You’ve finally planned that perfect getaway, and now it’s time to figure out how to travel with jewelry without ending up with a tangled mess.
I get it; in fact, I’ve been there, untangled everything, and found a better way.
It’s easier than you think!
With a little creativity and a few everyday items, you can keep your fav jewlery organized, safe, and ready to wear.
Here’s how to travel with jewelry:
General Jewelry Packing Tips
These quick tips work for any kind of jewelry and help you stay stylish while staying smart.
- Keep a list or take a photo of all the pieces you’re bringing so you can quickly check for anything left behind. This tip has saved my ass many times.
- Always keep your most valuable items in your carry-on or personal bag, never in checked luggage.
- Don’t flash expensive jewelry while traveling, especially in crowded or unfamiliar places. It can attract unwanted attention.
- Choose versatile pieces you can mix and match rather than packing something different for every fit.
- Bring a few spare earring backs and clasps.
- Pack jewelry for travel in small portions throughout your hiding spots, so that you’re not putting all your valuables in one place.
Necklaces
Let’s face it. Tangled necklaces are the ultimate outfit buzzkill. Use these tricks to keep them neat and knot-free.
- Did you know there are organizers made with the sole purpose of keeping necklaces from getting permanently tangled? SO worth the investment: Portable Jewelry Roller.
- Use a drinking straw to thread one end of the necklace through and clasp it on the other side. No tangles, no fuss.
- Use individual velvet pouches that happen to be cute.
- A washcloth and a couple of rubber bands can become an instant DIY roll. Lay the necklaces out, roll the cloth, fold, and secure.
- Ziploc bags are your secret weapon. Zip the clasp into the seal and let the chain hang down inside the bag.
- A toilet paper roll works wonders. Thread each necklace through and clasp it inside the tube, then place it on top of your packed clothes.
Bracelets
Bracelets don’t usually tangle, but they do tend to disappear into the corners of your suitcase. Here’s how to keep them together and make them easy to find.
- A toilet paper roll can double as a bracelet holder. Stack them around the outside and slide them into your luggage.
- Clip them onto a carabiner and toss them into your bag. Quick, compact, and super practical.
- Use a drawstring jewelry pouch or even a small zippered pouch to corral them in one place.
- Wrap them around a soft item, like a sock or rolled-up t-shirt, to cushion and protect them.
- Travel soap dishes make perfect little bracelet boxes. Easy to find and surprisingly sturdy. This is mine.
Read: How to Take Care of Your Skin While Traveling
Earrings
Wondering how to travel with jewelry that is tiny, dainty or dangly? These hacks will keep every pair safe and partnered.
- Stick your earrings into a clean eraser or wine cork to keep the backs together.
- Use a Styrofoam plate to pierce through multiple pairs of studs or dangly styles.
- Thread studs through extra buttons from old shirts. The holes keep them secure and easy to match up.
- Small plastic pill organizers are perfect for separating pairs. Bonus: they stack neatly.
- Cupcake liners make a cute and clever way to store several pairs. Wrap them in something soft to cushion.
Read: How to Take Badass Travel Pics on Your Phone
Rings
Rings are tiny, treasured, and easy to misplace. Use these travel hacks to make sure they stay put.
- Slip them into a clean contact lens case for compact, cushioned storage.
- Keep them safe in a hard glasses case alongside a soft cloth.
- Snap them onto an O-ring clip or a keyring. It keeps them together and easy to access.
- Use the daily compartments of a pill organizer to separate rings by style or day.
- A mint tin with a cotton ball inside makes a charming and functional ring box.
Read: Are Packing Cubes Worth it? The Truth
Fine Jewelry
When you’re packing your more precious pieces, you need extra care. These tips will help you protect the sparkle and sentimental value while you travel.
- Invest in a hard-sided jewelry case with padded compartments for ultimate protection. I like this one.
- Try a hanging jewelry case with zippered pouches. It keeps everything visible and organized.
- Store each item in its own zippered satin pouch to prevent scratches and mix-ups.
- Hide fine items in unexpected places, like a travel toiletry container or an empty lip balm case inside your purse. I use my empty lotion containers from Haus of Gloi, my FAV indie bodycare designer.
- I’ve said it already, but it’s important: Never put fine jewelry in your checked luggage. Store them in your carry-on, where you can keep an eye on them.
How to Hide Jewelry When Traveling
Here are some clever and discreet tips on how to travel with jewelry when you want to keep your items hidden.
- Hide them in a real, working lint roller (with a secret compartment)
- Use a hairbrush with a hollow handle or a scrunchie with a secret compartment.
- Hide larger pieces in an actual book with a twist or a charger.
- DIY: Store jewelry in a foldable sanitary pad wrapper or empty tampon applicator.
- Place delicate items inside the lining of a jacket or inside an old wallet that doesn’t draw attention.
- Use a contact lens case for earrings or small pendants and toss it in with your cosmetics.
Frequently Asked Questions
These are the questions we’ve all had about how to travel with jewelry.
Do airport scanners detect jewelry?
Yes, airport scanners do detect jewelry.
Most small pieces like rings, earrings, and necklaces won’t cause any issues. However, large metal pieces may trigger the scanner and lead to a manual inspection. It’s best to keep things simple and avoid wearing oversized or layered pieces through security to avoid any BS from TSA.
Do I have to take jewelry out of my carry-on?
No, you don’t usually have to take jewelry out of your carry-on bag.
TSA agents typically allow jewelry to remain in your personal bag during screening. That said, it’s a good idea to pack it in a small case or pouch so it’s easy to access if needed and doesn’t get lost in your luggage.
Is it safe to travel with jewelry?
Yes, traveling with jewelry can be safe as long as you’re smart about it.
Use a sturdy case, keep your items with you rather than in checked bags, and never leave them unattended in your room or bag. Consider leaving heirlooms or expensive pieces at home and opting for stylish, lower-cost alternatives while away.
Final Thoughts
Learning how to travel with jewelry is all about smart, simple solutions that fit your lifestyle.
Got a genius jewelry hack you love? Share it in the comments below!
