Knowing how to pack jewelry for travel can be a daunting task. With the potential for tangling, theft, and damage, packing these delicate and often costly items can be a challenge. But don’t worry! I have gathered some tips and tricks to help you keep your jewelry safe and secure while on your journey regardless of your destination.
Here’s a fun video I made to show you some traditional and creative ways to pack your jewelry for travel! No tangled necklaces here! It doesn’t cover everything I mention in this article, though, so keep reading for more tips.
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How to Pack Jewelry for Travel to Keep It Safe
When traveling, of course you want to keep your jewelry secure. The best way to do this for expensive jewelry items is to store each item of jewelry separately, in its own pouch or box. This will help to prevent any scratches or damage to the pieces. Diamonds, in particular, should be stored away from other items as they can cause scratches or damage to other jewelry.
If possible, keep your jewelry in a secure place, such as a locked carry-on bag or suitcase. This will help you to avoid pickpockets and is smart in case your luggage gets lost.
When leaving jewelry in a hotel room, make sure it is locked in a safe or stored in a secure area. And if you’ve got really valuable pieces, before leaving, always double-check that all the jewelry is accounted for.
Taking these precautions can help your jewelry remains safe and secure while traveling.
13 Ways to Pack Jewelry for Travel
Here are thirteen ways to pack your jewelry for your travels so that items are protected and kept from tangling. Some of these jewelry organizers you can purchase online before your trip, while the others you may have at home already!
1. Travel Jewelry Box
Let’s start with a classic: the jewelry box. Jewelry cases for travel are the perfect way to store and protect jewelry while on the go. They are available in many sizes and styles to accommodate different types of jewelry pieces and preferences.
Travel jewelry cases have compartments to keep items organized and padded to protect fragile items. They also often come with locks to keep items secure while traveling. With these boxes, you can easily take your jewelry along with you and keep it safe from harm.
I love this soft velvet box because it protects what’s inside, has a little built-in mirror, and has just the right number of spaces for the minimalistic jewelry traveler. You can see the top section of the box (what’s behind the mirror) in the top right of the photo above.
It comes in a lot of different colors and is set in a nice box when you get it.
It’s so cute that it actually makes for a great gift, too!(Here’s a post on some other great travel gifts for women!)
What it’s not good for:
- A lot of jewelry
- Big earrings
- Big bracelets/stacking bangles
- Chunky necklaces
2. Pill Case
A pill case organizer is the ideal solution for traveling with small jewelry pieces. Just don’t mix your jewelry with your pills!
These small, portable containers can be used to store and organize jewelry items such as rings, earrings, and small necklaces. Some versions even divide into several compartments, making it easy to pack multiple pieces in one place.
Additionally, a pill case organizer is lightweight and easy to carry, making it ideal for packing jewelry when traveling.
What it’s not good for:
- A lot of jewelry
- Big jewelry of any kind
3. Straw For Necklaces
The “loop a necklace through a straw” technique is a great way to protect jewelry when traveling. This method involves slipping a necklace chain through a straw and creating a loop to hold both ends of the chain in place. This loop prevents the chain from becoming tangled and keeps the necklace from being damaged.
I only had reusable straws available to test out this method, and while it’s doable, you’ll probably prefer straws you can cut to size. (I love my reusable colorful straws because they’re a fun way for guests to tell their drinks apart!)
Since my straws are pretty long, I put thin necklaces that fit all the way through the straw and attached a separate bracelet on the outside.
This method is simple, affordable, and a great way to keep necklaces tangle-free while traveling. If you’re using disposable straws, you can cut them in thirds for thin bracelets, too.
What it’s not good for:
- Chunky necklaces/bracelets, unless you’re attaching them on the outside of the straw
- Anything other than necklaces and bracelets
4. Jewelry Rolls
Here’s a more flexible option compared to the travel jewelry box.
Jewelry roll organizers are another perfect solution for packing jewelry for travel. Typically compact and lightweight, these travel cases are designed to keep your jewelry organized and protected during long trips.
