Best Waterproof Wallets 2026
Keep your cards and cash safe from the elements with these tried and tested waterproof wallets.
There's nothing worse than going on holiday and realising that your wallet may succumb to water damage because you didn't plan accordingly. Whether you're sunning it by the sea or partaking in watersports by the lake, it pays to have the appropriate wallet that will protect your belongings from the elements and prevent potential disaster. This article is here to get you prepared for such an eventuality, and I'll be giving my honest opinion on my personal favourite waterproof wallets that are not just waterproof but also highly functional and durable for whatever you throw at them.
- 1.The Different Types of Waterproof Wallets: What to Consider
- 2.Should I buy a Waterproof Wallet?
- 3.Bellroy Venture Wallet
- 4.Chums Surfshort Wallet
- 5.The Flipside 4 Wallet
- 6.Runoff Waterproof Wallet
- 7.WX1 Functional Wallet
- 8.DryTide Waterproof Wallet
- 9.Pelican G5 Field Wallet
- 10.Alpaka Zip Pouch
- 11.Slimfold Soft Shell Wallet
- 12.Witz See it Safe Wallet
- 13.Flowfold Sailcloth Wallet
- 14.Storus Dry Pouch
The Different Types of Waterproof Wallets: What to Consider
I’m not trying to teach you to suck eggs, but understanding why you may or may not need a waterproof wallet is key to choosing the right one. Normal wallets, whether leather or otherwise, will naturally get ruined when submerged in water, and most would also expose your wallet’s contents to the elements. This is where the first important distinction comes in. Ask yourself: do you want to be able to take your wallet directly in the water so your entire wallet is submerged?
If your answer is yes, then you’ll need to look for a fully encased wallet, one that makes it so anything inside will never feel a drop of water. If you answered this question with a no (perhaps you’re just lounging on a beach or at a waterpark and are never planning on directly submerging the wallet in water) then you’re looking for what I’ll call in this article a beach wallet. This is one that can tough it out in wet conditions and won’t get ruined, but also won’t protect your cards and cash if it did get fully submerged.
This is where the disintctio between waterproof and water-resistant comes into play. A waterproof wallet can be fully submerged in water without any liquid penetrating the contents inside, making it ideal for activities like swimming, kayaking or white water rafting. A water-resistant wallet, on the other hand, can handle splashes, rain and light moisture but won’t protect your belongings if fully dunked underwater.
Should I buy a Waterproof Wallet?
If you’ve stumbled upon this article then it’s a safe bet you’re already pretty keen on purchasing a waterproof wallet. Waterproof wallets are best for people who enjoy watersports and outdoor activities and want protection against the elements.
Something to keep in mind is that waterproof wallets tend to be larger than the average wallet, so bear this in mind if you’re looking to slim down or keep your daily carry to a minimum. That being said, waterproof wallets are not meant to replace your standard wallet but act as an alternative for those occasions where you might need one.
When I went travelling in America I ended up doing some whitewater rafting. Although I was prepared with the correct footwear and a wetsuit, I somehow failed to realise that my EDC (everyday carry) including my wallet and phone wouldn’t last if I was to get submerged. This mistake really caused me to research waterproof wallets myself, and after reviewing over 25 different wallets this list was formed as I would find myself in Omis, Croatia, not long later and this would be the perfect opporunity to test these wallets out.
Bellroy Venture Wallet
Bellroy is best known for its range of innovative and premium wallets. As one of the largest manufacturers nearly entirely dedicated to developing and selling wallets, it’s no surprise they’ve come up with their own take on the waterproof wallet.
The Bellroy Venture, previously known as the ‘All Conditions’ Wallet is exactly that. As the name suggests, the wallet is meant to be used by those who want something that can combat all conditions, whether hiking or swimming. Made from a water-resistant leather, the All Conditions Wallet retains a premium look without sacrificing functionality.
The size is larger than a lot of wallets on this list, coming in at 156mm x 92mm, but that’s intentional as it’s meant more as a travel wallet, enabling you to keep your passport, phone, and cards safe from surface water damage.
Coming in at a price tag of around $100.00 (you can get a larger version for bigger phones), the wallet is teetering on the higher end of the spectrum. Nevertheless, Bellroy is a brand you can trust, and with a three-year warranty you can be sure it will last no matter what conditions you put it through. For more information on the Bellroy All Conditions Wallet, click the link below.
Water-Resistant Only: Please keep in mind the Venture Wallet is only suitable for surface-level water and won’t protect your wallet’s contents if entirely submerged.
