Functional Wallet
20 Best Wallets for College Students [Updated 2021]

So you’ve already stepped forward to a whole new page of your life? Let’s find yourself a gift! One among the wallets for college students, for example. It not only helps you to hold everything more neatly but looks more mature now. Life always needs activeness, and a well-organized wallet will be the easiest first start.
If you’ve neither tried a wallet beforehand nor known which is the best for you as a college student, don’t take your eyes off this 20 Best Wallets for College Students collection!
Criteria to keep in mind when buying Wallets for College students:
Spending 5 hours finding out the needs, researching, and reading an assortment of online customer reviews about wallets for college students. Finally, I came up with a list of 30 well-reviewed products down to 20.
And if you’re wondering how I winnowed my personal final testing list, here are all the key criteria that I’ve found and analyzed:
1. Affordable price
With students, whether you’re provided with money from my parents or living independently, the budget is usually tight, isn’t it? That’s why I see 90% of college students tend to find an affordable wallet to keep their essentials for school days. In turns, they invest more in other accessories, like handbags, shoes, makeup stuff, and books.
That’s why 20 wallets provided as follows come at a price less than $20 (the cheapest is just roughly $8), meeting different demands, and from different reliable brands with warranty.
2. Compact but Functionality
There’s not much stuff in a college student wallet, except for a student ID card, 2-3 bank cards, and some bills. I mean, generally. Some other cases might also include coins and keys but in general, you will need a compact wallet (especially male students) that can stay neatly in your front pocket.
The most important thing, which 85% of students want to get is the combination of an ID holder and a slim wallet, maybe a student ID wallet. Clearly, it’s much convenient and practical for their school days.
3. ID Window
As mentioned above, many universities require student ID cards when they are in campus. A wallet with 1 ID window is best for two benefits: Protection and Ease of Access. For more convenience, some ID windows even have a smart thumb strap or crossed design. All that creativity is served for extra convenience and user-friendliness.
4. Durability
Your wallet is going to withstand daily abuse use, year to year, so it must be durable enough to stick with you for the longest time possible. Think about it, choosing a cheap wallet but then, have to replace 3-4 units within a year compared to buying a bit costlier one but used for years come ahead, which is more affordable?
With these criteria in mind, I have narrowed it down to a collection of these wallets for college students. I ran each one through 2 weeks to simulate some long-term wear and tears as well. And after such testing time, here are 20 best minimalist wallets for you:
Let’s check out 10 Best Wallets for College Students:
01. Lethnic Slim Wallet RFID Front Pocket Minimalist Student ID wallet – Genuine Leather – Free Engraving

During my personal test to find out the slimmest wallets for college students, I find Lethnic is the best out of a bunch and it’s all about the material. Crafted from 100% genuine cowhide leather with an addictive texture feel and good wear resistance. But the most incredible thing is its thinness. Compared to a canvas or fabric wallet, it’s 0.15-inch thick is obviously competitive. Plus, no heavy!
It takes me roughly a week to break in and afterward, giving a nice fit for 7-8 cards, easy access, keep a good shape, and stay nicely in any pockets of mine. Some slots are featured to be looser than I can put in some folded papered money, receipts, and bills.
But what I love the most is its ID holder. There’s a piece of clear plastic outmost so I can easily present my identification card when in need without removing it. Another bonus is their colorways. Though the color collection of Lethnic isn’t as varied as Kinzd or Travelambo, I appreciate their distinction in each tone provided. Hardly can you find the same color on the market.
Though it’s not much necessary for students, a big compliment for the RFID Blocking Technology. If you’re going abroad, it turns out to be a good protector for your private information. Another good point of this wallet is that it has slim and minimalist construction. And the brand is willing to give you free personal engraving. Just send them your initials, name, or a lovely quote, they will help make your wallet unique and meaningful.
02. Lethnic Mini Keychain Wallet – Minimalist Slim Front Pocket Genuine Leather Card Holder with ID Window – Free Engraving

For those who usually carry a neck ID holder in school, this might be the best upgrade ever. It slims down your daily carries by combining a minimal wallet with your ID holder. Release a brand-new profile of only 4.33 x 2.95 inches, with 3 card slots, 2 slips, 1 money compartment, and 1 ID window.
With this, your backpack or pockets are free because your casual wallet now is on your neck, hand-free and pocket-free. I do appreciate the built-in RFID Blocking Technology that keeps my valuable cards (as well as my personal information) safe against hi-tech thieves.
During my personal test on this feature, it truly blocks RFID signals from 125 KHz to 13.56 MHz, which is safe and sound. Carrying this on my neck is also much more protective because at least, it stays out of pickpocket thieves, and when I’m out, just hide it underneath my jacket or t-shirt. I think that’s why people (especially travelers) love equipping themselves with at least a hidden wallet.
In terms of material, I find the genuine cowhide of these college student wallets is a bit softer and quicker to break in but, the same durability and is semi-waterproof. There’s even a smart thumb strap on the ID window, which is very thoughtful. What else to ask?
If you’re interested in the creativities of Lethnic’s designs, don’t hesitate to take a look at this collection of Highly-recommended Lethnic wallets.
03. Slim Wallet RFID Front Pocket College student wallets Minimalist Secure Thin Credit Card Holder

