RFID Protected Wallets for Men
I know we can all relate to busy airports, where you are looking after your passport, mobile phone, hand luggage etc. You feel someone brush against you and wonder if someone is trying to pick your pockets. Physical pickpocketing remains a concern for people and especially when travelling. A more discrete threat is now common place, known as electronic pickpocketing. Thieves equipped with RFID scanners can quickly steal your credit card information without you even knowing it.
Some travelers may be familiar with the dangers of RFID fraud. There are ways of protecting yourself against that, and an RFID protected wallet, designed for travel is one of those methods.
What are FRID wallets?
A RFID wallet, designed for travel, is a simple effective solution. RFID stands for radio frequency identification. RFID is a form of an electronic tag, which is either attached or implanted into an item, such as a debit card, credit card or passport. That means the details can be quickly read using radio waves. It is a faster and more convenient method, but open to electronic thieves. An RFID wallet has a special lining that blocks this signal, and that prevents unauthorised access to your personal and financial information.
Why RFID Wallets are Important?
RFID came to the fore with the introduction of contactless payments. The banks started to issue cards that can be tapped on top of payment machines, without needing to insert them and key in your pin number. People are quite rightly concerned about their cards and passports being read by attackers intent on gathering their information, and committing fraud. By using a simple cheap scanner, a thief can steal your card details from a distance in crowded areas like airports, train stations, or even on public transport. This stolen information can then be used to make fraudulent purchases online or even to create counterfeit cards.
That is why manufacturers came up with the idea of RFID protected wallets, passport cases and card holders. These work by having a metallic material in them that simply block the radio waves from scanners.
We all enjoy travelling or going on a holiday. The prospect of losing your valuables or becoming a victim of theft can cast a shadow over your trip. RFID wallets offer peace of mind. You can visit bustling marketplaces, enjoy street food, or simply relax at a cafe, knowing your essentials are protected from unauthorised scans.
You wouldn't travel with an unlocked suitcase, so I believe that protecting your wallet is an essential part of travel security. RFID wallets complement other luggage security measures you might already take, like TSA-approved locks, for the best way to safeguard your belongings on the go.
Selection Criteria
Material
For frequent travellers especially, a durable material like leather or high-grade nylon is really important. Consider wallets that can withstand daily wear and tear, potential bumps and scrapes, and exposure to different weather conditions. The material should also be able to handle unexpected spills or light rain showers. That's why leather with a water-resistant finish or a weatherproof nylon are good options.
Size & Weight
Most airlines have really strict carry-on luggage restrictions. Therefore a slim and lightweight wallet that doesn't add bulk is the best choice. Consider a basic design or a bifold wallet that fits comfortably in your pocket. A bulky wallet can be uncomfortable, and an obvious target for thieves. Choose a size that comfortably fits in your pocket without creating an awkward bulge.
Organisation & Capacity
- Slots - Make sure there are enough dedicated slots for your essential cards (credit/debit cards, any ID cards, travel insurance card etc.). Some wallets will also offer additional slots for loyalty cards or business cards.
- Compartments - It is worth considering a wallet with separate compartments for cash, receipts, or travel documents like boarding passes. This helps keep things organised and easy to access quickly. A built-in pocket for your most frequently used card (e.g., credit card) can be a convenient feature for travellers.
Quality & Durability
Look for wallets with proper stitching and reinforced seams. Wallets with YKK zippers are much better for their reliability, especially if you choose a wallet with a coin pouch. As mentioned earlier, material plays a significant role in durability, so consider wallets made from high-quality leather or tear-resistant nylon.
Style
The style of the wallet you prefer is always a personal choice. Bifolds, trifolds, or minimalist cardholders are all popular options. Choose a design that complements your personal style. While this is important, prioritise functionality for travel. Go for a design that offers easy access to your essentials and keeps them organised.
Top Picks: Your Perfect Travel Companion
No 1. TEEHON® Wallets Mens RFID Wallet
This is a very fashionable wallet and has 7 credit card slots, 2 sections for paper money, a coin pocket and an ID window.
The surface of the wallet has a metal RFID blocking material that blocks potential hackers.
It will not block the signal which some Hotel Room Cards as they operate at 125 KHz.
It measures 12.5 x 10 cms and is classed as a big wallet (almost square)
Buyers say the wallet is very well made, soft and stylish. It is a large wallet so plenty of room inside and the RFID works really well.
The one thing to be aware of is that some buyers bought this and didn't realise it was bigger than they had thought.
Check Amazon UK. Average Price £10
No 2. The Ridge RFID Wallet
This one is expensive but made from military grade materials and guaranteed to last a lifetime
The credit cards inside your wallet are surrounded by the metal body of this slim wallet and protects them from even the most powerful RFID Chip Readers.
Holds up to 12 credit cards and also has a cash strap for notes
It measures 19.69 x 7.62 x 1.27 cms
The reason this wallet is more expensive is that the Ridge company deliver 100% RFID protection and they offer a lifetime warranty on the functionality of the wallet.
Check Amazon UK. Average Price £90
No 3. RFID Blocking Men's Designer Buono Pelle Leather Wallet
This one comes boxed and will make a nice gift. It has a coin pocket, 2 note pockets and can hold 7 credit cards.
It comes in various black patterns and there is a tan option.
It measures 11.5 x 9.3 cms and is made from genuine soft leather.
We think it makes a classy gift for a man, and has the added advantage of protecting people from fraudsters.
Check Amazon UK. Average Price £9
No 5. POWR Mens Wallet Slim RFID Blocking
This is a slim aluminium credit card holder, and is a very popular choice with many buyers who travel a lot.
It comes in a variety of colours, black, carbon, brown, orange, grey etc
This wallet uses dual-layer RFID blocking technology
It has a quick access ID window and can hold up to 7 credit cards and a side pocket for bank notes.
Check Amazon UK. Average Price £10
No 6. BULL GUARD Mens RFID Blocking Bifold Wallet
This RFID wallet is available in a wide range of colours so you will be able to find a colour that you prefer
It is made from genuine cow leather and has an ID window, 11 credit card slots, 3 easy-access card slots with thumb access, 2-pocket money divider, 2 slip-in-pockets.
UK buyers say this is very well made and really does look the part, they also mentioned like all leather it will start to get softer over time and use.
Check Amazon UK. Average Price £27
No 7. - DONBOLSO Wallet NextGen
This RFID wallet is available in 5 colour options that include black grained Nappa, black Nappa, black vintage, carbon fibre leather and brown vintage
It is a trifold wallet with a coin pocket
This is a small thin wallet that is bang on trend as it is slim and classy looking
It as 7 card slots, note compartment and a hard coin pocket
Perfect for those who don't want a bulky wallet.
Check Amazon UK. Average Price £15
There are any number of these RFID wallets available on the UK market, and they are becoming more and more popular. We have picked out some of the best shown above, at what we think are affordable and sensible prices.
