Everyday Carry

The 17 Best Card Holder Wallets in 2024

Authored by:
Adam Molina
Reviewed by:
Bernard Capulong
Founder and Editor-in-Chief
14+ Years Reviewing EDC Products
The 17 Best Card Holder Wallets in 2024

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When’s the last time you paid for something with cash? With the rise of online shopping and more stores accepting cards and electronic payments, chances are you don’t need to carry much cash with you wherever you go. That’s good news if you’re looking to slim down your everyday carry, too.

Modern minimalist credit card holder wallets are the perfect upgrade to bulky, outdated billfold wallets designed for carrying loose bills and cash. By switching to a card holder wallet, you’ll have access to your most important bank cards, transit pass, ID, business cards, and some emergency cash in a minimalist package without all the bulk of a regular wallet.

In this guide, we’ll show you our top picks for great credit card holders and minimalist wallets to complete your everyday carry. Whether you’re looking for a futuristic metal wallet, a super slim card sleeve, modern takes on the familiar bifold design, or RFID protection for your front pocket, you’re sure to find a card holder in this list that fits the bill.


What's the best card holder wallet?

The Best Overall Card Holder Wallet: The Ridge Wallet [Buy] / [Full Review]

The Best Card Holder Wallet on a Budget: Magpul DAKA Everyday Wallet [Buy] / [Full Review]

The Best Card Holder Wallet for Cash: Distil Union Wally [Buy] / [Full Review]

The Best Tactical Card Holder Wallet: Dango T01 Tactical Wallet [Buy] / [Full Review]

The Best Leather Card Holder Wallet: Filson Bridle Leather Card Case [Buy]


The Ridge Wallet
Magpul DAKA Everyday Wallet
Distil Union Wally
Dango T01 Tactical Wallet
Filson Bridle Leather Card Case





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Dimensions: 3.4" x 2.1" x 0.23"
Dimensions4.2" x 2.84"
Dimensions: 3” x 4.4” x 0.31”Dimensions: 2.625" x 4.375"
Dimensions3.875" x 3"
Capacity12 cards plus cash
Capacity3-7 cards
Capacity: 14 cards and 30 or more bills
Capacityup to 12 cards
Capacity: 3 cards
Key Features: Cash strap or money clip
Key Features: Lightweight and tough polymer construction
Key Features: Signature pull tab
Key Features: Includes MT02 multi-tool
Key Features: One-piece construction
Buy Now
Buy Now
Buy Now
Buy Now

The

The Best Overall Card Holder Wallet: The Ridge Wallet

Purchase
Key Features
RFID protection
Cash strap or money clip option
Front pocket wallet
Specifications
Dimensions
3.4" x 2.1" x 0.23"
Capacity
12 cards plus cash
Material
6061-T6 aluminum
Rating


Price
$$
If what you’re after is a durable wallet that will last then look no further than the Ridge Wallet. This ultra-thin aluminum minimalist wallet measures a mere 6mm thick and lets you carry up to 12 of your most used cards. Your choice of a built-in cash strap or money clip means that you’ll always have a few bills on hand for your favorite cash-only lunch spot. Not to mention RFID-blocking construction will keep your information safe from anyone who might be up to no good. Choose from a variety of finishes to match your particular style without sacrificing functionality.
Magpul

The Best Card Holder Wallet on a Budget: Magpul DAKA Everyday Wallet

Purchase
Key Features
Windowed ID pocket
Cash compartment
Lightweight and tough polymer construction
Specifications
Dimensions
4.2" x 2.84"
Capacity
3-7 cards
Material
Reinforced polymer
Rating


Price
$
Magpul has serious expertise in crafting quality polymer goods. They put that knowledge to work when assembling their DAKA line of minimal wallets. The DAKA Everyday Folding Card Holder offers more capacity when you need room for emergency cash. Its slim design also features a transparent protective window on one side that's perfect for an ID or access card. Its extremely durable welded construction is also chemical resistant, making it a great alternative to leather or canvas.
Distil

