Jet. Set. Sparkle: How to travel with expensive jewellery

Your jewellery deserves to travel in style and safety. But when it comes to holidaying with high-value pieces like engagement rings and heirlooms, it’s natural to be concerned about those “what if” moments like loss, damage and theft.

While we recommend leaving your most precious pieces at home when you holiday, it’s sometimes just not possible. Perhaps you're eloping, having a destination wedding or bringing an outfit that simply needs that ring.

There are moments when your jewellery just has to come along for the ride. Here’s how to make sure it’s as protected as possible while you’re on the move.

Pack smart

How you pack can make all the difference. Bring a discreet, compact jewellery travel case with padded dividers to keep your rings, necklaces and earrings safe and snug. 

Reusable pouches and soft cloth wraps can also be a lifesaver:

• Rings: Store rings in individual bags to keep them protected in turbulent weather and on the go.
• Necklaces: Lay chain necklaces flat on a soft cloth or jewellery roll. Fold the cloth over the pendant and roll it up snugly. Wrap any remaining chain around the roll and place it into a protective bag.
• Earrings: Pierce a small card with a needle and insert your earrings, making sure they don't rattle or touch each other. Secure the backs to keep them in place. Trim the card to fit into a travel pouch or jewellery case.

Carry on

Keep your jewellery in your carry-on bag to avoid having to place it in a public screening tray at airport security. Small pieces of precious metal jewellery can usually be kept on and generally don't set off metal detectors, however large pieces may need to be removed. Don't check in your jewellery as checked luggage is more likely to get lost or mishandled.

Wear it wisely

Avoid wearing flashy pieces while traveling through high-traffic areas like airports or on public transport. Keep it simple and secure until you reach your destination. When not wearing your jewellery, store it in the hotel safe instead of leaving it in your room or luggage.

Insure before you go

Traveling with valuable jewellery comes with risks, but proper insurance can provide peace of mind. Before your trip, check with your insurer to make sure your pieces are covered for loss, theft and damage, even when you’re abroad. Keep detailed photos, receipts and valuations of your jewellery on the cloud to make it easy to file a claim while travelling.

Some home and contents policies only cover jewellery while it’s in your home, so you may need to speak to your insurer about portable contents insurance. 

Alternatively, consider a specialist jewellery insurer. While we often refer our customers to Q Report, we aren't affiliated with them and recommend that you choose a provider that suits your needs. 

Be beach-savvy

Sand, sunscreen and saltwater might be great for your beach day, but they’re not so kind to your jewellery. Remove your jewellery and store it in a travel case or pouch to keep it secure and protected from the elements.

Other than oil, grime and the risk of scratching your jewellery, you should remove your pieces before swimming for two big reasons:

• Salt water and chlorine can damage precious metal alloys, causing brittleness and weakening the jewellery over time
• Cold water can make your fingers shrink, increasing the risk of your rings slipping off and getting lost

When it comes to fine jewellery, it's best to be safe, not sorry.

Keep it clean

Pack a soft polishing cloth or jewellery cleaner to give your pieces a quick refresh on the go. Our eco-friendly jewellery cleaning foam is perfect for removing residue from sunscreen and daily wear. Compact and travel-friendly, it ensures your jewellery stays radiant wherever your journey takes you. Here are more tips on how to clean your jewellery.

Take a storyworthy piece on your next journey

Thinking of a custom design for your next getaway? Book a consult to start the conversation.