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Chums Surfshort Wallet
If you’re looking for a cheap, minimalist waterproof wallet for the simple purpose of a few outings, then the Chums Surfshort Wallet is sure to take your fancy. This simple nylon wallet does exactly what it says on the tin by providing a safe wallet alternative for those looking to guarantee safety in harsher conditions.
The wallet only comes in at 4.5 inches x 3 inches, which means it’s perfect for those who already have a slimmed-down everyday carry and want to continue this with a waterproof alternative. Its features are limited but serve a specific purpose. These include a maximum card capacity of around eight cards and an outside ID slot window. I found in practice that the wallet is durable, and a submersion test in water didn’t result in any cards or cash getting damaged. The wallet isn’t the most attractive, but it does come in a range of distinct colours and quirky designs that are more than suited for a beach enviroment.
Coming in at a cheap $9.99, the Chums Surfshort Wallet isn’t the most versatile wallet on the market, but for its instantly affordable price it perfectly executes its job as a waterproof wallet, one which I feel you could quickly order to accompany your main wallet when on holiday. For more information on Chums and this wallet, visit their website directly by clicking the link below.
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The Flipside 4 Wallet
The Flipside Wallet dates back to the good old days on Kickstarter where you couldn’t avoid seeing hundreds of wallets all vying for your funding. Well, the Flipside succeeded and nearly a decade later is still around, boasting its unique look and feel. The wallet is what’s known as a hard-case or hardshell wallet: a fully encased uPVC plastic box with internal compartments to safely store your cash and cards.
Circling back to its material, although it’s not the most pleasing material to hold as it’s essentially made from a high-density plastic, it more than makes up for it in terms of functionality, providing crush and scratch resistance alongside its water-resistant properties.
Having tested many hardshell-style wallets in the past that ended up being susceptible to water, a quick water dunk test quickly dispelled any concerns this would happen to the Flipside Wallet. It is completely waterproof. I believe this is down to its clever hinge system that keeps it shut, clamped down with a certain strong vigour.
Aside from this, the wallet comes in at a decent size, not too bulky in the pocket (but definitely noticeable), and is the type of wallet that shouldn’t just be reserved for holidays or water shenanigans but could entirely replace your wallet with ease. At a price tag of $42.95, which is honestly great for a small-batch independent brand, and a whole host of somewhat eccentric colours to choose from, the Flipside Wallet is definitely worth your consideration.
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Runoff Waterproof Wallet
The Runoff Wallet is an interesting one and a bit of an outlier on this list. The first thing to note is it doesn’t really look like a classic wallet or any of the wallets on this list. That being said, it’s definitely up there as a waterproof wallet, and this unusual look plays into the many features this wallet has that others don’t. The first thing is the Runoff Wallet is quite large, coming in at 94mm x 128mm, with it being noticeably long. This is great for people who want to add more items than just cash and cards and protect everything one might carry with them, whether that be your smartphone or car keys.
Built-in attachment points mean it can be integrated onto a belt, making it convenient to carry, while its see-through window means you can keep track and always know where everything is at a moment’s notice. A small thing, but something I appreciated having in the end. Rugged and durable, the Runoff Wallet is made from some top-quality materials, making it not just waterproof (and verified IP67 at that) but also dustproof. Welded seams and patented TRU Zips make it a fantastic choice for people looking for that added protection for more than just wallet-related items.
At a price of just $24.99, I can’t really fault the Runoff Wallet as it goes above and beyond in terms of what the majority of us are looking for. Personally, it’s a little large for my liking. I found I didn’t have a good place to store it, nor did I feel like I was maximising the wallet’s great capacity. But for those who would, I can’t think of a better choice on this list. For more information on the Runoff waterproof wallet, check out their official website using the link below.
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WX1 Functional Wallet
What I love about the WX1 Wallet from Expedition Units is it doesn’t look like a waterproof wallet and could pass off as any good, attractive-looking wallet. With a military-inspired, all-black look, it really could be the best-looking wallet on this list. The wallet itself is in a pouch design and boasts the brand’s signature material dubbed AWPE 400 (All Weather Performance Ecofabric), designed specifically for its waterproof properties and durability.
Not only this, but if you’re into your ethics and sustainability, this is one of the top picks on this list, made from recycled materials including RPET sourced from plastic bottles. You can feel a little better about your purchase knowing it’s not contributing to environmental waste.