The Best Card Holder Wallet for Cash: Distil Union Wally

Purchase
Key Features
RFID protection
Signature pull tab
MagLock mechanism
Specifications
Dimensions
3” x 4.4” x 0.31”
Capacity
14 cards and 30 or more bills
Material
Full-grain leather
Rating


Price
$$
The latest 5.0 version of the Distil Union Wally card holder features a new MagLock system unique to the wallet. The magnetic closure enhances the experience of snapping this bifold shut. The squeeze-to-open pockets help secure cards in the wallet. A pull tab for cards makes accessing them easily when it's time to pay. Furthermore, a stainless steel money clip makes carrying cash easy. Each Wally Card Holder is crafted with hand-rolled edges and made out of rich full-grain leather.
Dango

The Best Tactical Card Holder Wallet: Dango T01 Tactical Wallet

Purchase
Key Features
Bundle includes MT02 multi-tool
Integrated money clip and bottle opener
RFID-blocking
Specifications
Dimensions
2.625" x 4.375"
Capacity
up to 12 cards
Material
Leather and aluminum
Rating


Price
$$
Not all things are as they appear at first glance. Take the Dango T01 Tactical Wallet for example. What looks to be a simple cardholder wallet at first is actually a well-made multitool that just happens to also moonlight as a wallet. The frame is entirely CNC-machined aluminum cleverly designed to perform up to 14 functions. Not only can it hold 12 of your most-used cards but it also has a built-in serrated blade, nail pryer, and phone stand to name a few. For a Made in the USA wallet that’s tough as nails (and can help you pry some too) make sure to keep the Dango 01 Tactical Wallet on your radar.

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Filson

The Best Leather Card Holder Wallet: Filson Bridle Leather Card Case

Purchase
Key Features
Front pocket carry
Made in the USA
One-piece construction
Specifications
Dimensions
3.875" x 3"
Capacity
3 cards
Material
Bridle leather
Rating


Price
$$
If you’re after a compact, perfect for front-pocket carry then the Bridle Leather Card Case by Filson should be on your shortlist. This leather wallet has three slots for just the essentials, so if you’re looking to replace your bulky bifold with something a little sleeker this is for you. It is handcrafted from vegetable-tanned leather right here in the USA and the seams are sewn using durable nylon that shouldn’t fray at the first sign of struggle.
Trayvax

Trayvax Element Wallet

Purchase
Key Features
TSA approved
Made in the USA
65-year warranty
Specifications
Dimensions
4.5" x 2.8" x 0.5"
Capacity
3-10 cards plus 1-5 folded bills
Material
Metal and leather
Rating


Price
$$
A well-built leather wallet can last decades, and the Trayvax Element Wallet is without a doubt well built. It has tanned leather wrapped around a sturdy stainless steel frame blending the best of wallets from the past and the future into one package. It even has a MIL-SPEC paracord binding and RFID protection for good measure. An integrated money clip keeps a few folded bills securely stashed while the main section easily holds up to ten cards. A convenient cutout in the leather makes finding the card you need at the moment effortless and a built-in bottle opener means you won’t be caught off-guard at the next get-together.
Trayvax

Trayvax Contour Wallet

Purchase
Key Features
TSA-compliant
Made in the USA
65-year warranty
Specifications
Dimensions
3.8" x 2.4" x 0.5"
Capacity
1-13 cards plus 1-10 folded bills
Material
Metal and leather
Rating


Price
$$
Not all card-holder wallets need to look like a single folded piece of leather. Case in point: the Trayvax Contour Wallet. This ultra-thin wallet has a leather lining cleverly attached to a CNC-machined metal frame with a built-in bottle opener. It can hold up to 13 cards and ten folded bills and has a sliding clasp that allows for easy adjustment. So whether you’re carrying at capacity or are looking to slim down, it’ll be comfortable to handle either way. The Contour doesn’t just look good either, it also has a durable PVD coating and RFID-blocking built-in for added protection. If the wallet somehow gets damaged, Trayvax has you covered with its unique 65-year heirloom warranty.
GOVO

