Jewelry is more than just a fashion statement; it’s how we define ourselves. That jangly bracelet, your grandmother’s ring, those earrings you got on your 21st birthday. They’re a part of who you are. Of course, sometimes jewelry is also just a fun way to update an outfit or celebrate an important event. And sometimes…it’s just too pretty to leave it tucked away in your jewelry box. Regardless of the reason, you don’t need to leave your jewelry at home while on vacation, If you plan ahead, do some research, and protect yourself in advance, you can travel with your jewelry easily and securely.
Choosing What To Take
We wear jewelry for a lot of reasons, and just because you’re traveling doesn’t mean you have to leave your favorite jewels at home. It’s all about making the right choices. When first deciding whether or not to pack your favorite accessories, consider the following:
- Travel only with a small amount of jewelry
- Pick jewelry that’s comfortable to wear – avoid loose rings or tricky clasps.
- Choose pieces that can be replaced relatively easily.
As you make your selection, don’t focus just on cost. The monetary value of a piece shouldn’t be your only consideration. Wedding rings, graduation gifts, and other mementos can be heartbreaking to lose and impossible to replace. If you’re planning an extravagant proposal (at the top of the Eiffel Tower, for example), consider the difficulties you might encounter navigating customs before deciding to pack a diamond ring.
Taking a moment to weigh the risks and benefits of taking your jewelry with you on your trip will set you up for success. When in doubt, keep it simple. Focus on comfort and ease and limit, and pick the pieces that will make the most impact with the least risk.
How to Pack Jewelry for Your Trip
When packing your jewelry, each item needs to be treated differently. Necklaces can tangle and knot. Rings can get lost in side-pockets or get bent if left unprotected. Bracelets can snag, and earrings can be elusive. As you bundle up your favorite pieces, here are some tips that will help keep everything organized and undamaged:
- Use straws to keep chains tangle-free
- Roll bracelets up in a washcloth before storing them individually in a ziplock bag
- Use buttons and cardboard to keep both the front and back of your earrings in one piece
If juggling all of the above sounds daunting, a travel jewelry bag might be your best option. These come in all types and sizes, from jewelry rolls to pouches. The overall idea is to pick a storage container that will keep everything organized and damage-free. Taking a few minutes to plan as you pack will make it easier to manage your jewelry when you arrive at your destination.
The Ways You Can Protect Your Jewelry While Traveling
As you embark on your journey, protecting your jewelry should be a priority. No one wants to spend their vacation searching for a misplaced pearl or watch. Check on your items from time to time to make sure everything is accounted for. When traveling with jewelry, the best option is to have a plan.
The following tips can help you avoid loss or theft while traveling:
- Keep your jewelry nearby at all times: wear it or pack it in a carryon
- Don’t leave jewelry unattended: leave it in the hotel safe or take it with you
- Make sure your jewelry is properly insured: pay for extra coverage, including worldwide policies
- Get an appraisal: a record of each item’s value will help you with recovery or insurance compensation
- Don’t wear jewelry during strenuous activities: hiking, swimming, even sunbathing can lead to loss or damage
These steps will allow you to have fun on your vacation without risking your favorite pieces.
Purchasing Jewelry While on Vacation
One of the best parts about a vacation is seeking out the perfect souvenir. Jewelry is a great option when you want to commemorate a specific travel adventure or bring back an example of the local culture.
Here are some additional tips to help you make the right jewelry purchasing decisions while traveling:
- Inform Yourself: research stores and brands, and learn more about taxes, customs and other potential fees and regulations
- Pick the Right Form of Payment: in general, credit cards are your best option because they come with built-in consumer protections while also providing a record of your purchase
- Decide in advance if you will use a merchants shipping options – sometimes the best idea is to buy your item and have it sent to your home address separately
When the Worst Happens – What to do if Your Jewelry is Lost or Stolen
Oh no! Your biggest fear has come true. You checked your luggage, your jewelry bag, even your pockets, but your favorite ring, necklace, etc. is nowhere to be found. Nothing can ruin a vacation quicker than losing a favorite piece of jewelry, but sometimes accidents (or theft) is unavoidable.
When the worst happens, here’s what you need to do:
- If the loss happened en route – file a claim with TSA (you can file these online)
- If the loss happened at your hotel – contact the front desk immediately, then local authorities
- Get a police report – you will need that number/record for the TSA and your insurance claim
- Contact Your Credit Card – if you recently purchased the item with your credit card, that purchase may be protected
- File a claim – let your insurance agent or broker know as soon as possible so that the claims process can begin
Look Sharp, Stay Safe
Traveling with jewelry doesn’t have to be complicated, and a little bit of planning can go a long way. Start by selecting what you’ll take and what you’ll leave behind. While packing, follow a few simple tips and tricks to keep everything neat, clean, and tangle-free. If you plan on buying jewelry during your trip, have a plan on how you’ll get it home safe and sound. Finally, be prepared in case the worst happens. That means having information on your insurance coverage and who you can contact for help. With just these few simple steps, you can enjoy your trip without having to give up your style.
