You travel to enjoy yourself, right? Does losing, damaging or having your jewelry stolen sound enjoyable?
Didn't think so.
Read on for five precautions to take while traveling with jewelry.
1. Wear it or carry it on
If you can wear the jewelry you're traveling with, that's the safest option. (As long as you take heed of #5.)
If not, the next best option is to pack it in your carry-on bag. Never pack your jewelry inside any luggage you plan to check. There are too many opportunities for damage or theft along the journey of a checked bag.
2. All eyes on the bag
If you do pack your jewelry in a carry-on bag, make sure to handle it yourself the whole time. Don't hand it off to any airport personnel, cab drivers, bellhops or anyone you don't trust with your valuables.
3. Safe is safest
Once you arrive at your destination, store your jewelry in the hotel safe. Not the bag you brought it in. Not the dresser you store your clothes in. Not even the safe in your room.
Bring it to the front desk and ask them if they allow guests to utilize their main safe for their valuables.
4. When not to wear it
While having your jewelry on your body where you can see and feel it at all times is a great way to keep an eye on your valuables, you also need to know when to take them off.
Swimming or at the beach/pool: Saltwater, chlorine, and sand can damage metals and stones.
Exercising or outdoor adventures: Hiking, biking, or water sports increase the risk of scratches, loss, or breakage.
Sleeping: Rings, bracelets, or necklaces can get bent, caught, or damaged while you sleep.
Crowded tourist spots: Pickpockets or accidental knocks in busy areas put jewelry at risk.
While doing chores or manual work: Packing, lifting, or cleaning can lead to scratches or lost pieces.
5. Conceal, don't reveal
Whenever you wear jewelry in public, take measures to draw as little attention to yourself as possible. Obviously you wear jewelry to be seen, but if you find yourself in a crowded area ;or place that you consider risky for possible theft, take precautions like turning your ring around so the stone faces your palm or tucking a pendant into your shirt.
You want to show off your gorgeous pieces, but not if it means tempting thieving eyes.
Now that you know these great safety tips for traveling with jewelry, how are you going to remember them all? We made some checklists for that. Check out our guide to traveling with jewelry and use it as a quick reference next time you're ready to take off on your next adventure!