GOVO Badge Holder

Purchase
Key Features
Doubles as an ID or badge holder
Spring-loaded mechanism secures up to 4 cards
Tough and lightweight
Specifications
Dimensions
3.8" x 2.6" x 0.38"
Capacity
4 cards
Material
Polycarbonate
Rating


Price
$
Designed and engineered in the USA, the GOVO Badge Holder is used by military and law enforcement worldwide. This badge holder features a 2mm transparent polycarbonate window that lets you display your ID card or badge. And since it has enough space for up to four of your cards, it can function as a card holder wallet as well. Its spring-loaded system secures cards even if the wallet isn't fully loaded. An optional metal clip doubles as a steel connector for lanyards to let you use it as an ID by hanging it from your pocket or belt.
Aer

Aer Card Holder Wallet

Purchase
Key Features
RFID-safe pocket
Quick-access card slots
Ultra-durable and water-resistant
Specifications
Dimensions
5.1" x 3" x 0.2"
Capacity
Up to 6 cards outside, plus interior storage
Material
1680D CORDURA ballistic nylon
Rating


Price
$
The Aer Card Holder offers a simple yet effective format for carrying your essentials. Three quick-access card slots on the outside keep your most used cards at the ready. The zippered RFID-safe pocket offers more secure storage with its microfiber interior lining. Aer doesn’t skimp on materials either. This card holder boasts ultra-durable CORDURA ballistic nylon as its main fabric. It's finished with water-resistant YKK zippers and a tough Hypalon label.
Dango

Dango D01 Dapper Wallet

Purchase
Key Features
Made in the USA
Integrated money clip and bottle opener
TSA-compliant
Specifications
Dimensions
2.625" x 4.375"
Capacity
up to 12 cards
Material
DTEX and aluminum
Rating


Price
$$
If you want a USA-made wallet that’s less tactical and more TSA-approved, look no further than the Dango D01 Dapper Wallet. It’s a fully structured card holder with an ultra-slim, durable design. Dango combined their usual premium leather lining with RFID-blocking aluminum resulting in a secure wallet with a comfortable feel. The aluminum chassis offers additional functionality to your carry, like a built-in bottle opener, phone stand, and more. A textured elastic band secures folded cash and other essentials to the exterior.
Pioneer

Pioneer Ion Cardholder

Purchase
Key Features
Waterproof, washing machine safe
Seamless construction
Premium feel and looks
Specifications
Dimensions
4.05" x 5.9" x 0.07" (when open)
Capacity
4-6 cards and folded bills
Material
10XD™ or 3PN™ ripstop fabric
Rating


Price
$$
Outdoorsmen and adventure-seekers will especially appreciate the high-performance materials and technical construction of this sleek minimalist wallet. Its bifold cardholder design holds up to 6 cards plus some folded bills for emergencies. Available in your choice of 10XD, an ultra-strong material made with ultra-high-molecular-weight-polyethylene, or 3-ply nylon, the Ion is water-repellant, dirt-resistant, lightweight, yet impressively long-lasting.
Hayvenhurst

Hayvenhurst Pop Up Wallet

Purchase
Key Features
RFID-blocking
Quickly fans out your cards with a button
Multi-purpose cash strap
Specifications
Dimensions
4.1" x 2.52" x 0.29"
Capacity
4-5 cards plus folded bills
Material
Aluminum
Rating


Price
$
Have your card essentials instantly on hand at the push of a button with Hayvenhurst's Pop Up card holder. This ultra-slim, minimalist option holds up to 4-5 cards while boasting RFID-blocking protection. It also blends some of the finest materials you can carry with its aluminum construction and carbon fiber pattern. If you still need to carry cash, you can use its multi-purpose strap for folded bills, notes, and other items without bulking up its slim design. And any time you need your cards, one push of its signature pop-up system fans them out, ready for use at a moment's notice.
AKEENi

