Traveling with jewelry? Read this first

When you’re buzzing with excitement for a holiday, it’s easy to focus on outfits, SPF, and your itinerary.

But before you jet off, there’s one thing many travelers overlook: jewelry.

Those sentimental, high-value pieces — like engagement rings — deserve special care if you plan to bring them along.

According to Tobias Kormind, jewelry expert and Managing Director of 77 Diamonds, taking expensive rings abroad is a growing trend — but one that could expose travelers to unnecessary risks.

“It can lead to theft, loss, damage, and complicated insurance claims, which may result in significant financial losses,” Kormind warns.

So how can you keep your jewelry safe when you travel? Here are his top tips and the mistakes to avoid.

✅ Check Your Insurance Policy

One of the biggest misconceptions is assuming travel insurance covers jewelry. “Most standard travel policies — and even homeowners or renters insurance — have strict limits, often capping jewelry coverage at $500–$1,500, far below the value of most engagement rings,” Kormind explains.

If your ring is worth thousands, you may need a rider or specialist jewelry insurance policy that offers worldwide coverage. These typically cost 1–2% of the item’s value annually but give you peace of mind. Always carry documentation (like proof of ownership) when traveling, in case of customs questions or insurance claims.

⚠️ Beware of Policy Exclusions

Even if you’re insured, read the fine print. “Many policies won’t pay out if your ring was left unattended — even briefly — or kept in a hotel room but not in a safe,” says Kormind.

Other common exclusions? Swimming and beach time. Rings are more likely to slip off in water, but many policies don’t cover those scenarios.

🚫 Don’t Advertise Your Jewelry

It might be tempting to post that dreamy “just engaged” photo with your ring glistening on the Amalfi Coast — but doing so can make you a target.

Kormind cautions: “Social media posts showcasing your engagement ring at identifiable locations can attract unwanted attention. To avoid stress, stay in your engagement bubble abroad and wait until you’ve returned home to share.”

💍 Consider Travel-Friendly Alternatives

If you can’t bear the thought of leaving your ring behind, a temporary substitute may be your best option.

Silicone or metal bands: Practical, affordable, and worry-free.
Moissanite rings: A luxe-looking alternative at a fraction of the price of a diamond.

Kormind advises against fake designer replicas: “Although replicas can look realistic, they can still draw the wrong kind of attention and cause complications. A simpler alternative is safer.”

So before you travel…

“Losing an engagement ring on holiday can be devastating — it’s both financially valuable and emotionally priceless,” Kormind says. “The smartest approach is either to leave valuable pieces securely at home or ensure you have specialist insurance that truly covers their value.”

Because while your holiday should be about making memories, losing a ring could turn it into one you’ll never want to remember.