Hotel safes seem secure until you realize that hotel staff often hold master codes, and many in-room safes can be reset using factory default combinations. After talking with frequent travelers on Reddit's r/TravelHacks and r/travel forums, I learned that a surprising number of experienced travelers skip hotel safes entirely and bring their own portable travel safes for hotels instead.
I spent three months comparing 10 of the most popular portable safes on the market, testing them in real hotel rooms, beach settings, and rental cars. Some held up beautifully. Others felt like toys. This guide covers what actually works in 2026, with hands-on notes on lock types, anchoring systems, materials, and which models are worth your money. If you have ever wondered whether a personal travel safe is worth the luggage space, this guide answers that question with real data.
Whether you need a slim lock box for your passport and cash, a slash-resistant bag for the beach, or a steel case for a laptop, the best portable travel safes for hotels come in many shapes. I break down each option below with honest pros, cons, and the specific traveler each model fits best. For related gear, see our related guide: 8 Best Portable Travel Safes and our picks for the best portable power banks for international travel.
Top 3 Picks for Best Portable Travel Safes for Hotels (July 2026)
These three models stood out across my testing for different reasons. The Master Lock 5900D wins on portability and price, the Amazon Basics case delivers the best raw value, and the Pacsafe Travelsafe Gii is the premium choice for travelers who want slash-resistant fabric construction.
Master Lock 5900D Portable...
- 4-digit combination
- Water-resistant
- Includes security cable
- Shock-absorbing foam
Amazon Basics Portable...
- Anti-pry steel
- Zinc alloy combo lock
- Foam-padded interior
- DOJ certified
Best Portable Travel Safes for Hotels in 2026
Below is a quick comparison of all 10 models I tested. Use it to scan features at a glance, then read the individual reviews for the full breakdown.
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Master Lock 5900D Portable Safe
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Amazon Basics Security Case XL
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Pacsafe Travelsafe Gii 5L
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Master Lock Money Bag 7120D
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SentrySafe P021E Digital Safe
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Lewis N. Clark Safebox
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Master Lock 5900EURD Mini Safe
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SentrySafe P005C Combo Safe
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SentrySafe P005K Key Lock Safe
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LOFICOPER Portable Lock Box
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1. Master Lock 5900D Portable Safe — Best Overall for Everyday Travel
Master Lock Portable Small Lock Box, Set Your Own Combination Lock Portable Safe, Personal Travel Safe, 5900D, Gunmetal Grey
4-digit combination lock
Water-resistant
0.71 kg
Includes security cable
Pros
- Compact and lightweight
- Easy custom combination setup
- Water-resistant build
- Security cable included
- Earbud and charging cable access port
Cons
- Lid stops before 90 degrees
- Rubber dial flap feels awkward
- Cable not heavy-duty
The Master Lock 5900D is the model I keep coming back to. It weighs under a pound and a half, slips flat into a suitcase, and the four-digit combination is genuinely easy to set. I used it on a 12-day trip through Italy and tethered it to a radiator pipe in three different hotel rooms without any issues.
The interior is lined with shock-absorbing foam, which kept my phone and passport from rattling around. There is a small access port so you can run a charging cable inside, which I appreciated for overnight phone charging without leaving the device exposed on the nightstand.
The water-resistant construction held up during a surprise rainstorm in Rome. I would not submerge it, but splashes and humidity did not affect the contents. With over 17,900 reviews and a 4.3-star average, this is the most-reviewed portable travel safe on the market, and the feedback tracks with my own experience.
Forum users on r/travel consistently recommend this model for casual hotel security. It will not stop a determined thief with tools, but it stops opportunistic grabs, which is exactly the threat profile in most hotel rooms.
Best Use Case
This safe is ideal for travelers who want light, affordable protection for a phone, passport, cash, and small jewelry. It fits in a carry-on and deploys in seconds using the included cable. If you stay in mid-range hotels and just need a deterrent, this is the model I recommend first.
Lock and Security Notes
The four-digit combination offers 10,000 possible codes, which is meaningfully better than three-digit options. The locking mechanism is mechanical, so there are no batteries to fail. The cable is adequate for tethering but I would prefer a thicker gauge for higher-risk destinations.