AKEENi XSTO Wallet

Purchase
Key Features
100% metal construction
Customizable design
Four card size variations
Specifications
Dimensions
3.75" x 2.3" x 0.58" (4 card variant)
Capacity
4-10 cards plus 8 folded bils (depending on the size variant)
Material
Metal
Rating


Just released
Price
$$
If you have a keen eye for quality then the AKEENi XSTO Wallet hasn’t skipped your notice. It’s one of the more unique options on this list with a clever design that makes sifting through your cards to find the right one quick and painless. It comes in a few different configurations that let you hold up to ten cards along with some cash and business cards. The XSTO wallet is machined from a single piece of aluminum so you know it can handle your daily wear and tear, plus they offer detailed personalization options so you can really make it yours.

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Open

Open Sea Leather Hot Rack Card Holder Wallet

Purchase
Key Features
Front pocket carry
Single-piece construction
Customizable design
Specifications
Dimensions
3.5" x 2.75" x 0.38"
Capacity
6 cards and quartered cash
Material
Full-grain leather
Rating


Price
$
If you enjoy the classic heritage style of stitched and folded full-grain leather wallets but you don’t want to carry around a bulky traditional bifold, check out the Hot Rack by Open Sea Leather. It’s a minimalist front-pocket card holder wallet that’s crafted using a single piece of full-grain leather with two pockets on the front and back and a cash strap for carrying folded cash bills. There’s a wide range of colors available for both the leather and the stitching, giving you plenty of personalization options for an already stylish design.
Secrid

Secrid Cardprotector Wallet

Purchase
Key Features
Slides out your cards in a single push
RFID-blocking
Part of a modular system
Specifications
Dimensions
4.1″ x 2.5″ x 0.31″
Capacity
6 cards
Material
Aluminum
Rating


Price
$
The award-winning Secrid Cardprotector might be for you if you have an eye for design. It fits 6 cards yet only weighs 50 grams, making it feel like it disappears in your pocket. The card holder has a spring-loaded lever on the bottom that fans out your cards for easy pickings. When you're done, push them back inside the RFID-blocking aluminum chassis and the cards stay hidden from view. As the core of their system, Secrid's Cardprotector is their most minimal wallet. If you do need to carry cash, you can add on an optional cash strap.
Bellroy

Bellroy Flip Case Card Holder Wallet

Purchase
Key Features
Molded hardshell design
Dual magnetic trapdoors
RFID protection
Specifications
Dimensions
4.1" x 2.75" x 0.4"
Capacity
8 cards plus folded bills
Material
Eco-certified leather and polymer
Rating


Price
$$
The Bellroy Flip Case features an ultra-slim, dual-sided design based on a polymer hardshell case. The Flip Case holds up to 8 standard-sized payment and ID cards. Two cards fit into a quick-access section behind a magnetic flap. The main compartment’s RFID-blocking technology helps keep the rest of the cards safe from skimmers and fraudsters. It’s equipped with magnetic trapdoor openings that prevent your cards from coming out of the wallet until you need them to. Lastly, premium eco-certified leather rounds out the exterior.
Flowfold

Flowfold Founder Card Wallet

Purchase
Key Features
Clear ID slot
Lifetime warranty
Ultra lightweight
Specifications
Dimensions
4.5" x 3" x 0.2"
Capacity
6 cards and folded bills
Material
Sailcloth technical fabric with X-Ply
Rating


Price
$
The Founder is Flowfold’s newest ultra-slim card holder, featuring a horizontal design and a clear ID pocket. It’s made in the USA out of recycled sailcloth technical fabric that’s both extremely durable and lightweight. It weighs in at only 0.7 oz when empty. There’s a main center cash pocket for folded bills and four card slots that are excellent for carrying just the essentials.

Card Holder Wallets

Why is a card holder better than a wallet?

A card holder is better than a regular wallet because it takes up less space in your pocket. With more stores accepting cards and electronic payments via smartphones, you probably don’t need a regular wallet to carry cash and coins. A card holder helps you carry just the essentials and eliminates bulk from your pocket.

