The short answer: when travelling, store a ring in a small hard case or a padded roll inside your hand luggage, and use a hotel safe where one exists, rather than leaving it in a bag you check in or on a bedside table. Keep each piece separate so they do not scratch each other.
Travel is when rings are most likely to be lost or damaged. A little planning helps.
Types of storage
| Type | Good for |
|---|---|
| Small hard case | One ring, well protected. |
| Padded jewellery roll | Several pieces, kept apart. |
| Soft pouch | Light protection inside a case. |
| Hotel safe | Storage in your room. |
Choosing a case
A good travel case for a ring is small, rigid and closes firmly, with a slot or cushion that holds the ring upright so the stone does not rub against anything. A zip is more secure than a press stud, and a bright colour is easier to spot in a dark bag. If you carry several pieces, a roll with separate pockets keeps earrings, a necklace and rings apart so they cannot tangle or scratch.
In transit
- Keep jewellery in hand luggage, not checked bags.
- Keep the case with you, not in a seat pocket.
- Avoid leaving it in a coat you hand to someone else.
Airline and airport rules vary, so check the rules for your journey before you travel.
At the hotel
Use the safe if one is provided. Take a photo of your ring and your case before you go, for your records.
Keep pieces apart
Diamonds can scratch other stones and metals. Use separate compartments.
At security
At airport security you may be asked to remove jewellery or to put your case in a tray. Keep the case in your hand and put it back in your bag as soon as you can. Do not leave it unattended in a tray, and check your pockets before you leave the area.
Carrying a ring for a proposal
If you are carrying an engagement ring to propose abroad, keep the box in your hand luggage and the ring in a pocket you can zip, so you are not caught out at security in front of your partner. Some people carry the ring separately from the box, which is smaller and less obvious. Our guide to proposing abroad: customs, insurance and airport security covers the details.
Crossing borders
If you carry valuable jewellery across borders, keep any receipts, reports and photographs with you. Customs rules differ between countries, so check the rules for each country you visit. If you are buying a ring from us and travelling with it, you pay any import duty and tax that apply, and we explain what to expect for your country.
Keep a list
- Note what you pack.
- Check it again when you unpack.
- Check the setting for damage on return.
Insurance
Speak to your insurer about cover when travelling.
See beach holiday ring care, travelling with fine jewellery and ring care checklist by season.
Nothing is made until you approve the design in writing, and our standard making time is 5 to 6 weeks, which can vary with your location and how busy we are. Pieces start from £600.
Frequently asked questions
Should I wear my ring on the plane? Many people do.
Is a hotel safe safe enough? It is better than leaving it out.
What if I lose it? Contact your insurer and the place you last had it.
How do I carry a ring for a surprise proposal? In a zipped pocket in your hand luggage, separate from the box if you like.
Can you deliver a ring to me while I travel? Tell us your plans, and we explain the options for insured, tracked FedEx delivery.