8 Tips for Traveling with Your Fine Jewelry

Packing for a vacation or business trip? You may be wondering if you should bring along your favorite jewelry pieces. Whatever your destination, there’s no need to leave your best look at home. While all travel comes with risk, you can reduce the chances of theft, damage, or loss by taking the following precautions.

Keep it close.

Never stow your fine jewelry pieces in your luggage, or they could end up in another city halfway across the world. It’s best to take your jewelry as a carry-on item, so you will know where it is at all times. With that said, you’ll need to keep a close watch on your carry-on bag in case someone has targeted you for theft. Remember that airline staff are not responsible for valuables lost in checked baggage. For peace of mind, always keep your jewelry with you.

Alert officials, when necessary. 

If your insurance provider requires you to notify them of travel, be sure to do so. Also, for international travel, remember that you are required to report to Customs the transport of any goods with a value exceeding $10,000. Some countries have strict customs rules regarding the export of precious metals and stones. Do your research to avoid delays or penalties.

If you’re not sure about your coverage, the team at John Atencio can help. John has arranged for the Jewelers Mutual Insurance Group to offer his customers coverage for their jewelry purchases. He can facilitate a free quote from Jewelers Mutual at any of his store locations. Since 1913, Jewelers Mutual has been the only insurer dedicated exclusively to jewelry, providing comprehensive worldwide protection against loss, theft, damage, or disappearance.

Snap photos. 

It’s always a good idea to snap a few photos of all the jewelry you plan to take. This way, if a piece is lost and then eventually found, you can use the photos to prove it’s yours. You may also be able to use the photos to help make a claim with your insurance provider. For added peace of mind, store digital copies of receipts or appraisals on your phone or cloud service.

Keep it secure. 

Be sure to book a hotel room with a safe, so you can secure your jewelry when you’re not wearing it. Whether you’re swimming at the pool or working out at the hotel gym, it’s nice to know your valuable jewelry pieces are safely locked up where no one can get them.

If a hotel safe isn’t available, you may be able to ask the front desk to store your jewelry in the hotel’s safe. Otherwise, consider bringing a portable travel safe or a discreet storage pouch that you can lock in your luggage or hide in your room.

At the same time, you need to make smart choices about when to wear your jewelry. This may mean not wearing glittery diamond jewelry pieces in dangerous urban areas. It definitely means not wearing it in the following circumstances:

• In cold water: The cold temperature of lakes, oceans, rivers, and pools can temporarily shrink your finger size, allowing rings to slip off easily.
• In the pool or hot tub: Chlorine can discolor or damage metals such as platinum and gold; it can also erode the polish and finish of gemstones.
• In harsh sunlight: UV rays can bleach or discolor some jewelry materials.
• While applying sunscreen: Substances in lotion and bug spray can get stuck in prongs, chains, and crevices, creating a film on your jewelry that makes it look dull.
  

Consider a Jewelry Travel Case

Good organization strategies can prevent both damage and loss. Jewelry rolls, zippered pouches with compartments, and compact travel cases are all excellent choices for protecting your collection on the go. Look for designs that include:

• Separate sections for rings, necklaces, and earrings
• Soft linings to prevent scratches
• Zippers or snaps to secure contents

Some travelers also use pill boxes as a budget-friendly alternative. These can be surprisingly effective for small items like stud earrings or dainty chains. If you’re interested in premium storage, John Atencio offers elegant, secure travel case options tailored to your collection.

Stay organized.

Need to keep your jewelry from getting scratched or tangled? Monday through Sunday pill boxes are ideal for storing and organizing jewelry. They’re inexpensive and sturdy. They can even help you plan what to wear every day of the week. Most importantly, they can protect your jewelry pieces from getting damaged by the other contents in your bags.

Know when to conceal.

We all want to flaunt our most beautiful jewelry pieces. In certain instances, however, discretion is the smarter option. If you find yourself in a dangerous or unknown area, conceal expensive jewelry from prying eyes. While it may be hard to resist showing off your rings, bracelets, and necklaces, you don't want to make yourself a target.

Get Insured

Has your jewelry been appraised and insured? Does your policy cover worldwide travel? Do you have any type of travel insurance that will cover jewelry?

Always be sure you have an insurance policy and understand its limitations. Consider updating your appraisals before you travel to ensure that you're covered for common causes of loss.

John Atencio can connect you with trusted jewelry insurance providers who specialize in comprehensive protection. It’s generally best to reappraise your jewelry every 3 to 5 years, or before major travel, to ensure that your coverage is accurate. Also, be sure to review policy exclusions, especially for international travel.

What Jewelry Should You Travel With?

Not all jewelry is meant to travel. Choose pieces that are versatile, durable, and easily replaceable.

Consider packing:

• Items that mix and match well with multiple outfits
• Timeless staples like a favorite chain necklace, stud earrings, or a simple diamond ring
• Lightweight jewelry that won’t cause discomfort during long travel days

Certain styles are simply more travel-friendly than others. The best options balance beauty with practicality. Top travel picks include:

• Classic hoop or stud earrings that elevate casual and formal outfits
• Stackable bands worn solo or layered for variety
• Rings with low profiles or smooth edges that won’t snag on clothing
• Convertible pieces like necklaces that double as bracelets

These styles combine elegance and ease, making them ideal companions for any getaway.

No matter where you’re going, a vacation should be a break from daily worries. For most leisure travel, it’s best to leave behind anything you might worry about losing. If something has significant emotional or monetary value, consider leaving it at home unless it’s a critical part of an outfit for a special trip event.

You should also avoid bringing anything with large center stones or difficult-to-replace pieces. John Atencio consultants can help you select travel-friendly jewelry that blends security with sophistication. If you’re planning an upcoming trip, stop by one of his convenient locations. 

FAQs About Traveling with Jewelry

Q: Can I wear my jewelry through airport security?

A: Yes, small fine jewelry typically does not trigger metal detectors. However, large or layered items may require manual inspection.

Q: Should I travel with my engagement ring?

A: Only if you’re comfortable doing so. If you wear it daily and have it insured, it’s usually safe. For high-risk destinations, consider leaving it at home or using a substitute ring.

Q: How do I insure my jewelry for international travel?

A: Contact your jewelry insurance provider to confirm international coverage and update your appraisals. John Atencio’s team can assist with both.

Q: What’s the safest way to pack jewelry?

A: Always store each piece in a soft-lined case or pouch and keep it in your carry-on. Never pack your valuable jewelry in checked luggage.