Tips for Traveling with Fine Jewelry

When you’re on vacation or a work trip you want to look your best, so naturally, you might plan on packing some fine jewelry. You may buy luxury jewelry online or in stores, but when you travel with valuables, you risk something getting lost, stolen, or damaged, and no one likes unpacking their delicate chains to find them twisted in a pile of knots. Then there’s the issue of keeping everything safe once you’ve arrived at your destination. Where will you keep your glitzy gems when you’re at the beach, in a business meeting, or on a casual excursion?

Below are 6 tips to help keep your fine jewelry safe and sound during your next trip so you can get the most out of your experience — and look good while doing it!

1. Stick with the essentials 

It may be tempting to bring your entire jewelry collection “just in case,” especially if you’re a habitual over-packer. But in this case, it’s best to bring a few versatile pieces that go with multiple outfits. Remember: the more you bring, the bigger the risk that something will get lost or damaged. If you want to play it safe, only bring pieces you can wear together so you can keep them on if you must.

2. Keep jewelry in carry-o

It’s a rule of thumb to keep valuables in a carry-on, never in a checked suitcase. Your belongings will get jostled in your luggage, and sometimes, checked bags get lost. Consider wearing your most precious pieces when your en-route so you can keep them especially close.

3. Pack each piece properly

With that said, you can’t just toss your baubles in a bag and go on your way. Carefully pack your gems in one of these luxury jewelry boxes that are designed to keep jewelry protected and tangle-free. You can also try DIY tricks, like stringing earrings through buttons, separating small pieces with pillboxes, or laying chains on a towel then rolling it up. Make sure to keep soft gems in individual pouches or pockets to avoid scratching; for instance, don’t pack your pearls with your diamond studs!

4. Consider keeping your jewelry with you at all times.

If you’re out and about shopping and sightseeing, it’s not a bad idea to tuck your valuables in an interior pocket of your purse. Of course, if that somehow gets stolen, you’re definitely out of luck. Zippered crossbody purses may be safer than backpacks or open totes since they’re hands-free and you can hold on to the pouch in crowded areas.

5. Take advantage of the in-room safe

Most hotel rooms have a small safe inside, and If you have to leave your jewels behind, make sure to lock them up when you leave.

6. Make sure everything is insured

Your expensive jewelry should always be insured, and if you’re planning on taking a trip, now is a great time to check your policy. Make sure everything is updated, your appraisals are current, and your pricey pieces are covered for accidental loss or damage.