9 Smart Items to Keep in Password Managers Besides Just Passwords

Harnessing the full potential of your password manager goes beyond merely storing passwords. By transforming it into a secure hub for various sensitive data, you can significantly enhance its functionality. Many password management applications come equipped with features tailored for storing a wealth of private information.

1. Credit Card Information

While it’s common to keep credit card credentials in your password manager, consider adding vital details such as the card numbers, cancellation phone numbers, interest rates, and any pertinent notes regarding promotional periods or balance transfers. Most password managers allow annotations, which can help you track special offers, expiration dates, and monthly payment plans for timely settling of dues.

Although browser-integrated managers, like Google Password Manager, can handle credit card information, they may not provide the highest level of security.

Genius Things To Store In Password Managers Beyond Passwords Credit — Image source: Unsplash

2. Banking Details

In conjunction with your passwords, it is wise to include banking information such as account numbers and member IDs. Keeping this data organized ensures you have everything at your fingertips, especially when you need to contact your bank for assistance.

3. Important Contacts

Although smartphones provide an easy way to save contacts, utilizing your password manager for this purpose offers an added layer of security. This practice ensures essential contact information remains accessible even if your phone is lost or the cloud backup fails. Furthermore, it allows for the discreet storage of contacts you prefer to keep private.

For instance, I hold onto my pen pal’s mailing address and email within my password manager, ensuring I never misplace this information. It streamlines my access to important data without the hassle of juggling multiple apps.

4. Sensitive Notes

Storing passwords in unsecured note-taking apps is ill-advised; however, saving private notes within a password manager is a smart move. Make sure to select a password manager that supports note storage.

While this isn’t about maintaining a journal, using your manager for private shopping lists, crucial documents, medical information, and financial tracking can be exceptionally beneficial.

5. Identification and Important Documents

The capability to store identification documents, like your passport, driver’s license, and insurance card, may vary by application. Some password managers permit the secure uploading of these essential documents, offering increased protection compared to conventional cloud storage solutions.

Two passwords being held. — Image source: Unsplash

6. Technology Licenses and Codes

While cloud-based services have reduced our engagement with software licenses, we still possess numerous tech codes such as Wi-Fi passwords, digital licenses, backup codes, and PIN numbers that can be effectively stored in your manager.

7. Passkeys & Recovery Codes

The transition to passkeys as a secure alternative to traditional passwords is gaining traction. These passkeys are linked to specific devices, heightening concern should the device be lost. In such scenarios, recovery codes come into play, allowing you to access your accounts or reestablish passkey settings.

Fortunately, most passkey providers offer backup options, so keep your recovery codes securely stored within your favorite password manager for convenience.

8. Security Questions and MFA Responses

Though multifactor authentication enhances account security, remembering the answers to security questions can be challenging, especially if you set them years ago. Fortunately, adding these details to your password manager when creating new accounts can mitigate the risk of being locked out.

9. Travel Plans

Your travel arrangements are personal information that should remain confidential. By storing flight numbers, accommodation addresses, and booking confirmations in your password manager, you keep everything organized and private. Consider creating a specific entry for travel-related notes or even secure bookings to maintain confidentiality and accessibility.

Selecting the Ideal Password Manager

No universal solution exists, as the right password manager depends on your specific needs. My personal preference is KeePass because it’s an offline option, but that may not suit everyone.

Bitwarden on a phone. — Image source: Unsplash

If you prioritize note-taking, 1Password features a secure notes section. For managing passkeys and IDs, Bitwarden allows for excellent storage solutions and provides assessments on compromised or weak passwords within your vault.

For a comprehensive file-securement option, consider NordPass, which works similarly to Bitwarden but includes premium file attachment features. A variety of choices are available, ensuring you can find a manager that fits your needs perfectly.

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