How to take care of your watch when travelling

According to recent statistics, UK residents make a massive 19.1 million visits abroad every year. If you’re partial to jet-setting, then, you’re not alone.

Although travelling the world is exciting, things do not always go to plan. If you are lucky enough to own an expensive watch collection and are keen to bring one or more of your favourites with you, there are some things to consider so that your timepieces do not become damaged – or, worse, stolen – during your trip.

To learn how to keep your watches safe on your travels, read on.

What type of watch should you bring with you?

Before we delve into taking care of your watch, it is important to consider what types of watches you can bring with you.

Think about your watch’s purpose. Some watches allow you to manage different time zones or are water-resistant. These can be particularly useful when travelling abroad.

It is also worth noting how robust your watch is. For example, some wristwatches do not function well in the heat. If this is the case for yours, it is probably best to leave it at home.

What are some good practices for taking your watch abroad?

There are a few simple steps that you can take to keep your watch safe.

• Keep your valuables with you at all times – rather than packing your watch into the hold, consider wearing it or taking it on board as hand luggage.
• Look for a secure safe – if you are staying at a hotel, try to seek out a secure safe in your room. Never leave your watch out loose in your hotel room or apartment, just in case.
• Get watch insurance – reinforce your peace of mind by trying to find a watch insurance policy. That way, the insurance company may be able to help should the unforeseen happen to your timepiece during your travels.

How to carry your watch

Although it might sound strange, there is a right and wrong way to carry your watch. While putting your watch in a bag or coat pocket might be practical, it is not always the best option. Without adequate protection, you run the risk of scratching or damaging your jewellery.

To avoid any unintentional scratches, invest in a watch case to keep your timepiece looking box-fresh.

What to do before setting off?

Before you set off on your travels, it is a good idea to get your watch properly serviced. This will make sure that it is in tip-top shape and ready for your trip. If you have a quartz watch, it will be given a new battery. If your watch is mechanical, you will need a tune-up.

Now all that is left to do is pack your bags and head off to the airport for your trip!