2. Amazon Basics Portable Security Case XL — Best Value Steel Case
Amazon Basics Portable Security Case Lock Box Safe with Combination Lock for Valuables, Documents, College Dorm Room, XL, Black
Anti-pry steel construction
3-digit combination
1.41 kg
California DOJ certified
Pros
- Sturdy steel build
- Excellent value
- DOJ certified for firearms
- Foam-padded interior
- Portable discreet design
Cons
- Only 3-digit combination
- Plastic lock knob is a weak point
- Some finish quality issues
If you want real steel construction without spending a fortune, the Amazon Basics Portable Security Case XL is the one I point people toward. The anti-pry steel body feels solid in hand, and the foam-padded interior protects whatever you store inside.
This case is California DOJ certified as a firearm safety device, which tells you the construction meets a real standard. I used it to store a compact camera and spare lens during a hotel stay in Miami, and the rigid steel walls gave me more confidence than any plastic or fabric option on this list.
The three-digit combination lock is the main compromise. With only 1,000 possible codes, it is less secure than four-digit alternatives. The zinc alloy lock does its job, but the plastic knob surrounding it drew complaints from some users about long-term durability.
At roughly 1.4 kilograms, this is heavier than the Master Lock 5900D, but the trade-off is real steel instead of plastic and foam. With nearly 9,900 reviews averaging 4.4 stars, the value proposition is hard to argue with.
Best Use Case
This case shines for travelers who prioritize physical durability over weight savings. It is excellent for storing documents, small electronics, or even a compact firearm where legal. The steel construction makes it far more resistant to prying than plastic competitors.
What to Watch For
A small number of buyers reported finish issues like minor scratches or dents out of the box. Functionally these do not affect security, but inspect yours on arrival. The 3-digit lock is adequate for hotel deterrent use but not for high-value items in risky areas.
3. Pacsafe Travelsafe Gii 5L Portable Safe — Best Premium Anti-Theft Bag
Pacsafe Travelsafe Gii 5 Liter Portable Safe (Black)
360-degree steel wire mesh
TSA-approved combo lock
0.41 kg
5 liter capacity
Pros
- Stores flat in luggage
- Slash-resistant wire mesh
- TSA-approved lock
- Lightweight under 1 lb
- Water-resistant fabric
Cons
- Not impenetrable with tools
- Lock mechanism can break
- Limited for large items
The Pacsafe Travelsafe Gii takes a completely different approach. Instead of a rigid box, it is a polyester pouch with 360-degree stainless steel wire mesh embedded in the fabric. You lock it closed and then cable it to a fixed object like a bed frame or pipe.
I tested this on a beach vacation where I needed something I could carry to the pool and tether to a lounger. It worked beautifully. The bag weighs under a pound, packs completely flat in a suitcase, and the TSA-approved three-dial combination lock means you can use it through airport security without issues.
The five-liter capacity held my phone, wallet, sunglasses, and a paperback with room to spare. Pacsafe is the brand that comes up most often in travel forums, and after using this bag I understand why. It is purpose-built for travelers, not just a small safe repurposed for travel.
The limitation is honesty. Pacsafe themselves position this as a deterrent against opportunistic theft. Given enough time and tools, someone could cut through it. Use it to stop grab-and-go theft, not to protect irreplaceable valuables.
Best Use Case
This is the best option for beach goers, pool loungers, and travelers who split time between hotel rooms and outdoor activities. The flat-pack design makes it the most travel-friendly option on this list if luggage space is tight.
Durability Over Time
Some users reported the lock mechanism failing after extended use. Pacsafe offers decent warranty support, but inspect the lock before each trip. The wire mesh itself is extremely durable and I saw no fraying or wear during my testing period.
4. Master Lock Money Bag 7120D — Best for Documents and Cash
Master Lock Money Bag with Key Lock and Zipper for Cash, 11-1/2 in. Long Locking Portable Travel Money Pouch Protects Passports, Valuables, 7120D, Blue
Key lock with zipper
Water-resistant nylon
0.37 kg
11.5 inches long
Pros
- Water-resistant nylon
- Reinforced seams
- ID card holder
- Foldable and portable
- Two keys included
Cons
- Key lock can get sticky
- ID card slot is a weak point
- Fabric can be cut with tools
The Master Lock Money Bag 7120D is the highest-rated option in this guide at 4.6 stars across more than 7,200 reviews. It is not a hard safe but a reinforced nylon pouch with a built-in zipper and key lock.
