Wherever you travel today, you can be at the mercy of pickpockets. They can always be found wherever tourists congregate. Actually anywhere there's large group of people, there are most probably pickpockets. Often they will work in groups of two or three, catching you completely off guard. They are also quite good at their craft, because the subject of the pickpocket is usually not aware of the act until much later. It's not until you actually look for your money or your passport or your airline ticket that you realize you have been the victim.

Because of the alarming growth of the pickpocket industry, manufacturers have been creating a practical assortment of money belts or wallets that can be worn and concealed. They are a great solution or remedy for this problem, and they are made in a large array of styles and choices.

These money belts or travel wallets are available in many different fabrics. Some are in cotton for comfort. Others are constructed in the thinnest of fabrics such as nylon or silk for their ease in concealing. They can be worn around the neck, around the shoulder or around the waist. The styles made for around the waist can be worn in the small or your back, or around front. Straps are adjustable and/or elastic for ease and comfort. Many have a softer fabric lining that is worn against the body. Waist style money belts can be thin with one Velcro pocket or zippered with several compartments. Models worn around the shoulder similar to a holster can be worn between your jacket and shirt, or against your body. Neck models are adjustable to wear up high, or long enough to tuck into your waistband. Other models are designed to be looped around the belt you wear. They are then turned in under your slacks, held by the loop or clip. There are even models made to wear around your ankle. One inventive company makes a travel sock with a zippered pocket in the top. These socks are available in sizes for men or women and in a variety of colors.

There are also regular men's belts with hidden zippers on the underside. These zippered pockets are large enough to fold money along most of the belt. They are available in leather or fabric. All of these travel wallets are designed to hold important documents and your money for your future use. You should always have the money you'll need currently in your pocket or carry bag. You certainly don't want to be "undressing" to get to your concealed money in front of anyone or calling attention to the fact that you are wearing a money belt.

All of these products are created to make travel easier and safer. We all know that money and passports can be replaced but travel should be hassle-free, and these products are certainly a useful deterrent.

Maxine Greco
www.villageluggageandgifts.com