Traveling with Luxury Jewelry and Watches: How to Protect your Valuable Items

In recent years, there has been a significant shift in how younger generations approach luxury. While studies show that millennials and Gen Z are more interested in experiences than possessions, the reality is that this cohort often desires both — luxury goods like jewelry and watches, paired with travel and adventure.^1,2 The question is: how can these younger collectors enjoy and safeguard their prized possessions while on the go?

According to market analysts, by 2030, millennials (Gen Y) will account for 50-55% of luxury purchasers, while Gen Z will contribute 25-30%. Together with Gen Alpha, these three generations are expected to drive nearly 85% of global luxury purchases — including watches and jewelry.² While these luxuries continue to rise in popularity among younger generations, travel is equally important to them. In fact, travel has become an essential part of their lifestyle.

According to a 2023 Statista survey, 76% of Gen Z and 72% of millennials express a keen interest in travel — a stark contrast to the Baby Boomer generation, which places less emphasis on travel.³ This desire for exploration often overlaps with the ownership of luxury items. Whether visiting an under-the-radar destination or attending a glamorous event, fine jewelry and watches accompany them as part of their adventures.

While traveling with a vintage ring or collectible watch can elevate the experience, it can also pose unique risks:

• How Social Media Can Make You a Target for Theft: While social media can be an exciting way to share new luxury acquisitions, users who post about their new jewelry or watch can inadvertently reveal their locations and travel plans. That makes them prime targets for theft.
• Why Small Luxury Items Are Easy to Lose While Traveling: Small luxury items like rings, earrings and watches can be easy to misplace, especially while traveling. Whether it slips off a finger, gets stolen from luggage, or simply goes missing from a hotel room, these items are susceptible to loss in ways that many collectors may not expect.
• Does Your Insurance Cover Luxury Jewelry and Watches When Traveling?: Many younger luxury buyers assume that their homeowner's insurance will cover the loss of valuable items while traveling. However, most standard homeowner's policies provide limited coverage, with low sub-limits for jewelry and watches and a deductible. To adequately protect their pieces, collectors should look for a specialized Valuable Articles Coverage insurance policy that offers worldwide, all-risk coverage, including for mysterious disappearance and theft.

To ensure that their luxury jewelry and watches are protected while traveling, collectors should follow these practical tips:

• What Insurance Do You Need for Jewelry and Watches: A comprehensive Valuable Articles policy, covering valuable items while traveling, can provide peace of mind and protection against theft, loss, or damage.
• Why Regular Appraisals Are Essential: Regular appraisals not only help keep insurance coverage up to date but also give collectors an accurate understanding of the value of their items. Work with a qualified appraiser with expertise in the item being appraised.
• How to Check Jewelry and Watches for Damage Before Traveling: Damaged items are more likely to break (and disappear) while traveling. So before embarking on a trip, ensure that jewelry and watches are in good condition.
• Best Ways to Pack Luxury Items for Travel and Avoid Theft: Pack luxury items securely, using padded pouches, a soft cloth to separate items, and nondescript boxes to minimize the risk of damage and theft during transit.
• Why You Should Keep Jewelry and Watches Close While Traveling: Never leave valuable items unattended in luggage or bags at the hotel, in a restaurant, or in a public space. Avoid storing high value items in the in-room hotel safe as they can be easily accessed.
• Should You Use an In-Room Hotel Safe for Storing Expensive Jewelry: High value items should be stored in the hotel's main vault. Consider calling your hotel ahead of time to review secure storage options for guests' valuables. 

As younger generations continue to embrace both luxury goods and travel, it’s important to stay informed about the risks associated with traveling with high-value jewelry and watches. By understanding the potential vulnerabilities and taking proactive steps to protect their possessions, next-gen collectors can continue to enjoy their luxury items with confidence, no matter where their adventures take them.

For more detailed information on insuring your valuables, check out these resources:

• Guide to insuring your jewelry
• Watch Market Trends & Tips
• Jewelry Market Trends & Tips