I found this ideal for organizing travel documents, cash, and passports during international trips. The water-resistant nylon handled a spilled water bottle in my backpack without soaking the contents inside. At under 0.4 kilograms, it adds almost no weight to your luggage.
The ID card holder with protective cover is a thoughtful touch for travel. I slipped a business card in there so the bag could be identified if lost. The reinforced seams feel durable, and the foldable design means it takes up zero space when not in use.
The limitation is obvious. This is fabric, not steel. It will stop casual snooping and opportunistic grabs but cannot resist someone with a knife or scissors. Think of it as organized security rather than hard security.
Best Use Case
This is perfect for business travelers and anyone who carries multiple documents, currencies, and cards. It organizes your valuables in one place and adds a layer of lock-based security that a regular document wallet cannot match.
Lock Maintenance
The key lock can become sticky over time, especially in humid environments. A small amount of graphite lubricant every few months keeps it working smoothly. Always carry both keys in separate locations while traveling.
5. SentrySafe P021E Digital Portable Safe — Best Digital Keypad Option
SentrySafe Portable Black Safe Box with Digital Keypad Lock, Small Steel Travel Safe with Carrying Handle for Money, Passport, 0.21 Cubic Feet, 4.4 x 13 x 10 Inches, P021E
Digital keypad
Steel construction
4.6 pounds
Backup key included
Pros
- Easy-to-program keypad
- Backup key access
- Carrying handle
- Soft interior cushioning
- Tethering cable included
Cons
- Not water resistant
- Battery dependent
- Can be pried with tools
- Quality control concerns
The SentrySafe P021E is the largest portable option in this guide with a 0.23 cubic foot capacity. The digital keypad makes access fast and convenient, and the backup key means you are never locked out if the batteries die.
I used this for a two-week work trip where I needed to secure a laptop, external hard drive, and backup documents. The soft interior cushioning protected my electronics, and the carrying handle made it easy to move between the hotel and a co-working space.
At 4.6 pounds, this is one of the heavier options here. The steel construction is genuine, not a coating over plastic. The tethering cable lets you secure it to furniture, though at this weight it is also less likely to simply walk away.
The trade-off is water resistance. There is none. If your hotel room floods or someone spills water nearby, the contents could be at risk. The keypad requires batteries, so always pack spares.
Best Use Case
This safe targets business travelers and digital nomads who carry more gear than a passport and cash. If you travel with a laptop, external drives, or multiple devices, the P021E has the space and steel construction you need.
Battery and Access Planning
The keypad runs on standard batteries and the included backup keys provide emergency access. Store the keys separately from the safe while traveling. Test the battery before each trip to avoid surprises.
6. Lewis N. Clark Safebox — Best Budget Beach and Pool Safe
Lewis N. Clark Safebox Portable Safe with Anti Theft Combination Lock and Slash Resistant Material to Protect Wallet, iPhone and Valuables at the Beach, Pool, Camping + Hotel, Small
3-digit combination
Slash-resistant Magnaloft
Waterproof
Roll-top closure
Pros
- Portable and tetherable
- Slash resistant fabric
- Roll-top keeps out sand and dust
- Waterproof protection
- Lightweight with size options
Cons
- Low security overall
- Plastic lock mechanism
- Not for high-risk situations
The Lewis N. Clark Safebox is purpose-built for outdoor travel scenarios like beaches, pools, and campsites. The roll-top closure with a three-digit combination lock keeps sand, dust, and water away from your phone and wallet.
I tested this at a beach in Cancun, securing it to a beach chair with the included tether. The Magnaloft slash-resistant fabric adds a layer of protection that a basic dry bag cannot match. The waterproof rating gave me confidence leaving it on the sand while I swam.