How do I choose a card holder wallet?

Choose a card holder that’s easy to use and has enough room to carry your essential cards. Make sure the card holder is also built with quality materials that are durable enough to carry every day. Also, consider the aesthetics of the card holder and how it matches your personal style.

What are some of the benefits of a card holder wallet?

A card holder keeps your cards organized, protected, and easy to access.

Card holder wallets usually weigh less and take up less space compared to a regular wallet.

A slim wallet that fits in your front pocket can help you avoid the pain of sitting on your wallet in your back pocket.


How we picked

Decades of experience and deep connections in the everyday carry industry give us a unique viewpoint on the market to inform our product recommendations. We have the depth of information for thousands of products that have come before and an extensive eye on the market to see what’s new and trending for each piece of gear. The result is a buying guide that we feel is informative and useful for every trade, industry, and budget.

What is Everyday Carry?

Everyday Carry is both the concept of what people carry in their pockets and the process of picking out gear that thoughtfully considers what one wants or needs in their daily lives. It encompasses everything from style to preparedness to utility, meaning an entire industry full of valuable tools and essentials to choose from.

Why you should trust us

Our team has decades of combined experience in all aspects of everyday men’s essentials, from wallets to pens to bags and everything in between, and we know where to find great gear ideas that you may not come across at your local stores or when shopping online. Our expertise with the industry and familiarity in design, materials, and usability help you make more informed choices when it comes to picking up your next piece of gear.


Adam Molina

Senior Contributor


About the Author
Adam Molina is a product review expert and seasoned everyday-carry enthusiast. They have covered gadgets and niche items for almost ten years and are passionate about exploring the ever-evolving landscape of consumer electronics and everyday carry gear. Having always been drawn towards electronics, they began their career reviewing audio gear and personal electronics for outlets like Soundguys, Android Authority, and Business Insider. They are currently a member of MKBHD network of channels, including an executive producer role on the Waveform Podcast.

In addition to their expertise in the tech realm, Adam possesses a wealth of knowledge and experience in everyday carry gear ranging from watches to niche carabiners. He has used more backpacks than he can count, a plethora of different kinds of wallets, all kinds of multi-tools, and many random gadgets that never even make it into a recommended buying guide. Adam has developed a deep understanding of the nuances and practicality that make these items indispensable to modern-day life.

Adam is an avid runner and reader in their spare time and loves to learn random skills. Adam is the go-to resource if you are looking for an expert opinion on a product or want to learn more about everyday carry. They are happy to answer any questions and help you find the best products for your needs.

Bernard Capulong

Founder and Editor-in-Chief


About the Reviewer
Bernard Capulong is an everyday carry (EDC) gear expert, entrepreneur, all-around nerd, and the founder and editor-in-chief of EverydayCarry.com—the largest online community for EDC gear enthusiasts. Since founding Everyday Carry in 2009, he’s built over a decade of experience in the industry, reviewing and highlighting brands and products, including pocket knives, flashlights, wallets, watches, bags, pens, and much more.

Bernard is known for bringing everyday carry out of obscurity and into the mainstream, having been published or featured in various publications such as GQ, TIME Magazine, The New York Times, VICE, HYPEBEAST, Outside, and many others. He has also played a part in curating, designing, and developing digital and physical products, resulting in successful crowdfunding projects or limited edition collaboration products with established softgoods brands. He stays on the pulse of the EDC industry by attending trade shows, participating in online interest communities, and actively engaging with fellow gear enthusiasts on social media.

In addition to being the editor-in-chief and main social media personality for EverydayCarry.com, Bernard is an avid gearhead and collector in general. His personal collections span technical bags, fountain pens, digital cameras, retro gaming hardware, personal hi-fi audio gear, and mechanical wristwatches, to name a few. Bernard Capulong is a prominent figure and trusted authority in the everyday carry industry with a career dedicated to helping people discover this hobby and stay prepared with quality gear.