How to Protect Your Luxury Watch Collection During Travel

Why Travelling with Luxury Watches Requires Extra Care

Luxury watches aren’t just accessories—they’re valuable investments, both financially and sentimentally. When you travel with them, it’s essential to remember that they can be more vulnerable to damage, loss, or theft. Whether you’re going through busy airports, staying in unfamiliar hotels, or navigating public transport, the risks to your timepieces can increase when you’re on the move.

Travelling with luxury watches introduces a range of unique challenges. From the potential for bumps and scratches during transit to the heightened risk of theft in crowded areas, your watches require careful attention. Airport security, in particular, can be a source of stress, as watches are often required to be removed and placed in trays, increasing the chance of misplacement or damage. Additionally, unfamiliar destinations may not offer the same level of security you’re accustomed to at home, leaving your watches more exposed.

Another consideration is the sentimental value these watches hold. For many watch collectors, the emotional attachment to a timepiece can be just as important as its monetary value. Losing or damaging a watch while travelling can cause a great deal of stress, so it’s important to take extra care. By planning ahead and staying vigilant, you can minimise these risks and focus on enjoying your trip, with your luxury watches securely by your side.

When travelling with your luxury watches, deciding when and how to wear them can make a big difference in keeping them safe. Here are some practical tips to ensure your watch stays secure and in perfect condition during your trip:

Discretion is Key

• While it’s tempting to show off your luxury watch, it’s important to be mindful of your surroundings. In crowded places, like airports or tourist attractions, flashy jewellery can attract unwanted attention.
• Consider wearing a more subtle watch in high-traffic areas, and reserve your high-end pieces for special occasions or safer environments.

Avoid High-Risk Activities

• Certain activities pose a higher risk of damaging your watch. Whether you’re hiking, swimming, or engaging in outdoor sports, it’s a good idea to leave your luxury timepieces in a secure place.
• Even if your watch is water-resistant, saltwater, chlorine, or sand can still cause long-term damage, especially to leather straps and metal finishes.

Wear It or Store It Safely

• If you’re not wearing your watch during certain parts of your trip, make sure it’s safely stored in your hotel’s safe or a trusted lockbox. Avoid leaving it out in plain sight in your hotel room.
• Never pack your luxury watch in checked luggage—it’s always safer to keep it on your wrist or in your carry-on.

Travelling with luxury watches requires a few extra security steps to ensure they’re kept safe from theft or damage. Here’s how to minimise risk while you’re on the go:

Use Hotel Safes and Trusted Storage

• Most high-end hotels provide in-room safes, which are a great option for storing your watches when you’re not wearing them. Always double-check that the safe is functioning properly before storing your valuables.
• If you’re staying in accommodations without a safe, ask about secure storage options at the front desk or consider bringing your own portable travel safe for added security.

Stay Alert at Airports and Customs

• Airport security can be tricky for luxury watches. When going through security, it’s best to store your watch in a soft pouch in your carry-on to avoid placing it directly in the tray, where it can get scratched or misplaced.
• Be mindful at customs checkpoints, where you may be required to declare high-value items, including watches. Make sure you have any necessary documentation on hand to avoid complications.

Keep an Eye on Your Surroundings

• Travelling to new destinations can sometimes mean navigating unfamiliar and busy environments. Always stay aware of your surroundings, particularly in crowded places, where thieves might target luxury items like watches.
• Never leave your watch unattended, even for a short period. If you need to remove it, store it safely immediately, rather than leaving it out in the open.

Travelling with luxury watches means not only keeping them secure but also making sure they’re properly insured in case of loss, theft, or damage. Before heading off on your next trip, here’s how to ensure your timepieces are covered with the right insurance for you:

Review Your Insurance Policy Before Travelling

• Not all insurance policies automatically cover your watches when you’re travelling abroad. Before your trip, take the time to review the details of your jewellery or travel insurance policy.
• Check for any exclusions or limitations that could affect your coverage while travelling, such as geographical restrictions or value limits on claims made overseas.

Get a Quote Before Your Trip

• If you’re unsure about your coverage or looking for more comprehensive insurance, consider getting a quote from Q Report before you travel. Having the right insurance in place means you can repair a damaged watch or replace a lost or stolen watch if the unexpected happens.

Conclusion

Travelling with your luxury watch collection doesn’t have to be stressful, as long as you take the right precautions. By being mindful of when and where you wear them, and using proper security measures, you can significantly reduce the risks of damage or theft. If you’re unsure or concerned about a particular piece, it’s best to leave it safely at home.

And there’s always specialised watch insurance for the unexpected. Learn more about the benefits of watch insurance with Q Report. Have questions? Reach out today! The Q Report team is always happy to chat.

This article is advisory in nature and is offered as a resource to be used together with your professional insurance advice. It is an overview only and is not intended as a substitute for consultation with your insurance advisor or other professional advice.