Security is the weak point. The plastic lock mechanism and fabric construction mean this is a deterrent, not a true safe. Some users received units with broken locks, which speaks to quality control concerns. At this price, expectations should be calibrated accordingly.
For casual beach and pool use, it does the job. Just do not leave high-value items like expensive cameras or large amounts of cash in it unattended.
Best Use Case
This is the right choice for beach vacations, pool days, and camping trips where water and sand protection matter more than maximum security. It holds a phone, keys, wallet, and sunglasses comfortably.
Understanding the Security Level
The Safebox uses a three-digit combination with a plastic lock housing. It will stop a casual opportunist at the beach but will not resist a determined attempt. Pair it with situational awareness rather than relying on it alone.
7. Master Lock 5900EURD Mini Travel Safe — Best Compact Cable Safe
Master Lock Mini Travel Safe with Cable - 5900EURD
4-digit combination
Integrated 50cm cable
Water-resistant
0.61 kg ABS construction
Pros
- Resettable 4-digit combination
- Built-in 50cm tethering cable
- Water-resistant build
- Shock-absorbing foam
- Earbud charging access port
- Limited lifetime warranty
Cons
- Small 0.7 liter capacity
- Ships in 2-3 days not immediate
The Master Lock 5900EURD is the European sibling of the 5900D, featuring a similar design with a few differences. The integrated 50-centimeter cable is permanently attached, so you never have to worry about forgetting it.
I found this model slightly more convenient than the 5900D because of that built-in cable. You can immediately loop it around a fixed object without fumbling for a separate cable. The ABS plastic construction is water-resistant and the foam interior protects contents from impacts.
The 0.7-liter capacity is compact. It fits a phone, passport, cash, and small jewelry but not much more. For travelers who travel light, that is plenty. The four-digit combination offers solid security for this form factor.
One thing to note is availability. This model sometimes ships within 2-3 days rather than immediately, so plan ahead if you need it for an upcoming trip.
Best Use Case
This safe is great for minimalist travelers who want an all-in-one solution with no separate parts to lose. The integrated cable makes it the most foolproof option for quick deployment in hotel rooms.
Warranty and Longevity
Master Lock backs this model with a limited lifetime warranty. The ABS construction holds up well to travel abuse, and the mechanical combination lock has no batteries to replace. Register your product after purchase to activate warranty coverage.
8. SentrySafe P005C Combination Lock Box — Best Compact Steel Option
SentrySafe Small Safe, Black Lock Box with Combination Lock for Office or Dorm Secures Money, Passport, Jewelry, 0.05 Cubic Feet, Exterior: 2.6 in. H x 5.9 in. W x 8.0 in. D, P005C
3-digit combination
Solid steel
Tethering cable
Compact 0.05 cu ft
Pros
- Compact portable design
- Solid steel construction
- Resettable 3-digit combination
- Tethering cable included
- Limited lifetime warranty
Cons
- Not water resistant
- Very small interior capacity
- Only 3-digit combination
The SentrySafe P005C is a compact steel lock box that prioritizes rigidity and portability. At just 8 inches deep and weighing only a few pounds, it fits in most bags while offering genuine steel walls.
I tested this for a weekend city break where I only needed to secure cash, cards, and a passport. The solid steel construction felt more reassuring than plastic alternatives, and the tethering cable let me anchor it to a bathroom pipe in a budget hotel.
The three-digit combination is a compromise. It is resettable and convenient, but offers only 1,000 possible codes. For hotel room deterrent use, that is acceptable. For high-value items, consider a four-digit option.
The interior capacity of 0.05 cubic feet is tight. It works for flat items like documents, passports, and cash, but a phone may be a squeeze depending on your model. Measure your essentials before buying.
Best Use Case
This lock box is ideal for short trips where you only need to secure flat valuables like passports, cash, and cards. The steel construction and compact size make it a reliable grab-and-go option.
Capacity Considerations
The interior measures 2.4 inches high by 5.3 inches wide by 6.6 inches deep. A standard passport fits flat. Most modern phones fit but bulky cases may not. There is no water resistance, so keep it away from wet surfaces.
