What Should Every Man Have in His Wallet?

What’s the first thing that comes to mind when you hear the word “wallet”? Chances are, you’re imagining a bulky bi-fold wallet that’s bulging from someone’s bottom. If your wallet looks like that, we’re sorry to tell you this, but it shouldn’t.

The reason why your wallet is big and bulky is probably that you’re carrying more than necessary. By carrying less, you don’t have to deal with a wallet that’s literally a pain in the ass.

In this article, we’ll help you cut the clutter from your wallet. By stripping it down to the bare essentials, you can finally use that sleek slim money clip wallet that you’ve always wanted.

Things Every Man Needs in His Minimalist Wallet

Having a minimalist leather wallet means embracing the Marie Kondo lifestyle. In a nutshell, you need to cut all of the clutter.

So, what should every man have in his wallet?

#1 Cash

You can’t not have cash on you. How else are you going to buy a bagel from the food cart around the corner? How will you be able to pay for cash-only cabs? Paper money can be bulky, but you should always carry cash in case of unexpected cash purchases. Plus, carrying cash teaches you to be accountable. Relying on credit puts you at risk of overspending. The harsh reality is that if you can’t pay for it with cash, you probably can’t afford it in the first place. Besides, with a slim money clip wallet like the Trayvax Element Wallet you don’t have to deal with the bulk.

You’ll only need to carry enough cash, anyway. Carry a couple of ten or twenty dollar bills so you don’t have to run to the nearest ATM whenever you need paper money.

#2 Credit Cards

Playing with plastic has become the norm. But if you’re carrying a balance on your credit card, use it as infrequently as possible. If you’re not carrying a balance and your card has an excellent rewards program, use it as often as you’d like. If possible, carry two credit cards with you. A spare card can come in handy in case there’s a technical problem with your primary card, or in case the store doesn’t accept a certain type of card.

The rest of your credit cards should be left at home so that you don’t end up losing everything in case your minimalist leather wallet gets stolen.

#3 Debit Card

The downside of credit cards is that they put you at risk of impulse-buying. Fortunately, debit cards exist to escape the possibility of overspending. Use your debit card to pay for gas, groceries, and other expenses. As a rule of thumb, use debit to pay for purchases that are too expensive to be paid with cash, but too cheap to be paid with credit.

So, instead of swiping your credit card away, use your debit card to stay on budget. Plus, debit cards are the best way to withdraw cash from the ATM. You can withdraw cash from your credit card, but cash advances come with high fees.

#4 Driver’s License

Before leaving the house, double-check if you have your driver’s license on you. Not only do you need it to drive, but you’ll probably need to present it when purchasing over-the-counter medicines and alcohol. Plus, you’ll need to show your driver’s license in case you get pulled over by the cops. Consider using slim wallets for men such as the Trayvax Kryptek Armored Summit Wallet. It’s a wallet with an ID display, so you don’t have to flip your card case to find your driver’s license. 

#5 Insurance Cards

In case of an auto accident, you’ll need to show proof of your insurance. Most men store their insurance cards in their cars, but you should consider having them on you. Similarly, you should carry your medical insurance cards in your wallet. When there’s an emergency, you won’t have the time to run to your car to retrieve your cards.

#6 Membership Cards

Membership cards can help you save a lot of money through members-only offers. Additionally, some retail stores such as Costco and Sam’s Club won’t let you in unless you’re a member. To avoid getting turned away, buy yourself a minimalist wallet for men that can carry all of your membership cards. We recommend the Trayvax Contour Wallet -- it can hold as many as thirteen cards.

Conclusion

That’s it. That’s all you need in your minimalist leather wallet. Other clutter (e.g. receipts, checks, and condoms) should be stored somewhere else. Remember, your wallet wasn’t designed to be a bag -- but if that’s what you want, you should buy something like the Trayvax Roam Mini Clutch instead.