TSA's Real ID Fee Starts in February—Everything You Need to Know, Plus the Hack That Will Save You Money

For most—if not all—a trip to the DMV isn’t high on the list of fun things to do. In fact, it feels like a chore, which is why I’ve put off upgrading my current form of identification to a Real ID. If you’re like me, it could soon cost you—$45 to be exact. 

Starting February 1, 2026, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is introducing a $45 fee for those traveling without a Real ID or other form of acceptable identification (like a passport or Global Entry. The TSA says that the $45 will allow you to use a “modernized alternative identity verification system” to confirm your identity at security checkpoints. 

So, if you want to avoid what’s basically another flight fee, upgrade your current ID and don’t forget to pack it (as I often do). The best way to make sure it’s always on you is to keep it with something you never leave behind, like your phone or keys. I love using a MagSafe wallet to keep my ID and credit cards close. If I’m traveling with a passport, I use a brightly-colored wallet to hold everything so I can quickly look into my personal item bag to see if it’s there or not. The passport wallets and ID holders below can help you come up with a personal travel hack to avoid that $45 fee. And they’re almost all on sale, with prices starting at just $5. 

Best Travel Wallets to Store Your ID

Poiugoya RFID-blocking Bifold Slim Wallet

Made with faux leather and available in over 30 colors, this bifold RFID-blocking wallet is a total fashion statement, and it’s budget-friendly enough that you can grab a few to match with your travel outfits. It comes with two clear windows, allowing you to stash your ID in either, plus nine other slots for credit cards or tickets and a cash and coins pocket. 

Kngitryi Wallet Keychain Wristlet

Whether you want to wear it as a wristlet or use its ring to attach it to your keys, this RFID-blocking keychain wallet is a great way to keep your ID close. Its strap is a stylish beaded bracelet that’s made with a stretchy, elastic band that conforms to your wrist, preventing it from slipping off your arm. Plus, it comes in so many fun colors, like hot pink, light blue, and purple. 

Melsbrinna RFID-blocking Passport Holder

Dubbed one of our best passport wallets for its color availability, the Melsbrinna RFID-blocking passport holder also features a transparent window for storing your ID and four card slots. Though your ID will sit snug enough that it won’t slip out of the wallet, the passport holder is also made with a snap button closure to provide extra security. 

Venture 4th Money Belt

If you make a habit of strapping this money belt around your waist every time you’re off to catch a flight, you’ll notice when you’re not wearing it, possibly preventing you from forgetting your ID at home. It’s also slim enough that it can be worn under clothing, making it the ideal bag for protecting your cash and cards from pickpockets when you’re on the move. 

FurArt Zipper Wallet

It’s probably a good idea to have identification on you every time you leave your house, and not just when you’re traveling to a different state. A keychain wallet is a simple hack to make sure that—just like your keys—your ID is on you at all times, especially when it’s time to show it to TSA. This keychain wallet is small and compact but really spacious, since it’s designed with a total of 15 card slots. Now 20 percent off, it’s just $10, making it a steal, too. 

Tataanty RFID-blocking Minimalist Travel Wallet

This compact Tataanty minimalist wallet—unbelievably just $5—comes with a lanyard you can wear around your neck for a hands-free way to hold your ID and other valuables. It’s slim, water-resistant, and lightweight, so it won’t weigh you down or get in the way, even if you’re running to catch a flight on a rainy day. 

Conceal Plus Small RFID-blocking Wallet

If you prefer a compact ID holder that’s spacious enough to hold all your cash and cards, this slim wallet is it. It’s made with a pop-up mechanism that quickly snaps your ID and cards out of the wallet when needed, keeping them otherwise secure. Reviewers also say that this size-conscious wallet helps reduce the bulk in their pockets. 

Huanlang Airtag Passport Wallet

Accidents do happen, and a misplaced wallet is a sure way to ruin a day or trip. This passport and ID holder comes with an AirTag holder, so that you can digitally track its location the next time you’re second-guessing whether you actually packed it. Additionally, the passport wallet comes with a wrist strap so that you can securely keep it on hand while you’re walking through the airport. 

ExtreLife Magsafe Wallet

If your phone is the first thing you grab when you’re getting ready to go, then a MagSafe phone wallet is a failsafe way to make sure you never forget your wallet. This RFID-blocking magnetic wallet fits up to eight cards and your ID—and functions as a stand, so that you can comfortably watch a movie on your next flight. Plus, it’s designed with space for an AirTag. In other words, this wallet has it all. 

Travelon Anti-theft Metro Convertible Small Crossbody Bag

Keeping your identification and other important documents safe while traveling is super easy with Travelon’s Anti-theft Crossbody Bag. In addition to plenty of slots to store your ID, it’s also made with special features like slash-resistant straps and locking zippers to prevent thieves from taking off with your valuables. You can snag the editor-favorite bag for 35 percent off right now. 

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