You know to keep your credit cards, debit cards, and cash safe and secure when you travel, but what about your timepieces?
Seasoned travelers will tell you that it's important to pack your watches carefully so that they aren't damaged during your trip. At the same time, you want to ensure they are safe from theft or loss. You don't want to visit distant locations without your precious watches, so making sure they are well taken care of on the journey is imperative.
If you're reading this article, chances are you're looking for the best ways to protect your valuable timepieces. This guide will tell you everything you need to know when it comes to travel safety tips that apply to your favorite watches.
Choose a Travel Watch
No matter where you're going, there is sure to be the perfect watch to complement your trip and enhance your travel experience. Consider your travel plans as you decide which additional watches to pack.
For hiking, camping and backpacking trips, an outdoor watch will be essential. In that case, a rugged watch with a durable strap and a scratch-proof face is your best option. Weather is also a consideration. If you're going to be spending time out in the elements, you need to carefully consider the weather conditions. A waterproof watch that can withstand cold weather and hot temperatures will be ideal.
On the other hand, if you are going to a work conference or a wedding, you may want to consider packing a dress watch. That might be a watch made of precious metal with a sophisticated design that pairs well with a suit or tuxedo.
International trips necessitate a watch that can travel across time zones. You want a watch that features a second-time zone display, and may also want a timepiece that features an alarm so that you don't have to worry about missing anything, due to a time change.
If you're someone who enjoys switching up your watch daily, travel may make it difficult to do so. After all, there's only so much room in your suitcase to pack your timepieces. In this case, you are much better off choosing a watch on which you can swap out the band or strap, allowing you to switch up your look without the risk of taking all of your most valuable items along for the trip.
Pack Your Watches Securely
Travel safety tips go beyond securing your credit cards and staying safe on public transport by being alert and aware of your surroundings. It also means keeping your valuables secure while you move about your destination, wherever that happens to be.
A well-packed watch is going to be a lot safer than one that you toss into your carry-on or suitcase and hope for the best. Whether your watch is expensive or carries sentimental value, you need to keep it safe on your journey. For that reason, having the right way to transport the item is imperative. Have a look below at some of your packing options.
Watch Roll
A watch roll is like a tiny suitcase for your watch. Most models feature a top that slides off. Once opened, there is a roll that your watch is secured around. Replace the top and your timepiece is nestled inside the case, which protects it from damage during your travels. The compact design makes it easy to put into your suitcase and gives you peace of mind, whether you're traveling by car, train or plane.
Watch Case
Another option is the traditional watch case. Typically made from semi-rigid materials, the case opens and features space inside to keep one watch. The structure of the case protects it from bumps and other damage during travel and can be customized to fit the precise watch you want to use it for. Some watch cases hold several watches, making this a viable option if you plan to carry along more than one extra timepiece.
Watch Briefcase
If you can't fathom leaving home without an entire wardrobe of watches, the briefcase option is your best bet. This carrying case boasts room for up to 10 or 12 timepieces, each of which can be tucked into its own section, so they aren't bumping up against each other during your travels. This is also an ideal option for someone who sells and displays watches, as you can carry your inventory in one handy place.
Keep Your Watches Close
If you've done any traveling, you know that one of the top travel safety tips is to keep your valuables close. While it's certainly important to protect your watches from damage as you see the world, it's just as vital to protect them from loss or theft. Proper packing means carrying them with rather than checking them with your luggage. That way you always know where each watch is and won't have to worry about getting to your destination without it.
Air travel poses another risk to be cautious of. Extreme temperatures and air pressure changes can damage some types of watches, which can interfere with performance. If you're concerned about this, the best idea is to wear the watch to keep it safe.
Travel on land can be bumpy, so if that's your mode of transportation, be sure your watches are well-secured so they aren't getting jostled around during the trip.
Use the Hotel Safe
Once at your destination, have a plan to secure your timepieces when you aren't wearing them. You might consider storing them in a hotel safe with your debit card when you're not using the watch. Some boutique hotels feature a safe in every room and you can set the code yourself so that you can lock up your watches when you're not in the room.
In other hotels, the hotel manager monitors the safe, so you will have to ask that person to keep your watches in the designated location. Be sure you have the contact details for the person in charge of the safe, so you know who to get in touch with when you need to collect your items.
If you have a preference for one or the other, it's important to get a clear picture of your accommodation details before you leave. That way, when you arrive at your lodging, whether it's a boutique hotel or otherwise, you know who the hotel manager is and are aware of their contact details so you can get in touch with them about storing your valuables.
Use Travel Insurance
If your watch is expensive and holds a lot of value, it's smart to have it covered with your travel insurance. Options that cover valuable jewelry may also cover your watches, but it's important to be sure of exactly what is covered and for how much. This way, if your timepieces are lost, stolen or damaged during your journey, you can cover the price for a replacement.
Travel insurance requires preparation and it's best to have it in place before you leave. That way it's there if you need it and you won't have to waste time wondering if your coverage is valid. Some dedicated travel insurance companies are the ideal option for finding the precise coverage you need for your favorite timepieces.
Pay Attention to Your Surroundings
A female traveler can emphasize the importance of being aware of your surroundings when you travel, but this is one of those travel safety tips that applies to anyone. It's particularly important to pay attention on international trips where customs and habits differ from yours. That way, you are safe, but so are your watches, while you also enjoy your destination country and everything it has to offer.
If the area where you are traveling sees a lot of crime, it's a good idea to leave the luxury watch at home and choose something less valuable that won't make you a target of theft. Be street smart on crowded streets, which are often where pickpockets operate. Crowded streets also pose the risk of damage to your watch as you are jostled and bumped by your fellow travelers or locals. Keep that in mind by wearing a watch that can stand up to that kind of activity.
Your Takeaway
Whether you're just traveling across the state or you plan to visit a foreign country for a unique cultural experience, your travel experience will be much more enjoyable if you know that your watches are safe and secure. For that reason, be sure you work with a dedicated travel insurance company to get the protection you need for your timepieces, in case they are damaged, lost or stolen.
By taking care to keep your watches safe with advance preparation, as well as a plan for during the journey, you'll enjoy your trip and come home with all of your watches intact. Bon voyage!
These travel tips were brought to you by Watches and Watches, a premier Los Angeles jeweler that sells and buys quality timepieces and fine jewelry. Browse our current selection or come to us for a fair price for your watch.