For a few extra bucks, you’ve got this – the Kinzd. It’s also another slim wallet, but the difference from the two above is one extra zippered pocket with a detachable strap and one bigger O-ring. That’s also the reason it’s measured in larger dimensions. But size 4.4 ” x 3.15″, still compact enough to slide into any pockets.
Aside from those two distinctive features, you also have 6 card slots, 1 ID window, and 1 removable key chain. Particularly, there’s on finger glide for the ID holder, making it easier and faster to take out your identification card, or driver’s license, or photo.
Moreover, the RFID Shield that’s nicely built-in every single card slot gives me peace in mind that all the vital information in my cards won’t ever be stolen. But take note that it only works on 13.56 MHz! And for the ID window, obviously, the protection is less than other ones.
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04. Vera Bradley Zip ID Case – Wallets for College students

I always admire Vera’s collection following the main concept of floral, cute, and feminine style. Out of their diverse lines, I pick this Zip ID case for student gals for some reasons:
- First, it’s really slim and minimal: 5” x 3” to stay nicely in any pockets, handbags, or backpacks. But the capacity is large enough for 2-5 cards and some folded bills (if you don’t mind storing everything in one place). The attached smooth zipper helps to keep them securely and even there’s a cute ribbon holder.
- This Vera Bradley features only two spaces: One ID window and one larger interior compartment. But my most favorite part lies in the attached key ring. It’s a big O-ring with nicely logo engraving on there to give some “custom” feel. But on top of that, is the incredibly benefit you will receive from this leverage.
It’s the most versatile key ring that I’ve tried that you can hook/connect to anything, from a car mount, keys, hooks, belts, backpacks, or simply, your ID holder lanyard.
I would say this is a wonderful upgrade that you can carry your ID card with other valuable stuff, lightly, nicely, and securely on your neck, in style.
05. Baseball Sport Wallet with ID Badge Holder & D-Ring – Free Engraving

If you are a fan of baseball sport, it is no reason for you to ignore this awesome wallet from the Lethnic brand. Taking inspiration from its favorite football players, Lethnic wants to make history with its latest stunning baseball wallet.
I love the sophisticated design of this wallet with the innovative sporty-style curve and gorgeous two-color combination. This design and style give this wallet a truly cool look. The material is 100% genuine cowhide leather that ensures sturdiness and smoothness. Also because of the high-quality material, this wallet can remain its beauty and durability over time.
A big bonus of this Lethnic Student ID wallet is its minimalist and flat design that gives you many advantages. You can enjoy the convenience when carry this wallet inside your front or back pockets during the baseball match. Furthermore, it has not only a compact size but also a roomy capacity as it can fit up to 12 folded bills and 10 cards.
Moreover, this card holder wallet has great security as it features RFID blocking technology that can fight against the 13.56 MHz signals. The best thing is the D-rings can be attached to your backpack, handbag, keys, and belts. There are three different colors for your choice including green, brown, and red. Therefore, you can find the best one that fits your outfit.
06. Life-Mate Badge Holder – Leather Student ID Wallet – Card Holder Wallet Case with Neck Lanyard/Strap

Now this one looks more like an ID badge holder, right? It’s a perfect choice to hold a vertical student ID card, with 2 extra card slots buttoned securely on the backside. But the best thing, at least on my standard, is the 24” durable and extendable line. It’s not only adjustable but also includes a 360-degree rotated badge reel to return easily without hitches or snags.
The carabiner clip in this case is big enough to hook to your belt, backpack, or keys like a breeze if you don’t prefer carrying it on your neck. Another benefit of this carabiner badge reel with the clip when combining with a lanyard is you can quickly fasten it in many ways.
About the price, the Life-Mate is considered the cheapest out of a bunch. That’s because it’s crafted from PU leather. But don’t get it wrong! It’s premium material to bring rare durability. Besides, its linen finish delivers a unique hand-feel and distinctive look. You shouldn’t overlook this slim leather wallet!
07. Lethnic Slim Mini Leather Card Holder – Mini Victory – Free Engraving

