Grayson West
Before you hit the skies, it’s time to declutter your wallet. You’d be surprised how much stuff in there you don’t actually need for your trip—and some things could even cause more hassle than help, especially if your wallet is stolen or misplaced. Let’s trim down your wallet with these 15 things.
Social Security Card
A Social Security card is a golden ticket for identity thieves. Keep it locked up and out of reach at home. If you absolutely need the number, memorize it or store it securely in an encrypted mobile password manager.
Driver’s License
Pickpockets are everywhere. For international trips, a passport is the go-to ID. Stash that license in the hotel safe or set it aside in a sock drawer at home.
Birth Certificate
A birth certificate is a key to our identity kingdom, and misplacing it abroad is a fast track to a “stress” city. Passports are more than enough if you are asked for proof of citizenship.
Physical Password List
Remembering a gazillion passwords is tough. But that little cheat sheet in your wallet? If the wallet falls into the wrong hands, you’ve just given them an all-access pass to your digital life.
Excess Cash
It’s a high risk if you walk around with a wad of bills. Pocket just enough cash for immediate needs and emergencies. Use ATMs as needed and keep the rest secure in the hotel deposit box.
Unprotected Phone
Although phones aren’t technically in our wallets, they’re practically joined at the hip. Use a long and unique password, enable two-factor authentication, and consider a VPN for public Wi-Fi.
Multiple Credit Cards
Choose one or two cards for the trip and stow the rest in the house. If disaster strikes, you’ll have fewer cards to cancel and replace. This strategy helps you curb those impulse purchases, too!
Corporate Credit Card
Put corporate cards in an office drawer unless you’re mixing business with pleasure (which we don’t recommend). Accidentally using it for personal expenses can lead to awkward HR conversations and a mountain of paperwork.
Passport
Passports are our tickets to international adventures, but for domestic trips, it’s overkill. Dropping it on a weekend getaway to Vegas could derail upcoming global escapades. For domestic travel, stick to driver’s licenses or state IDs.
Checkbook
These days, checks are about as relevant as a floppy disk. Carrying a checkbook during a trip is a dead weight and a potential security risk. If you lose it, you’re handing over account details and signatures to potential fraudsters.
Debit Card
A debit card is a direct line to one’s hard-earned bank account, making it a prime target for thieves. If compromised, actual money, not just credit, is at stake. Use a credit card instead.
Membership Cards
Those bulky membership IDs can stay home except if you plan to hit the gym in Tokyo or shop at a local grocery store in Paris. These add unnecessary bulk to the wallet and aren’t useful overseas.
Receipts
A wallet isn’t a filing cabinet, especially when you’re on the go. Old receipts and random paperwork create clutter and confusion, so clear it out before you travel.
Small Jewelry
That lucky ring or pair of earrings might seem out of harm’s way in a wallet, but they’re easy to lose and can even damage cards. Hide them in a suitcase or, better yet, leave valuable pieces at home.
House Keys
Imagine losing your wallet abroad only to realize the house keys were inside. Separate these items, and if you’re worried about home security while traveling, try smart locks or leave a spare with a lovely neighbor or family member.