They tend to be lined with a soft material, such as velvet, your jewelry is safe from scratches and damage. The roll-up design makes it easy to store and transport and several pockets and compartments are included for organizing your jewelry.
Jewelry rolls come in a variety of colors, styles, and price ranges, making them a great option!
I love the Bagsmart jewelry case. In fact, it’s my method of choice for how to pack jewelry for travel!
This travel jewelry roll comes in multiple colors and two different sizes. I got the small case since I don’t travel with a ton of jewelry. If you’re traveling with more jewelry than me, the medium offers more space with 4 necklace clips, 2 ring rolls, and an additional see-through section.
What it’s not good for:
- Thick bracelets/stacking bangles
- Chunky necklaces
5. Travel Towel or Washcloth
A wash or face cloth is one simple way to keep your jewelry safe and secure. Washcloths are soft and gentle on jewelry, and the material is thick enough to protect the pieces from bumps and scratches.
When packing jewelry, wrap each piece in each fold of your washcloth and secure it with a rubber band. Then, place the wrapped jewelry in a safe, cushioned container or compartment in your luggage.
As towels are typically thicker than jewelry rolls, they will typically take up more space in your luggage. So keep that in mind when you are packing!
You can also opt for thinner washcloths like these. I have them on hand anyway because they’re so soft that I use them for my baby!
What it’s not good for:
- Being on the go and needing to access your jewelry
6. Assorted Bags
Ziplock or vacuum seal bags are a great way of storing your jewelry while traveling. Not only do they keep each piece of jewelry organized, but they also protect against dirt and moisture.
Ziplock bags come in a range of sizes, making them ideal for storing everything from necklaces and bracelets to earrings and watches. They are also lightweight and easy to fit into any suitcase or bag.
Although they are not exactly an eco-friendly option, they can be reused multiple times to pack jewelry.
You can also use the bag that your jewelry came in (if it came in one). I like to keep a few of those just for this scenario.
What they’re not good for:
- Plastic bags aren’t good for the environment so reuse them to be more eco-friendly!
7. Bubble Wrap
Bubble wrap is a classic packing tool and is an option for packing jewelry for travel. It is lightweight, affordable, and provides a cushioning layer of protection against bumps and scratches.
Bubble wrap can be used to individually wrap each item of jewelry in a small bundle. I found it easier to roll multiple items in one bundle, though, since some pieces of bubble wrap are long. You can then place these in a secure box or pouch.
Bubble wrap is a great option for larger pieces that do not fit in a typical jewelry box or roll. The only downside to bubble wrap for me is that it’s just too tempting to pop 😉
What it’s not good for:
- Being on the go and needing to access your jewelry
- Smaller jewelry items like earring studs
8. Tackle Box
I don’t fish. And I probably never will. But if you do, then a tackle box is a fun way to pack jewelry and accessories for travel and is great for those who love to fish and already have this gear. Tackle boxes typically have a secure seal, are see-through, and have multiple compartments. This makes them great for storing rings, necklaces, and earrings. Tackle boxes are not only great for traveling with your jewelry, but also for at-home storage.
Here’s the tackle box that we use at home for storing pens, pencils, and other knick-knacks.
While I find it a bit bulky for travel, I could see this coming in handy for the gal who travels with a lot of bulky necklaces. It’s also a great option for jewelry lovers going on an extended trip or for someone moving to a new destination.
What it’s not good for:
- Packing light
- Thin necklaces that tangle easily (unless they’re in their own little baggie)
- Bangles (unless your tackle box is big enough)
- Smaller earrings like studs (unless they’re in their own little baggie)
9. Buttons, Cork, and Foam for Earrings
Buttons, foam, and corks are quick and easy solutions for storing hook earrings. Once you secure the earrings in the material, place the item in a soft bag or section of your luggage. Foam is great for storing earrings for long periods of time, as it provides a cushion that prevents the earrings from being bent or damaged. Foam can also be used with all types of earrings (like those with backs on them!).
What they’re not good for:
- Anything except for earrings
10. Cardboard
Cardboard is one of my favorite ways to pack jewelry for travel because you most likely have some around the house (Amazon packages, am I right?). I like that you can customize cardboard to store necklaces and even rings, too!
