The 5 Best RFID-Blocking Wallets for Security, Function, and Style

"Hearst Magazines and Yahoo may earn commission or revenue on some items through these links."

We put cameras on our front doors and maybe even have one inside to watch what our pets are doing while we're away, but it's not because we're paranoid—it's because security gives us peace of mind. The same goes for protecting your money, even in digital form. RFID-blocking wallets protect your banking information from being scanned and stolen via the chips on your credit cards, and while your bank likely has your back if this happens, an RFID-blocking wallet is an easy extra step of security. Plus, nobody wants to be mid-travel when they realize their card's been locked due to suspicious activity.

RFID—or radio frequency identification—theft is a rare occurrence, but it happens in high traffic areas despite the fact that it's easily preventable. RFID-blocking technology is essentially a fabric material that blocks scanners from transmitting nefarious frequencies through your wallet to your cards.

Some wallets have blocking technology built into just one pocket, but others have an entire exterior made with it to ensure you have nothing to worry about. There are plenty of options to choose from when searching for a wallet to hold your daily necessities and giving you that little extra layer of protection and peace of mind.

What to Consider

Materials

RFID-blocking wallets don't just come in metal or techie synthetics—the blocking technology can be built into leather, nylon ripstop, and other fabrics, meaning you can find one to fit your style. Wallets made from leather and fabrics have card slots that stretch over time, making it easier to get your cards out, but also may result in accidentally pulling all of your cards out when you're just trying to reach for one.

Metal options are great because they maintain their grip on your cards over time and stand up to daily wear and tear without ripping or getting scratched, but they typically have limited storage space. A synthetic like nylon ripstop maintains its shape longer than leather, but may have too casual a look for some people's taste.

Storage

The capacity of your wallet should match what you want to carry daily. Some people like to keep it super slim to hold in their front pocket and therefore can do without carrying cash or excess cards, but others may want room for extra bills—they should opt for a cash-carrying option like a money clip or bi-fold. If you're carrying multiple cards, three slots probably won't cover your needs, so look for a wallet that has more card slots and consider one that won't expand over time due to stuffing a bunch in there.

How We Selected

In order to narrow down the huge pool of RFID-blocking wallets, we considered what's in our own pockets and thought about what you need for a daily carry. We sifted through products with styles ranging from tactical to traditional as well as contemporary options with unique designs and features. After gathering our lists we checked out user reviews from both customers and publications like Esquire and Travel + Leisure to ensure the quality and durability of our picks. We found wallets that adhere to different needs and styles to suit varying personal tastes and price points. Here are our top picks for RFID-blocking wallets.

Minimalist Slim RFID Wallet

This sleek wallet is made from aerospace aluminum and has an expandable slot to hold up to 12 cards plus cash. It’s minimalist without being limiting, and the slot doesn’t stretch over time like leather or fabric wallets can, so you know your cards will stay secure.

The elastic cash strap on one side and money clip on the other give you ample space for bills and anything else you want easily accessible. Its slim design lets you carry it in your front pocket and the aluminum material is scratch-resistant so it’ll hold up to daily wear and tear.

Hide & Seek RFID-Blocking Wallet

This traditional bi-fold wallet comes with RFID protection without looking tactical, using a classic leather construction with a slim silhouette. It has four card slots and a hidden bill pocket for your emergency cash.

It's slim enough to be kept in your front pocket, but offers more storage than the card-case style wallet you see in a lot of RFID options. The contrast color interior is a nice touch and adds to the classic elegance of the tried-and-true bi-fold.

Saddle Leather Front Pocket Wallet with RFID Blocking

With the simple ruggedness you expect from a workwear brand plus the practicality of RFID protection, Carhartt’s wallet is made of full-grain leather and cut to fit comfortably in your front pocket, even when you kneel down. It has an elastic cash strap to stow away bills and a card pull-tab in its top slot, making your plastic more accessible.

It’ll take some time for the card slots to stretch out, so it may be hard to pull cards out at first, but does get easier after the leather breaks in.

Charlie RFID Wallet

This compact wallet keeps things simple but sorted. The exterior pockets allow you to tap your cards with out pulling them out, but the center interior pocket has RFID protection. It's great for traveling light or for those looking to slim down their bulky pockets. This color option has a reflective orange strap so you can easily spot it if it's misplaced at night.

Original 2.0 Slim Metal Wallet

Gearheads and everyday carry enthusiasts will appreciate the design and functionality of this aluminum RFID wallet. It has a money clip for cash, an integrated bottle-opener and pry bar, and can hold up to ten cards.

The paracord lanyard makes it easier to pull out of your pocket and an I.D. window lets you access your license or frequently used cards you need to tap. Note that in order to utilize the RFID protection, make sure the chips of your cards are not showing through the I.D. window.

The aluminum and stainless steel composition makes this wallet super durable and multiple user reviews say the wallet holds up after several years, though the paracord lanyard may fray after some time.

Flip Case RFID-Blocking Wallet

This hard-shell wallet keeps contents secured with a magnetic closure and has two interior pockets to stay organized. It can hold up to eight cards and a bit of folded cash.

Its standout feature is the magnetic trap door closure that easily open up to access whatever you need and close just as easily so you know everything is enclosed and secured. It's like a modern zippered wallet without the bulk and hassle of having to open and close a zipper, which can snag and break.

RFID-Blocking Leather Passport Holder

Sleek and practical to cover all travel necessities, this passport holder keeps contents protected and organized without any extra bulk. It has four card slots and two slip pockets for your passport and cash, and has a classic travel wallet style for the traditionalists that still want RFID protection.

The top-grain leather construction is softer than full-grain, so you'll have no issues with card slots being too tight.

You Might Also Like

• The Do’s and Don’ts of Using Painter’s Tape

• The Best Portable BBQ Grills for Cooking Anywhere

• Can a Smart Watch Prolong Your Life?