.
Cash is king in Asia never had money 💵 stolen from the safe in the room over 30 years 😂 !
Hi Nora, I love your videos. Thank you for your efforts. For the crossbody bag, does that count as an accessory as part of your clothes when going through tsa security and / or can you leave your cash, cards and passport in the crossover bag in your backpack while going through tsa security? I am trying to plan for my first international flight later this year.
When going through TSA, everything - EVERYTHING - needs to be removed to go through the xray, while you go through the body scanner. You can't even leave tissue in your pockets. The crossbody bag will need to go through the xray. You can put it inside your backpack if you like though.
Where can I purchase a necklace line yours?
I got the necklace at a conference, but I think this one is the same or similar: amzn.to/3ZWaMJJ
Cash is king
In some places, yes - but decreasingly so.
I hate cards. We’ve been scammed so many times. My husband and I both got our account shut down in July and had to get new cards. It’s happened to him three times in the last few years
Oh dear!
Third world counties, cities cash, passport in money belt . Some money in wallet for daily use
Thanks for sharing, Phil!
Ok, I think I have the greatest hiding spot for my larger amounts of cash. I was carrying about $ 1,000 cash or more for a 5 day Egypt trip to watch a Red Hot Chili Peppers Concert at the Pyramids and to do tourist things. So, my strategy was to wear a pair of underwear, and a thin pair of Calvin Klein shorts over the underwear. There are 2 zipper pockets on my shorts. That is where I keep the big money. Then I wear a pair of Levis Jeans over the shorts. I put the small money (about $ 100) in the front pockets of my Levis. So, I never got pickpocketed and never worried about my cash. So, there was one time that we bought about $ 400 worth of things at a shop, and that is when I had to warn the salespeople that I had to pull down my Levis in order to get to the cash that was in my shorts. Might have had a couple strange looks and laughs, but it was all good. And it looks like I will do something like that when we visit Prague, Vienna, Rome, and Venice next week. I do have a PacSafe Metro X bag that I just bought, so I will use that too for the small stuff.
Ha ha - clever!
I miss travler checks too
Not enough for coins.
And what about your passport? Receipts?
Great to be that minimalist, but not practical for me.
Low value bills outside, yes! I do that.
I do stash separately.
Could you go through TSA with money belt on you ? Or u need to put it in the gray bin ? Thank you ,
No, it needs to go in the bin.
Thank you , I love watching your videos.
So what do you use when you are traveling into a country where they will not take folded U.S.A. cash in a bank or an exchange booth. Cash must be new and not folded. Thailand and the Philippines require this. How can you transport it on your person, not folded ? I'm not a traveler so I would be afraid to have it in a carry on. I'm planning on my first trip to Philippines in the fall.
Honestly, I rarely if ever travel with cash; instead I use local ATMs. They get you a better exchange rate (more on that here: ua-cam.com/video/h34rK_SZZaw/v-deo.html ).
But if you want to carry cash that is not folded, you can carry it in a money belt that you wear underneath your clothing.
@@NoraDunn Thank you. I think you are right about not bringing much cash. I am thinking about a Charles Schawb account. They will refund any ATM fees charged to you from anywhere you travel. Maybe you have checked this out ? Again, thank you for your help. I've never been off the east coast of the U.S. I'm a dumb traveler.
@@rickmoody6984 What an exciting travel adventure you have coming up! You're not a dumb traveler - you're just not experienced...but you're doing the right thing by watching channels like mine! ;-)
Nora, some countries are US CASH , almost exclusively so lets not be dead against it. Some of us have to deal w it, especially women safely. SAFELY. Ecuador is US cash. Very few places credit or debit cards work. ATM's are scary.
Great points. It depends on where you go. In places like Ecuador where US dollars are the traded currency, it's one thing. But that's actually the case in relatively few countries; most have their own currencies.
As for ATMs, I don't find them scary - but there are certain things to know: ua-cam.com/video/q72eRD0yaAc/v-deo.htmlsi=cEBX5zEpNje3_9w2
On a body belt in my underwear will tsi make me remove it ?