A great little wallet, compact enough to hold more than enough cash and cards. Inside you’ll find two card slots, two compartments and an internal zip pocket, which I found more than adequate for cards, cash, keys and other small items. Coming in at $59.00, the WX1 sits in the mid-range for waterproof wallets on this list, but considering you’re getting two straps included, it’s a nice touch.
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DryTide Waterproof Wallet
If you’re looking for the ultimate small waterproof wallet, then it doesn’t get much smaller than the DryTide, a fully waterproof wallet measuring only slightly larger than a credit or debit card. This is for people who don’t carry much in the way of cards or cash and really want something that’s not going to get in the way or feel bulky or effortful to carry.
Crafted from a high-quality, rip-resistant material (600D polyester TPU and PU laminated) and constructed using, I think I read this right, ultrasonic welding that eliminates stitches, it’s clear that DryTide have gone to great effort to make sure not a single drop of water can penetrate the wallet.
Personally, this is more of my kind of vibe, and the DryTide was my perfect companion on those beach days where I didn’t need anything more than a few credit cards and notes. Coming in at a price tag of around $25.00, it’s really affordable and something I’d recommend to anyone who wants to carry less. For more information on this waterproof wallet, check out their official website using the link below.
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Pelican G5 Field Wallet
The brand Pelican know what they do best and stick to it: hard-cased things ranging from luggage to coolers, including wallets. The G5 Personal Utility RF Field Wallet (which is a bit of a mouthful) continues this trend in the Pelican line, creating a fully encased wallet that clamps shut with a watertight seal for water protection. Compact and small in size, once opened the Pelican wallet offers an area at the front where cash and other small items like keys can be stored, with the top section hosting a rubber strap where your credit and debit cards can be tucked underneath.
Additional features include the hand strap, which can be removed, alongside its hard aluminium shell being crushproof and rated to IP67. My personal dunk test went swimmingly (excuse the pun) when I submerged the Pelican G5 for five minutes with zero water penetrating the contents inside.
Overall, its small size, which felt great in a front or back pocket, beautiful design and fairly decent price tag of just $47.95 make the Pelican G5 a great choice for people looking for the hardshell style. For more information, check out their official website using the link below.
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Alpaka Zip Pouch
Probably my personal favourite wallet on this list, the Alpaka Zip Pouch is as simple as it is innovative, and in terms of style points it doesn’t get much better than this. First of all, the Zip Pouch is incredibly small, coming in at just 8.5 x 13cm, making it effortlessly compact and something you’ll actually want to carry with you. But don’t let its small size deceive you. It’s surprisingly spacious with two included pockets: one larger slot at the top and a side one for better organisation. I found I could easily get anywhere from four to seven cards in it, depending on what else I have stored, and even enough leftover room for other smaller items if needed.
The water dunk test was again flawless, and this is one of those wallets where you really never need to be afraid to get it wet. The weatherproof X-Pac material is a sort of textured fabric, not just waterproof but also highly durable to all sorts of hardy conditions. It’s also worth mentioning the guard zippers that create an extra seal between the inside and the zipper, further adding to the attention to detail Alpaka put into the wallet, and the results show.
Slightly more expensive, coming in at $35.00 and available in black, green and orange, the Alpaka wins for my favourite waterproof wallet due to its smaller size, fantastic quality and its design, which just looks cool and is something I’d enjoy carrying with me.
Slimfold Soft Shell Wallet
A different take on the waterproof wallet, the Slimfold Soft Shell resembles more of a traditional bifold-style wallet. Made from an ultra-durable and soft fabric, the wallet isn’t 100% waterproof but does provide great protection against the elements.
With a capacity of eight to ten cards and weighing just 0.5oz, the Slimfold is a perfect minimalist wallet for those who probably don’t plan to fully submerge their wallet but do want something more sturdy and protective than typical wallets on the market.
Coming in at a price tag of $60.00, the wallet is much more expensive than others on this list. You’ll also be getting less functionality in terms of its water-resistant properties. Nevertheless, the wallet can be used as a complete replacement for your everyday wallet as it is strong, durable, and minimalist in all the right places. For more information on the Slimfold Soft Shell Wallet, visit their website directly by clicking the link below.
Water-Resistant Only: Please keep in mind the Slimfold Wallet is only suitable for surface-level water and won’t protect your wallet’s contents if entirely submerged.
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Witz See it Safe Wallet
Something a little different on this list, the Witz See it Safe resembles more of a lanyard, being a plastic Perspex case meant to be carried around the neck. What I really admire about this wallet is its simplicity and security. I had reservations about keeping my wallet around my neck, but it turned out to be a fantastic alternative to the traditional way of carrying a wallet. I found having the Witz around my neck gave me added security and peace of mind as I was never continually feeling my pocket to see if my wallet was still there (something I do quite often). Instead, the wallet was always in sight perfect for a beach enviroment.