Add this Lethnic slim leather wallet to your accessory collection. This product from the Lethnic brand is highly recommended because of its super-slim flat design. Measured by 2.99 x 4 inches and designed with a thickness of only 0.2mm, this wallet can stay perfectly in your front pockets.
Another good point of this brand is its main material Saffiano that gives the wallet’s quality the best warranty. This leather not only offers a sophisticated look but also remains its beauty over time. Furthermore, the design with the unique “red slot” makes this item outstanding and special among other products in the market. The “red slot” also allows you to keep the most used cards inside as it provides easy access.
These best wallets for college students provide a collection of unisex colors and designs. If you are a girl or a woman, you can pick the Dark Green or Pink color. I am very confident when using this piece of wallet to hold my cards because it offers a great RFID blocking function for your private information safe.
Overall, with these above pros and features, this Lethnic College student wallet is the best choice for someone with a busy and modern life. Another good point of this wallet is that it has slim and minimalist construction. And the brand is willing to give you free personal engraving.
08. JEMINAL New Mens Canvas Trifold Wallets for Boys Purse – Best Wallets for College Students

Move on to the Jeminal, you will find a whole different story – It’s a canvas wallet with Velcro-strap closure. But take note that this is a high-quality material that’s not only as rough to the touch as other grades, but also comfortable, durable, and scratch-resistant.
The biggest advantage of the canvas is its casual-military look and flexibility. In fact, this is a versatile student ID wallet to be used as a sport, fashion or leisure item if you want it to. But what makes this canvas wallet outstanding from other counterparts is its squared design. Giving a clean, sharp look, from outside in.
Its interior designs are wisely and neat, including 7 card slots, 2 cash compartments, and 1 ID window. Perfect for 7-10 cards and 7-8 folded bills. But the best part is the zippered pocket laid in the back of this little boy. It features a huge capacity that surely fits a lot of paper money, receipts, and cards.
Though constructed as the best minimalist wallet, it’s measured only 3.15 x 0.79 x 4.53 inches to toss in whichever pockets you have. And the weight, it’s reasonable – 70grams when empty. In case for those who are afraid of its heft.
09. KAVU Big Spender Wallet Tri-Fold Clutch

Next up is another new fabric – cotton. Yeah, the very first wallet in this list that’s crafted from 100% high-quality 12oz cotton canvas with textile lining. Frankly, I was skeptical if it was moisture absorption, but seemed like other customers didn’t feel the same way as me, the feedback was really good. And plus, the price couldn’t be cheaper, so I picked it.
The KAVU’s Big Spender is more compact than I thought, only 7.5” x 11” – fitting nicely in my palm. And despite the trifold silhouette, it’s not bulky at all, even after being fulfilled with my essentials. Contrast to its minimal outlook, this wallet is very well-organized on the inside, with 5 card slots, 1 ID window, and 1 cash pocket.
It doesn’t need time to break in like the leather, which is the biggest bonus. Moreover, giving flexible storage for my cash and cards, you can cram it a bit, like 7-8 cards and 6-9 folded bills. But of course, don’t do it frequently! However, that’s not all about this KAVU, there’s one extra internal checkbook pocket for your small notes, passport, or stuff like that.
If you’re a notebook student, don’t miss out on these best wallets for college students!
10. Leather Small Bifold Long Wallet – Crown L – Free Engraving

If you are a fan of the Lethnic brand, never miss this Student ID wallet. The Crown L card holder wallet has a distinctive and unique look with a mix of outstanding color schemes that bring a nice blend of modernity and tradition. You can choose black or brown with red – white color for the fashion or classic style.
When it comes to capacity, there are 4 long compartments and 9 card slots for paper bills, coins, checkbooks, passports, receipts, cards, and so on. To keep cards safe and secure, this wallet is designed with an RFID blocking function that protects your private information from unauthorized scanning.
The best thing is that these College student wallets don’t look bulky or budging. In fact, the minimalist silhouette, which saves space in your bag and provides convenience for carrying.
11. FurArt Credit Card Wallet, Zipper Card Cases Holder for Men Women

If you don’t have much money to afford an expensive student wallet, this FurArt product will satisfy your needs but doesn’t empty your pocket. It is the card holder wallet that costs only about $10. Despite the cheap price, its quality and function are not a joke.
Several things make these wallets for college students worth a try. The first one is a small design with a measurement of 4.3 x 3.0 x 0.9 inches. However, the minimalist silhouette doesn’t mean this wallet lacks room. It features a roomy capacity for holding up to 13 credit cards and some cash thanks to the multiple pockets. So the capacious coverage is another good point of this FurArt piece.
Also, many people love the convenience of this wallet as the extra key chain is designed to hold your keys or attach the lanyard that can be used to hang the wallet on your neck. So, this item is ideal not only for school but also for traveling and shopping. Thanks to the RFID shielding material, your personal information, and vital cards from unwanted scanning.
12. Money Clip, Front Pocket Wallet, Leather RFID Blocking Strong Magnet thin Wallet

