Tap-and-go has become second nature for Aussies. Whether it’s PayWave at a Sydney café, PayPass at a Melbourne tram stop, or tapping through Brisbane Airport, contactless payments are everywhere. But with convenience comes risk — and contactless card skimming is on the rise.
Scammers don’t need to steal your wallet physically anymore. A small scanner tucked inside a backpack can “skim” your card’s details in a crowded spot like Perth Airport or a Bali night market.
That’s where an RFID blocking wallet comes in. These wallets are designed to stop unauthorised scans, keeping your PayWave and PayPass cards safe whether you’re travelling across Australia or heading overseas.
What Is RFID & Why Should Aussies Care?
RFID stands for Radio Frequency Identification, the tech inside your contactless bank cards. Every time you tap, your card is broadcasting a signal at 13.56 MHz.
According to ASIC MoneySmart (2024), contactless cards are convenient but vulnerable to “skimming” in public places ASIC MoneySmart. And while banks usually reimburse fraud, the stress and time wasted disputing charges are what sting.
With more Aussies relying on PayWave and PayPass daily, RFID blocking technology is no longer just a travel extra — it’s an everyday essential.
The Rise of Card Skimming at Airports & Tourist Spots
The Australian Federal Police (AFP, 2024) warns that airports, train stations, and busy tourist hubs are hotspots for card skimming AFP.
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Sydney Airport: Long queues make travellers distracted.
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Melbourne CBD trams: Shoulder-to-shoulder contact, perfect for digital pickpockets.
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Brisbane River ferries: Tourists paying on the go.
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Perth cafés: Wallets left on tables are easy targets.
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Bali markets & Europe’s metro systems: Popular with scammers looking for Aussies with contactless cards.
Skimmers don’t need physical theft — just proximity.
How RFID Blocking Technology Works
Think of your contactless card like a tiny radio station. Anyone with the right “receiver” can tune in. An RFID blocking wallet works like noise-cancelling headphones: it shields the signal so nothing leaks out.
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Built-in layers: Aluminium mesh or carbon fibre blocks the 13.56 MHz signal.
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Total coverage: Works for debit, credit, passports, and even transport cards like Opal and Myki.
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No extra steps: Just store your cards as usual.
Best RFID Wallets for Aussie Travellers
TravelGear offers a wide range of anti-theft travel wallets designed for both domestic commutes and overseas trips:
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Pacsafe Coversafe X100 Waist Wallet – hidden, lightweight, great for Sydney trains or Bali adventures.
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RFID Blocking Travel Money Belt – slim design, ideal for Brisbane Airport security checks.
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RFID Blocking Security Stash Bag – keeps essentials safe on Europe’s metros.
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Pacsafe RFIDsafe LX200 Clutch – stylish option for Melbourne city breaks.
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Pacsafe RFIDsafe LX250 Travel Wallet – passport-friendly, perfect for Perth to London flights.
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Genuine Leather RFID Men’s Wallet – everyday protection with classic style.
🛍 Buyer’s Guide: Choosing the Best RFID Blocking Wallet
Not all RFID wallets are built the same. Here’s what to look for before buying:
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Materials
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Aluminium mesh – lightweight, effective, blocks PayWave/PayPass signals.
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Carbon fibre – slim, ultra-durable, modern look.
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Lined fabrics – common in belts and sleeves, flexible but protective.
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Capacity & Size
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Slim wallets – ideal for daily use in Sydney or Melbourne commutes.
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Travel wallets – bulkier, fit passports and multiple cards for long trips.
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Wallet vs Sleeve
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RFID wallets – best for all-in-one everyday use.
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RFID sleeves/passport covers – handy if you want to keep your current wallet.
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When to Use
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Domestic commuting – slim wallets or card holders.
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Overseas holidays – money belts or zippered wallets.
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Business trips – clutch or zippered organisers.
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Extra Safety Tips: Beyond RFID Protection
RFID protection is one piece of the puzzle. DFAT’s Smartraveller (2024) advises combining RFID wallets with other habits DFAT Smartraveller:
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Use a money belt for backup cash.
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Lock your phone with a strong passcode.
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Notify your bank of travel dates.
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Avoid public Wi-Fi for banking.
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Check statements regularly.
RFID Wallet vs Regular Wallet
| Feature | Regular Wallet | RFID Wallet |
|---|---|---|
| Skimming Protection | ❌ None | ✅ Blocks 13.56 MHz signals |
| Peace of Mind | ❌ Worry | ✅ Stress-free travel |
| Cost | âś… Cheaper | đź’˛ Slightly higher |
| Durability | Varies | âś… High-quality materials |
Mini Checklist: Before You Travel
âś… Pack your RFID wallet or passport sleeve
âś… Notify your bank of travel dates
âś… Carry emergency contact numbers
âś… Store backup cash in a money belt
âś… Avoid public Wi-Fi for banking
Real Stories from Aussie Travellers
Backpacker in Bali
Tom from Brisbane was at a Bali café when his mate’s card was skimmed. Tom’s Pacsafe RFID wallet saved him the same fate.
Sydney Business Commuter
Rachel, working in Sydney CBD, uses a slim RFID card holder daily. After news of skimming on crowded trains, she switched and hasn’t looked back.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do RFID wallets really work?
Yes. Choice Australia (2024) tested RFID wallets and confirmed they block most commercial scanners, making them an effective tool against contactless skimming.
Is card skimming common in Australia?
Yes. The Australian Federal Police (AFP, 2024) warns that airports, CBDs, and public transport hubs are hotspots for skimming attempts.
Do I need RFID protection if I only travel domestically?
Yes. Crowded Aussie airports and city trains are still prime spots for thieves using scanning devices. RFID wallets are useful for both local and overseas travel.
Will banks cover fraud if I’m skimmed?
Usually yes. However, ASIC MoneySmart (2024) notes that while banks may reimburse fraudulent charges, you can still face stress, delays, and disputes before your funds are returned.
How do I care for an RFID wallet?
Keep it dry, avoid bending it sharply, and if it’s leather, clean it with a gentle conditioner. The protective layers (aluminium or carbon fibre) should not be damaged to maintain effectiveness.
When should I use an RFID sleeve instead of a wallet?
If you prefer your existing wallet but want to protect a single card or passport, RFID sleeves are a simple, lightweight option. Use a full RFID wallet if you carry multiple cards or travel often.
How can I test an RFID wallet at home?
Simple test: place a contactless card inside the RFID wallet, then try tapping it on a PayWave/PayPass terminal or public transport reader. If the transaction doesn’t go through, your wallet is blocking correctly.
Will an RFID wallet block my Opal or Myki card?
Yes, most RFID wallets block Opal (Sydney) and Myki (Melbourne) cards since they use similar 13.56 MHz signals. To use them, you’ll need to take the card out of the wallet before tapping.
From Sydney commuters to Bali backpackers, Aussies are using PayWave and PayPass more than ever. That also means scammers are hunting for opportunities.
The smartest move? Protect yourself with the best RFID blocking wallets in Australia. They’re simple, stylish, and shield your cards from unwanted scans at home and abroad.
👉 Shop the best RFID blocking wallets in Australia today at TravelGear. Travel safe, spend safe.