As we turn the corner to August, family vacations are in full swing. Many people are in a hurry to squeeze in last-minute trips before the new school year begins, so they’re headed to the beach, the mountains, the city—or even overseas. If you’re among the many people who will be traveling this month, we hope you’ll take a few minutes to think about what’s at stake when you take your jewelry with you. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Leave your best items at home. Although it may be tempting to pack your favorite piece of fine jewelry, consider that the risk of losing it may be too high. This not only includes your most expensive items, but also those with a high emotional value—pieces that just can’t be replaced. Instead, stick with some of your inexpensive pieces, and focus on having a good time. A precious piece of jewelry that is misplaced could ruin your vacation.
- Keep it simple. If you like to accessorize—and who doesn’t—it may be difficult to plan your vacation wardrobe without some of your favorite pieces of jewelry. But it makes more sense to simplify the process by packing a few neutral pieces that will do well with several outfits.
- Carry it with you. If you’re traveling by plane, it’s a good idea to either wear your jewelry, keep it in your purse or backpack, or pack it in your carry-on bag. Remember, luggage can get lost, and you don’t want your finest jewelry pieces to be in that lost bag.
- Make sure your jewelry is insured before you leave. Remember, most homeowners policies typically only insure jewelry up to about $1,000. You can easily exceed that amount just by losing your engagement ring. So, before you depart, schedule an up-to-date appraisal, and then adjust your insurance accordingly. If your jewelry is lost, stolen or damaged, you want it to be adequately covered.
- Take a photo. Before you leave, photograph the jewelry you plan to take along. You’ll not only have an instant inventory of what you’re taking, but if something is lost or stolen, you have proof that it belongs to you.
Pack Like A Pro
- Get a case. Frequent travelers don’t leave home without a travel jewelry case. Consider investing in a case with compartments that can easily house your jewelry items.
- Use straws. Keep your necklace chains from getting tangled by slipping one end of the necklace through the end of a drinking straw. Close the clasp, and you’re ready to go. Toilet paper rolls serve the same purpose for bulkier necklaces.
- Button it up. Use spare buttons to organize your earrings. Simply feed the earrings through the button holes and close the backs. Then place the buttons in a small bag for transport.
- Pack a pill box. Daily pill boxes are good for packing your medication, but they work equally well for packing your smaller pieces of jewelry, including earrings, rings and more.
Whether you’re heading to a lakeside cottage or a hotel in the big city, a little extra attention to packing your jewelry goes a long way. When it comes to traveling with jewelry, keep it simple and play it safe. Sometimes that means leaving your most precious pieces at home.
Jeff Johnson & Co. is a full-service jeweler located in Upper Arlington, Ohio. We specialize in custom engagement rings, keepsakes for significant moments, and giving new life to family heirlooms. Our gemologists are trained by the Gemological Institute of America, and they work closely with each customer to ensure that we meet your vision and beyond. Stop by our showroom at 5025 Arlington Centre Blvd. (off Henderson Road), call 614-459-8890, or jjandcompany.com. You can also follow us on Facebook at Jeff Johnson & Co.