Yes. If you go through the body scanner it will get picked up and then they'll have you remove it and put it through the x-ray.
Only one-day worth spending in easy access cash, so if stolen, the whole travel is not finished.
Great tip Yvette!
Question, please -and GREAT videos, btw.
Can't wear a money belt under the shirt through Security because it will set off the magnetometer. So, it must go in the carry-on, right? And if it's less than 10K, I don't have ro explain myself, right?
Correct!
Am I required to remove gold jewelry during airport security check?
No, you'll usually be fine with your jewelry. It's only chunkier and/or metal pieces that can be problematic.
@@NoraDunn your videos are very helpful. Gone through TSA in about 4 minutes.
@@mrvggl Fantastic! Thank you :-)
No never !
Thank you for your videos! I'm planning a trip to Europe later this year and would like to know your recommendation for an international prepaid ATM card to use. I would like to avoid taking my American Bank Debit card to Europe to avoid potential loss or it being stolen. I have looked at videos on Resolut and Wize and would like to know if you have experience using these types of cards or have another recommendation? Thanks in advance.
Great question! I think Revolut and Wise could be good options - to be honest I don't think of them as prepaid ATM cards (I think of them as online banks), but they are indeed good ways to convert currency and pay for things abroad while also limiting exposure to your main accounts.
In your research, I suggest you read the fine print and look for things like:
1) How much does it cost to withdraw money from ATMs
2) What are their currency conversion charges
3) What are the account fees in general
Revolut in particular is quite popular in Europe, so maybe they have favourable fees in that regard.
Good luck with your research, and please let us know what you decided on here!
@@NoraDunn I use Wise
If taking cash to another country, pay very close attention to their rules for declaration to customs.
Also pay very close attention as to what you can and cannot take into another country or the items/items could be confiscated and you being fined or worse and the items destroyed. Example; taking unauthorized meat products into Canada is an $800 fine.
Great tip!!
How much UK Sterling can I take into the Phillipines ?
Hi, I have so much religious Crucifixes, Blessed Medals, etc., I carry with Me in my personal purse. At TSA do I have to take it out from my purse and put it on the bin together with my cash (I put it inside an envelope)?
Thanks for the helpful tips.
Just leave it all in your purse! No problem. The only stuff you need to take out of your bags are liquids and laptops (basically).
@NoraDunn Thank you so much for easing my problem. I worry about my cash they might try to steal it in my purse. How about religious books, my daily Missal and other prayer books. I pray they will ignore them.
Thanks, Nora. I learned a lot from you.
God bless you ❤
I hate carrying cash. Unfortunately, some countries really rip you off on the exchange rate when you use a credit card...sometimes 40% of your value is lost in parts of Europe in 2023. It's a shame this happens.
40%??? No! Where does that happen?
@@NoraDunn Ukraine, 26 hryvnias to the dollar on a credit card, over 40 hryvnias if you bring dollars and exchange it
@@The_Savage_Wombat WOW! Good to know.
You need to carry the right credit cards to avoid foreign transaction fees, and conversion fees. I suggest you to use Amazon credit card to pay for everything. You will be paid at Visa rate which is the same as current foreign exchange market rate. You can use an application to get an idea of how much they should charge you.
@@dashwoo706 Great tip - thanks!
Show me the money! Good tips Nora. Thanks
Thanks John!
Use that carry bag as a decoy.....If they rob it? They get NOTHING 😅
I NEVER use credit cards when I travel. Never. If it’s hacked, I’m screwed. And it’s hacked a lot. Come on adults. Carry a good crossbody and use your head. If you get pickpocketed, you shouldn’t still be traveling.
If your credit card is hacked, you aren't liable for the fraudulent charges. In fact, I'd argue that a credit card is the safest way to go; cash can be lost or stolen with no recourse; hacked debit cards can result in drained bank accounts. A hacked credit card is little more than a hassle. Just make sure you also have a backup credit card stashed in a separate place.
In addition to not using cash, I also don’t like using a debit card. Like cash, when your money is gone, it’s gone from your account and difficult to get back. I carry little cash, especially for toilets, but mostly credit cards.
I agree, 100%