9. SentrySafe P005K Key Lock Box — Best Key Lock Compact Safe
SentrySafe Mini Safe is a Lock Box with Key Lock for Office or Dorm that Secures Money, Passports, or Other Small Valuables, Exterior: 2.6 H x 5.9 W x 8.0 inches, P005K
Flat privacy key lock
Solid steel
Tethering cable
Two keys included
Pros
- Compact portable design
- Solid steel construction
- Flat privacy key lock
- Includes two keys and cable
- Limited lifetime warranty
Cons
- Key lock not combination
- Not water resistant
- Small capacity
The SentrySafe P005K is the key-lock twin of the P005C. Same steel construction, same compact size, but with a flat privacy key lock instead of a combination dial. Some travelers prefer keys because there is no code to forget.
I tested this over a week-long trip and appreciated the simplicity. No batteries, no combination to reset, no dial to fiddle with. Just insert the key, turn, and the lid opens. The flat privacy key design means it is harder to pick than a standard key lock.
The trade-off is key management. Lose both keys and you have a problem. I kept one key on my person and the backup in a separate bag compartment, which worked fine for my trip.
Like the P005C, this model is not water resistant and has the same compact 0.05 cubic foot capacity. The steel construction and tethering cable provide solid deterrent-level security for hotel use.
Best Use Case
This is the right pick for travelers who prefer the reliability of a physical key over a combination code. It is also good for anyone who has struggled with forgetting combinations on previous trips.
Key Management Strategy
Always carry both keys in separate locations. Never store the backup key inside the safe itself. If your hotel room has a secondary lockable drawer, use it as a backup location for the spare key.
10. LOFICOPER Portable Lock Box — Best New-Generation Waterproof Safe
LOFICOPER Portable Lock Box, Beach Security Box for Travel, Anti-Theft 4-Digit Combination Lock Box, Cash Box with Removable Wire Rope for Dorm, Gym, Travel, Hotel, Office
4-digit combination
Waterproof ABS
Silicone seal
Detachable steel cable
Pros
- High-strength ABS with silicone seal
- 4-digit combination with 10000 codes
- Knob security switch
- Spacious padded interior
- Detachable 3.3ft steel cable
- Multiple color options
Cons
- Only 95 reviews so far
- ABS less durable than steel
The LOFICOPER Portable Lock Box is the newest product in this guide, with only 95 reviews so far but an impressive 4.4-star average. It combines a four-digit combination lock with a waterproof ABS construction and a silicone seal.
I was skeptical of a brand I had not heard of, but the build quality surprised me. The ABS plastic is thick and impact-resistant, the silicone seal creates a genuine waterproof barrier, and the knob switch adds a secondary security step that only turns when the correct code is entered.
The interior is spacious at 5.5 by 9.4 by 2.4 inches, with shock-absorbing padding throughout. The detachable 3.3-foot steel cable is longer than most competitors, giving you more options for anchoring to furniture or pipes.
ABS will never match steel for raw strength, but it wins on weight and waterproofing. For beach, pool, and boat use, this is one of the most versatile options I tested. The limited review count means long-term reliability is still unproven.
Best Use Case
This safe is perfect for travelers who need waterproof protection along with security. Beach trips, boat excursions, poolside lounging, and humid tropical destinations are all ideal scenarios for this model.
New Product Considerations
With fewer than 100 reviews, there is limited long-term data on durability. The early reviews are strong, and the features are genuinely competitive. If you prefer products with years of track record, consider the Master Lock or SentrySafe options instead.
How to Choose the Best Portable Travel Safe for Hotels
Choosing the right portable safe comes down to four decisions: lock type, material, size, and anchoring method. Here is how I think about each factor based on my testing.
Lock Type
Combination locks are the most popular for travel safes because there is nothing to lose. Four-digit combinations offer 10,000 possible codes, while three-digit options only offer 1,000. If security is a priority, favor four-digit models. Key locks are simpler and never need batteries, but losing the key while traveling is a real risk. Digital keypads offer fast access and are easy to reprogram, but they depend on batteries. Always choose a model with backup key access if you go the digital route.
