One of the most stressful situations a traveler can face is losing their wallet — or worse, having it stolen. Without cash, credit cards, or a driver's license, even the most well-planned trip can turn into a logistical nightmare.

But with the right preparation and quick action, you can minimize the impact and get back on track.

Prepare Before You Travel

Before your trip, take these steps to make recovery easier:

• Store digital copies of your wallet’s contents: Upload photos or scanned copies of your credit cards, driver’s license, health insurance card, and other important wallet contents to Trustworthy's Family Operating System®. That way, if your wallet is lost or stolen, you can quickly access all the details you need to report and replace them.

• Know emergency contact information: Save your bank's and credit card issuers' contact numbers in Trustworthy, too. Even if your phone is lost or stolen, you be able to access Trustworthy's digital vault via another device.

First Steps if Your Wallet Is Lost or Stolen

If your wallet is lost or stolen while traveling, acting quickly will help minimize financial loss and inconvenience.

1. Lock or Cancel Your Cards

• If you use mobile banking apps, lock your cards immediately to prevent unauthorized use. Many banks allow you to temporarily freeze a card if you think you might find your wallet.

• If you’re certain your wallet was stolen, report your cards as lost or stolen and request replacements. Some banks can provide emergency cash or expedited card replacement, even internationally.

2. Report the Theft

• File a police report at the nearest station. While this won’t guarantee your wallet’s return, having an official report may be required for insurance claims or fraud disputes.

• Contact your hotel if you think you lost your wallet on the property. If stolen, notify them so they can be on alert for suspicious activity.

3. Find Alternative Payment Options

If you’ve lost all your payment methods, here’s how to get money:

• Use a mobile payment app like Apple Pay or Google Pay if your bank cards were linked and you still have access to your phone.

• Ask your bank for emergency cash assistance — many major banks allow you to withdraw cash at partner banks or money transfer locations.

• Ask a trusted contact to send money via services like Western Union, MoneyGram, or your bank’s wire transfer services. Keep their contact information in your Family Operating System® so that you can easily reach them in an emergency.

4. Monitor Your Accounts for Fraud

Check your bank and credit card statements for any unauthorized transactions. If you stored anything sensitive in your wallet, like PINs or security codes, update those immediately.

How to Avoid Wallet Theft While Traveling

While you can’t always prevent theft, these habits can significantly reduce your risk:

• Keep your wallet in a front pocket or a cross-body bag rather than a back pocket or loose purse.

• Use a money belt or hidden pouch for backup cash and an extra card.

• Be cautious in crowded areas like public transportation, tourist spots, and markets, where pickpockets are most active.

• Carry only what you need — one or two credit or debit cards and minimal ID — while keeping a backup securely stored, such as in a hotel safe.

• Use a travel-friendly wallet, such as an RFID-blocking wallet to prevent digital theft, or a slim, minimalist wallet to reduce bulk and keep track of your essentials.

Final Thoughts

A lost or stolen wallet doesn’t have to ruin your trip. By taking a few simple precautions before you travel and knowing what to do if your wallet is lost or stolen, you can quickly regain control of the situation.

With Trustworthy as your digital backup, you’ll always have access to your wallet’s essential details — no matter where you are in the world.

• Related: Documents Your Family Needs When Traveling Internationally