Hey Carol! Thanks so much for this lovely comment, it made my morning. So glad you have found the information here useful! I do try to get down to details as much as possible. I hope your daughter is enjoying her trip and it sounds like when she gets back you may be planning another one for both of you 😉 I love traveling with my mom! Enjoy!

I LOVE your website/blog, especially the honesty and true generosity you display by sharing the details and specifics of things like money management, banks and payment methods, being able to afford your extended travels. I have been reading blogs like this for months in preparation for her trip and very few give specific details, or update their posts later to keep things up to date. I wish I had found you just two weeks ago. Not to worry, though. Everything I am learning from you is being noted for planning my trips. I am growing more convinced that I, too, can figure out and develop my own plan for some extended travel. You are an inspiration as well as an education. Thank you, very much.

Hey Carol! Personally I have never used a money belt — I just carry my money and whatnot in my purse or pocket the same way I would do at home and the same way locals of whatever country I’m in do. I never carry much cash (I have a debit card with no ATM fees as outlined in this post so I can withdraw often) and I also don’t take my passport out and about unless I’m in transit. Knock on wood, I’ve never been pickpocketed and my one time being robbed I was at a nightclub and wearing something that wouldn’t have been money belt friendly anyway 😉

It’s definitely a life saver. Give it a try, you’ll never go back! Really helped my friends and I at Burning Man.

Thanks Lauren! I’m all about getting specific in posts like this. I always try to post the kind of information I look for myself. I should add to this post as well that I’ve recently realized I am actually earning INTEREST on my Charles Schwabb checking account! Unheard of! It’s a small amount but every bit helps 🙂