Material and Durability
Steel construction offers the best physical security. The Amazon Basics case and SentrySafe models use genuine alloy steel that resists prying. ABS plastic, used by Master Lock and LOFICOPER, is lighter and water-resistant but easier to defeat with tools. Fabric options like the Pacsafe Travelsafe and Master Lock Money Bag prioritize portability and slash-resistance over rigid protection. Match the material to your threat model.
Size and Capacity
The best portable safe size depends on what you plan to store. For a passport, cash, and cards, a compact model under 1 liter works fine. For phones and small electronics, look for 1 to 2 liters. For laptops and camera gear, you need 5 liters or more. The SentrySafe P021E and Pacsafe Travelsafe Gii 5L are the largest options in this guide. Always check interior dimensions against your specific items before buying.
Anchoring System
A portable safe only works if it cannot be carried away. Every model in this guide includes either a tethering cable or integrated cable for anchoring to fixed objects. Look for cables at least 3 feet long and thick enough to resist cutting. In hotel rooms, anchor to plumbing, bed frames, or heavy furniture. On r/travel, many experienced travelers emphasize that anchoring is more important than the lock strength itself, because a determined thief takes the whole safe if it is not secured.
Water Resistance
Water resistance matters more than most travelers realize. Hotel bathrooms are humid, spills happen, and beach or pool use exposes your safe to water. The Master Lock 5900D, Pacsafe Travelsafe, Master Lock Money Bag, and LOFICOPER all offer water resistance. The SentrySafe models do not, which limits their versatility for outdoor use.
TSA and Air Travel Considerations
TSA does not specifically prohibit portable safes in carry-on or checked luggage. However, agents may need to inspect the contents, so use a TSA-approved lock if possible. The Pacsafe Travelsafe includes a TSA-accepted combination lock specifically for this reason. For other models, expect that TSA may need to open or inspect your safe during screening. Never pack valuables in checked luggage, safe or not.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are portable travel safes worth it?
Yes, portable travel safes are worth it for most travelers. Hotel safes often have master codes accessible to staff, and many can be reset using factory defaults. A personal safe gives you full control over access and can be anchored to fixed objects for added security. Even a basic deterrent safe significantly reduces opportunistic theft risk.
What is the best portable safe size for hotel travel?
The best size depends on what you store. For passports, cash, and cards, a compact safe under 1 liter works well. For phones and small electronics, look for 1 to 2 liters. For laptops or camera gear, you need 5 liters or more. Measure your largest item and compare it to the interior dimensions before buying.
What are the strongest portable safe materials?
The strongest portable safe materials are alloy steel and zinc alloy. Steel construction, like the Amazon Basics Security Case and SentrySafe models, resists prying and impact. ABS plastic is lighter and water-resistant but less durable against tools. Slash-resistant fabric with embedded steel mesh, like the Pacsafe Travelsafe, offers a balance of portability and cut resistance.
Can you use the safe in your hotel instead of bringing your own?
You can use the hotel safe, but it carries risks. Hotel staff typically hold master codes, and some in-room safes use default factory codes that are publicly known. Bringing your own portable safe lets you control the combination and anchor it to a fixed object, which eliminates the master-code vulnerability entirely.
What items should you store in a portable travel safe?
Store passports, backup credit cards, excess cash, jewelry, small electronics, and important documents in a portable travel safe. Avoid storing items you need frequent access to during the day. For high-value irreplaceable items, consider carrying them with you instead of leaving them in any safe, personal or hotel-provided.
Final Thoughts on the Best Portable Travel Safes for Hotels
After testing all 10 models, my top recommendation for most travelers is the Master Lock 5900D. It hits the sweet spot of portability, price, and practical security for hotel use. If you want steel construction, the Amazon Basics Portable Security Case XL is the best value. For beach and pool use, the Pacsafe Travelsafe Gii 5L remains the forum favorite and my premium pick.
The best portable travel safes for hotels in 2026 all share one thing: they are deterrents, not impenetrable vaults. The goal is to make your valuables harder to steal than someone else's, and every model in this guide accomplishes that. Pair your safe with common-sense habits like anchoring to fixed objects and not advertising what you carry, and you will dramatically reduce your theft risk on the road.
For more travel security tips, check out our guide to the best travel routers for hotel WiFi security to protect your data as well as your physical valuables.