What it’s not good for:
- Bangles
- Chunky necklaces
11. Carabiner
Do you like to climb mountains? Have you ever thought of using that climbing equipment to store jewelry? Shockingly, carabiners make a great way to pack jewelry for travel.
Not only do they provide a secure way to keep rings in one place, but they can also be clipped onto a bag or other item to make it easier to secure.
Carabiners also come in a variety of sizes, colors, and styles, so they can be a fun way to store jewelry while on the go. Additionally, they are lightweight and inexpensive, making them a solid option.
What it’s not good for:
- Most earrings (only those with closed loops could attach to a carabiner like in the photo above)
12. Plastic Wrap
Another way to protect your jewelry while traveling is to wrap it in plastic wrap. This is a simple way to protect your jewelry from dust, dirt, and moisture while in transit. Additionally, wrapping jewelry in plastic wrap prevents the pieces from being scratched or tangled.
Keep in mind that it is important to use plastic wrap that is thick enough to provide the necessary protection for your jewelry.
Although this is not the most eco-friendly option, it is a quick and easy solution you probably already have at home.
What it’s not good for:
- The environment
- Being on the go and needing to access your jewelry
13. Socks
I know, this one sounds really weird. But if you’re traveling with jewelry to a destination where you plan on unpacking fully, then hear me out!
You’re going to pack them anyway, so might as well make them useful! When you ball up your ankle socks, you can put chunky necklaces, big earrings that won’t get lost, bangles, thick bracelets, etc. inside.
Once you get to your lodging, carefully unpack the jewelry from each balled-up pair of socks. That way, they’re only in your socks for the journey.
Here’s the catch… you probably want to wash any dirty socks before packing for the return trip. So if there’s not a washing machine on-site, this might not be the method for you!
What they’re not good for:
- Delicate earrings (they might fall out if they’re not tucked in properly)
- Dainty jewelry (they might fall out if they’re not tucked in properly)
- Lodging without a washing machine
How to Travel with Jewelry: FAQ
Should I pack jewelry in my check-in luggage?
No, it is not recommended to pack jewelry in your check-in luggage. Jewelry is considered a valuable item, and it is best to keep jewelry with you in your carry-on luggage or on your person to ensure it is not lost or stolen.
Can I wear metal jewelry through security?
Yes, you can wear small metal jewelry through security. However, large metal jewelry may be required to be removed and placed in a separate bin for screening. It is best to avoid wearing bulky metal jewelry while traveling.
Can I fly with expensive jewelry?
Yes, you can fly with expensive jewelry. However, it is important to remember that the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) suggests that all jewelry be placed in your carry-on bag. Additionally, for pricier items, you should ensure that your jewelry is adequately insured for the duration of your flight and travel.
Can I pack jewelry in my carry-on luggage?
Yes, you can pack jewelry in your carry-on luggage. However, keep in mind that if you are carrying a large quantity of jewelry containing precious metals or stones, such as diamonds, it may be subject to additional screening by airport security!
Should I wear jewelry while traveling?
It depends. Is the jewelry crucial for your outfit? Then yes, you should. I can’t support crimes of fashion! Kidding! Of course, wearing expensive jewelry while traveling can be unwise. Jewelry can be easily lost or stolen and can draw unwanted attention. But use your best judgment and you should be ok!
In conclusion…
I hope with these tips, you’ll be ready to go and make the most of your trip, jewelry and all. Let me know in the comments section below which jewelry travel organizer you prefer!
Safe travels!
Jasmine
3 Responses
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How to Pack Jewelry for Travel by Jasmine Alley: This blog post provides practical tips on how to pack your jewelry for travel, including advice on choosing the right storage containers and how to prevent damage.
Traveling with jewelry can be a hassle, but with the right tips and tricks, it doesn’t have to be. Jasmine Alley provides useful information on how to pack your jewelry for travel, including tips on storing and organizing your jewelry pieces. From using pillboxes to packing your jewelry in a small bag, the site offers practical advice that can help you travel with your favorite pieces safely and efficiently.