Plot twist to a money clip wallet. This 4.3″ x 2.8″ model is produced by Kinzd that highlights with 1-year replacement guarantee. This time, the genuine leather isn’t their signature Napa kind anymore, but the crazy horse full-grain. But take note that as with other types of leather, this will also be slightly tight at first. After roughly 5-7 days, it will be much easier to access your cards.
While I myself it’s much cooler and more character than the previous sibling, this college student wallet is super slim and functional with two more slots added in this upgraded version.
It’s constructed with 4 card slots, 1 slip, 1 ID window, and 1 magnetic money clip. But what’s worth mentioning here is the magnets, it’s stronger than my initial expectation that can keep 10-12 folded bills like a breeze. Even you shake the wallet hard, there’s no bill falling off.
The secret is this wallet is leveraged up to 4 pieces of magnets, instead of 2 as other magnetic strap wallets usually choose, which makes them much more powerful. Last but not least, is, of course, the RFID Blocking Technology that does block any 13.56 MHz frequency.
13. Harry Potter Diagon Alley Wallet – Wallets for College Students

This Harry Potter Diagon Alley wallet from Bioworld has a mid-range price; so it is affordable to everyone. Thanks to the bifold closure, this wallet can store your cash and cards safely and securely. This piece features capacious and roomy coverage for holding your daily essentials.
Because of the decoration and design, these college student wallets are appealing to Harry Potter’s fans. The Nimbus 2000 broom logo and a platform 9 ¾ patch are vicious and bright. Not to mention the Hogwarts Crest embellishment that is familiar to any fan of Harry Potter. I don’t feel surprised when this Bioworld wallet is a fashionable and unique product you can not find anywhere.
Because of the trendy style and functional design, this item is ideal for use daily and on different occasions. Overall, it is the best minimalist wallet for students that make fans of Harry Potter obsessed with it. Thanks to the beautiful detail and great quality, I think this one is worth a purchase. I only wish that this Student ID wallet is designed with an ID slot for me to see my driver’s license.
14. Casmonal Passport Holder Cover Wallet RFID

When we are looking for the best wallets for college students, we can not ignore this stunning Casmonal passport holder cover wallet for traveling and adventure. With the collection of 16 different colors, a meaningful quote printed on the cover, and a functional design, this product is a thoughtful gift for anyone who loves traveling.
The price of this college student wallet is very affordable at less than $10. Despite the cheap cost, this one has an amazing quality that exceeds my expectation. For example, the interior has a roomy space for storing a boarding pass or ticket, a single passport, banknotes, and 4 cards. Its coverage is divided into one ticket slot, one passport slot, and five card slots.
Also, thanks to the strong elastic band wrap, everything stays in place. Furthermore, the genuine leather construction withstands the test of time and makes sure that your wallet lasts over time. I also love the RFID blocking function as it protects my personal and private information.
Because it is designed for college students, first-time or seasoned travelers, the Casmonal passport holder cover wallet isn’t the best choice for business travel.
15. PUMA Little Kids’ Rise Trifold Wallet – Student ID Wallet

When it comes to the bifold wallets for college students, I would like to suggest the PUMA Rise Trifold Wallet. Because of the adorable and cute design, this one is the best gift for your kids. Although it is designed for kids, children, and college students, this wallet features capacious coverage as an adult product. You can stash a lot of bills inside the wallet. The wallet’s space is divided into a zipper pocket, 1 bill compartment, and 3 inner pockets; therefore, you can carry your tiny coins and small items.
Another good point of this product is that the hook and loop fastener keeps your belongings in place without falling off. So even wearing this wallet, your children can enjoy any active activities. Furthermore, knowing the personalities of children and kids, the manufacturer designs their product with dark colors like black and red. So, your wallet looks okay when it has dirt.
The material of this wallet is high-quality polyester so handwash is possible to remove the dirt after a long time using. It is the best student wallet you can find in the market, not the slim and small trifold. So think carefully before making the purchase.
16. Thread Wallets – Slim Best Minimalist Wallet – Front Pocket Credit Card Holder for Women

