Losing your wallet can be a nightmare. Not only is it frustrating to replace your ID, credit cards and cash, but you also run the risk of identity theft if your wallet falls into the wrong hands.
Fortunately, technology has come to the rescue with smart wallets that have built-in GPS tracking. This allows you to use your phone to pinpoint exactly where your wallet is, so you can quickly retrieve it if lost or stolen.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about choosing the best smart wallet with GPS tracking, including:
How GPS Wallets Work to Keep You From Losing Your Wallet
- GPS wallets contain a slim tracking device or card that connects to an app on your phone via Bluetooth.
- When activated, it allows you to view your wallet’s location on a map and track it in real-time.
- Many GPS wallets also have anti-loss alerts that notify you if you leave your wallet behind.
- Some even have additional features like built-in chargers, RFID protection, and selfie remote activation.
- GPS tracking gives you peace of mind that you can find your wallet anywhere in the world if it goes missing.
Top 10 Best GPS Tracking Wallets
1. Tile Slim – Best Tracking Card
- Ultra-slim and discreet credit card shape
- Easily fits into any wallet
- Tracks location up to 200 ft away
- Integrates with Smart Home assistants
- Helps ring phone even when on silent
- Rechargeable battery lasts 3 years
Cost: $34.88
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2. Ekster Parliament RFID Blocking Leather Wallet – Most Stylish
- Handcrafted premium leather
- RFID protected
- Holds up to 12 cards
- Integrated trackable card
- Solar charging technology
- 30 day battery life
Cost: $89
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3. Volterman Smart Wallet – Most High-Tech Features
- Wireless charging technology
- Built-in power bank
- Global GPS tracking
- Proximity alarm alerts
- Last location tracking
- Mobile app connectivity
Cost: $89
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4. Buffway Slim Minimalist Wallet – Best Budget
- Ultra-slim lightweight design
- Eight card capacity
- RFID blocking technology
- Quality faux leather
Cost: $12.79
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5. Roco Minimalist Aluminum Slim Wallet – Most Durable
- Aircraft grade aluminum
- Slimmest metal wallet design
- Holds up to 12 cards
- Integrated tracker card slot
- RFID blocking
Cost: $15.95
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6. Tribe Carbon Fiber Wallet – Most Stylish Metal
- Aerospace grade carbon fiber
- 10 year warranty
- RFID blocking
- Holds up to 12 cards
- Integrated tracker card compartment
Cost: $24.95
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7. Revol Wallets – Most Customization Options
- Custom engraved designs
- Premium Italian leather
- RFID blocking technology
- Integrated tracker card slot
- Holds up to 6 cards
Cost: $68
8. Nomad Leather Wallet – Best Design
- Horween leather handmade in USA
- Ultra slim design
- Holds up to 7 cards
- Tile Slim tracker integration
- 3 year battery life
Cost: $79.95
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9. Bellroy Hide & Seek – Best for Travel
- Premium environmentally certified leather
- RFID protected
- Hidden coin pocket
- Currency straps
- Notebook slip pocket
- Passport pocket
Cost: $89
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10. Normest Smart Wallet – Innovative Design
- Modern curved silhouette
- Aircraft aluminum and leather
- Holds up 10 cards
- Integrated AirTag slot
- RFID blocking technology
Cost: $59
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What to Look for in a Smart GPS Tracking Wallet
There are a few key factors to consider when choosing the right smart wallet for your needs:
- Size – Make sure it’s slim enough for comfortable everyday carry. Avoid bulky designs.
- Build Quality – Look for durable, high-quality materials like leather, aluminum, carbon fiber.
- Storage – Optimal capacity is 8-10 cards plus cash. Avoid overstuffed wallets.
- RFID Protection – Blocks hackers from stealing your credit card information wirelessly. Provides peace of mind.
- Power Source – Rechargeable via USB is best for longevity. Replaceable batteries are second best.
- App Integration – Should provide real-time map tracking and location history. Added features are a bonus.
- Style – Pick a design that fits your personal tastes. You’ll use it daily.
- Price – Set a budget, but expect to invest $25-$100+ for a quality wallet.
6 Benefits of Using a GPS Tracking Wallet
- Immediately locates your wallet anywhere in the world.
- Notifies you if wallet is left behind or taken by someone.
- Gives peace of mind against loss or theft.
- Helps protect against identity theft via RFID blocking.
- Allows you to access phone even when silent by ringing it.
- Provides last known location if out of Bluetooth range.
How to Choose the Right GPS Tracker for Your Wallet
Choosing the right tracking device for your wallet depends on your specific needs and preferences:
- Thinness – Do you want it unseen inside your wallet? Opt for the thinnest trackers like Tile Slim.
- Battery Life – Longer battery (2-3 years) means less frequent charging/replacing. But it comes at a cost.
- Durability – Metal or carbon fiber trackers stand up to wear better than plastic ones.
- Range – Determine the max distances you need to track from – 200ft is ideal for most.
- App – Make sure the tracker integrates well with your smartphone OS for seamless use.
- Size – Standard credit card size fits any wallet. Larger 1″ buttons may need special wallets.
- Price – Basic trackers start around $20. More advanced ones cost up to $50.
Expert Tips for Using a GPS Wallet
Follow these pro tips from security experts for getting the most out of your smart wallet:
- Register it immediately and sync with your phone’s GPS. Don’t wait until it’s lost!
- Add both your home and office addresses. The app will notify you if wallet is left behind.
- Turn on location sharing with trusted family members for extra tracking assistance.
- Put a contact info card in your wallet in case of loss and someone finds it.
- Enable last known location feature in the app if wallet goes out of Bluetooth range.
- Set up geofence alerts – it will buzz your phone when leaving a set area without wallet.
- Update the tracking app periodically to ensure optimal performance.
- Consider adding an RFID-blocking sleeve as extra identity theft protection.
- Beware of “too good to be true” crowdfunded smart wallets – research carefully!
FAQs
How does the GPS tracking work in a smart wallet?
The tracking works through a slim device or card integrated into the wallet that connects via Bluetooth to an app on your smartphone. It provides real-time location tracking on a map.
What is the range of a GPS wallet tracker?
Most reliable trackers have a range of about 200 feet via Bluetooth. Some work globally via GPS satellite or crowd GPS.
How long does the battery last in a GPS wallet?
Battery life ranges from 1 year up to as long as 3 years before needing to be recharged or replaced, depending on model. Advanced trackers offer the longest battery life.
Can the wallet tracker still locate my wallet if stolen?
As long as it remains within Bluetooth range (200ft) it can track a stolen wallet. Some also use crowd GPS to locate globally.
Do I need a separate wallet designed for the tracker?
Basic credit card sized trackers can fit into any standard wallet. But for secure integration, a dedicated smart wallet with special slots is ideal.
What happens if my GPS wallet tracker goes out of range?
Most tracker apps record the wallet’s last known GPS location if it loses the Bluetooth connection. This gives you the general area to search.
What is the Normest smart wallet?
The Normest features a unique curved silhouette wallet made of aluminum and leather. It has an integrated slot to hold an AirTag tracker and space for up to 10 cards.
The Bottom Line
A GPS tracking wallet provides an invaluable safeguard against losing your most essential daily carry item. The peace of mind of being able to instantly locate your wallet anywhere, and get alerts if you leave it behind, is well worth the investment.
Hopefully this guide has given you all the knowledge needed to find the best smart wallet with built-in GPS tracking for your unique needs and style.