The wallet is much smaller than many on this list. I found the Witz could only really hold a maximum capacity of four to five cards, and that’s without notes or any additional items you may want to carry.
At a price of only $12.00 (at the time of writing), I think this wallet is a great alternative for those who want added security when on the move and in an outdoor environment. The clear material also added benefits I didn’t expect, with being able to see where each card is at all times, making finding what you want faster. For more information on the Witz See it Safe, click the link below.
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Flowfold Sailcloth Wallet
Flowfold is a brand I’ve talked a lot about in the past. They’re a brand that uses recycled sailcloth to produce a range of functional and upcycled wallets. The reason this wallet is on this list, as you’d imagine, is because the sailcloth material is incredibly resistant to water damage. Although it isn’t entirely waterproof, the sailcloth is the perfect material for people looking for a halfway house between waterproof and water-resistant.
In a trifold design, the Flowfold has six dedicated card slots for a maximum of around ten to twelve cards. It has a long note slot typical of most trifold wallets and a weight of 1.1oz. The features are pretty standard for a wallet of this calibre.
Coming in at a price tag of $50.00, the wallet is one of the more expensive on this list. I think this wallet is best for more environmentally conscious people, given it’s made from recycled materials. But overall the wallet was good in practice and served its purpose well. For more information on the Flowfold brand and this wallet, click the link below.
Water-Resistant Only: Please keep in mind the Flowfold Wallet is only suitable for surface-level water and won’t protect your wallet’s contents if entirely submerged.
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Storus Dry Pouch
Finally, I wanted to include something a little bit different, something which I wouldn’t class as a wallet but is nevertheless waterproof and will be a temporary solution to all your water-resistant needs. The Storus Dry Pouch, as the name suggests, is a simple thin plastic pouch, something similar to a ziplock bag, which you can simply throw whatever you want into to protect it from the water. If you’re the type of person who isn’t bothered about having something that looks nice in terms of design, and want pure function, then the Dry Pouch might be all you need.
Made of ultra-durable polyurethane, it feels flimsy and something that would break easily, but in my intentional tests being overly zealous with it, it really does hold up. And the water test? Passed that with flying colours also, with zero water penetrating the contents over a five-minute dunk test.
Also included in the packaging is a neck strap and carabiner clip for easy and safe carrying, and with five different sizes available, with sizes going large enough to store larger items like cameras, it’s really versatile for most needs. Aside from its ugly appearance, starting at just $9.99 (for its smallest size) and up to $24.99 (its largest size, which can fit a full-sized iPad), it’s hard to beat for someone who just wants something cheap and easy that does the job.
Check Wallet Price| My Rating (out of 10) | Wallet | Protection Level | Material | Type | Price | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9.8 | Nite Ize Runoff | Waterproof (IP67) | TPU with RF-welded seams | Zip pouch | $24.99 | Buy Now |
| 9.5 | Alpaka Zip Pouch | Waterproof | X-Pac | Zip pouch | $35.00 | Buy Now |
| 9.3 | DryTide | Waterproof (10m depth) | 600D polyester | Zip pouch | $25.00 | Buy Now |
| 9.1 | Pelican G5 Field Wallet | Waterproof (IP67) | Aircraft-grade aluminium | Hard Case | $47.95 | Buy Now |
| 9.0 | Slimfold Micro Soft Shell | Water-resistant | Custom Soft Shell synthetic fabric | Bifold | $60.00 | Buy Now |
| 8.8 | Expedition Units WX1 | Waterproof | AWPE 400 recycled RPET with TPU coating | Zip pouch | $59.00 | Buy Now |
| 8.4 | Witz See it Safe | Waterproof | ABS plastic | Hard Case | $12.00 | Buy Now |
| 8.2 | Flowfold Sailcloth Traveller | Water-resistant | Recycled sailcloth | Trifold | $50.00 | Buy Now |
| 8.1 | Flipside 4 | Waterproof | Polycarbonate plastic | Hard Case | $42.95 | Buy Now |
| 8.0 | Bellroy Venture Phone Pocket | Water-Resistant | Top-grain leather with TPU coating | Zip pouch | $89.00 | Buy Now |
| 7.9 | Chums Surfshort | Waterproof | Ripstop nylon | Zip pouch | $12.00 | Buy Now |
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