Thread Wallets are the best choice for those who prefer to enjoy the freedom of their on-the-go lifestyle, by eliminating all extra stuff and just keep the essentials. They feature a new kind of material, which has been arguably a choice wise to meet the nowadays’ demand of a slim design without sacrificing functionality.
The elastic card holder keeps nicely 2-8 cards with some folded bills with no need of breaking-in time. Besides, it’s high-quality, sturdy, useful and particularly, much cheaper than leather or metal wallets. Actually, it’s constructed from tight-knit elastic that takes no risk of cards sliding off. Not to mention that they are much slimmer: Only 3 x 2.2 inches.
The colorful collection of Thread best minimalist wallet is very distinctive and vast that surely matches your personality, no matter it’s a playful and fun or clean look and sharp.
17. Real Leather Wallets for Men – RFID Blocking – College Student Wallets

As you can see the Estalon is well-known for its traditional leather products that are a harmony of a stylish sophisticated look, high quality, great value, and affordability.
Not being exceptional, this real slim leather wallet is modern and elegant so that it is an ideal gift for stylish and cool men. First, genuine soft leather offers a luxurious look while ensuring durability. This material also gives this wallet a smooth texture that can develop unique marks over time.
There are 7 card slots, 2 current pockets, 2 slip pockets, and a front ID window. The ID window offers instant and easy access, which is convenient for traveling. Equipped with the great RFID blocking technology, this wallet is safe storage for your private and financial cards.
Furthermore, the compact, small, and lightweight silhouette stays nicely in your pocket and provides comfort for traveling.
18. KUKOO Credit Card Holder Case for Women RFID Small Printed

Last but not least, the KUKOO College student wallets feature adorable 3D printing patterns and bright multicolored designs that are appealing to women and girls. There are several design options such as leopard, reel, elephant, owl, rose, flamingo, etc.
Made of top-quality leather that is soft and durable, this wallet remains its beauty over time. Therefore, by paying only less than $10, you can use this wallet for a lifetime without replacement. The measurement is only 4.60 x 3.34 x 1.20 inches but the interior features roomy space for your different cards. Besides the multiple card slots, there are 2 compartments for coins, receipts, bills, and cash. The accordion design broadens the wallet’s coverage while providing instant and easy access to your cards.
Thanks to the advanced RFID technology, this leather card holder wallet offers great privacy security as it prevents your banking information, driver’s licenses, credit cards, and other RFID cards from unwanted scanning.
19. Lethnic Small Leather Trifold Wallet – NOBLE – Free Engraving

Once again, Lethnic’s new college student wallets are included in my list of the best mens designer wallet. There are many good points and outstanding features.
- First, made of Nappa leather, this best minimalist wallet offers an exquisite shape and smooth touch. Also because of the high-quality material, the beauty of the wallet remains over time.
- Second, the style of the nice combination of two contrasting colors is very eye-catching and fashionable. And with the small and compact size, you can easily carry this wallet for traveling, dating, and daily use.
Another good point of Lethnic is its innovative design for roomy capacity. Thanks to 1 hidden pocket, 7 card slots, and 1 big bill compartment, you can hold cash, ID, cards, and even a condom. There are two extra slots where you can put your sim card and micro SD.
To protect your private information from scanning, this one is designed with RFID blocking technology. Another good point of this Student ID wallet is that it has slim and minimalist construction. And the brand is willing to give you free personal engraving. Just send them your initials, name, or a lovely quote, they will help make your wallet unique and meaningful.
20. Cyanb Slim Leather Card Case Holder Front Pocket Wallet Change –

The second cheap-price wallet in this collection, but this time, the Cyanb card holder wallet is crafted from high-quality PU leather. But don’t quickly skip it because you’ve got a hassle-free return or exchange warranty provided by the manufacturer. So, let keep peace in mind!
Actually, that’s also the reason that gives me more confidence to give this a try and I’m glad I haven’t regretted yet. It’s really soft, but durable with a zipper closure. Not to mention to the superbly slim silhouette of 4.25” (L)* 3.42 (W)” that can stay nicely in any pocket.
I appreciate the zippered pocket that meets all kinds of versatility – keeping cards, coins, cash, keys, and even my earphones. Seem pretty simple and minimal, but large and well-organized in construction. Besides, there’s also an attached key chain and key ring that you can hook to keys, belts, car mounts, backpacks, or anywhere you’d to. Aside from this wonderful slot, there are 6 other card slots that can fit 6-7, enough for daily essentials, if you’re a minimalist person.
It’s your turn now!
Don’t waste any more time, just consider and pick to start a whole new journey of your life! It’s time now for you to be the boss of yourself, so why don’t start from the most basic step – managing your essentials as well as control your daily expense. A wallet for College students is surely the best partner!