The Ultimate Guide: How to Protect Your Watch While Travelling

When you’re travelling, your watch is not just a timekeeping accessory; it’s also a valuable and sentimental possession. To ensure that your beloved timepiece remains safe and protected throughout your journey, it’s important to take proper precautions.

Reportedly, 75% of respondents were concerned about their watches being damaged during travel.

Therefore, we will explore valuable tips, techniques, and strategies for safeguarding your watch while travelling.

How to Protect Your Watch While Travelling

1. Choosing the Right Travel Watch Case

Dedicated travel watch cases – be it men’s or ladies watches, is essential for protecting your timepiece during transit. Consider the following factors when selecting a travel case:

• Impact resistance: Look for a case made of durable materials such as hard-shell plastic or reinforced leather to protect against bumps and drops.
• Cushioning: Opt for a case with a soft interior lining or watch rolls to prevent scratches and provide a cushioned environment for your watch.
• Size and compartments: Ensure that the case can accommodate your watch securely and has additional compartments for accessories like extra straps or a spring bar tool.

2. Properly Packing Your Watch

Proper packing is crucial to prevent your watch from getting damaged or tangled with other items in your luggage. Follow these steps to pack your watch safely:

• Securely fasten the strap or bracelet: If your watch has a strap, fasten it securely to prevent it from getting loose or tangled. For watches with bracelets, ensure that the clasp is closed properly.
• Utilise protective watch wraps or pouches: Place your watch in a dedicated watch wrap or pouch to provide an extra layer of protection and prevent scratches. Microfiber or velvet-lined wraps are ideal for keeping your watch safe.
• Cushioned compartment: Pack your watch in a padded compartment of your carry-on or luggage to avoid excessive movement and potential impacts.

3. Handling Security Checks and X-Ray Scanners

Passing through security checks can be a concern for many watch owners, especially for mens watches. Here’s how to ensure the safety of your watch:

• Remove your watch before passing through security: To prevent potential damage or interference, remove your watch and place it in your carry-on or a dedicated tray before passing through X-ray scanners or metal detectors.
• Request a hand inspection if necessary: If you’re concerned about your watch going through X-ray scanners, kindly request a manual inspection from a security officer. They will inspect your watch separately to ensure its safety.

4. Avoiding Extreme Temperatures and Humidity

Extreme temperatures and humidity can adversely affect your watch’s mechanisms. Take the following precautions to protect your watch:

• Store your watch in a climate-controlled environment: Avoid leaving your watch in extreme temperatures, whether it’s scorching heat or freezing cold. Extreme temperatures can damage the delicate components of your watch.
• Protect from direct sunlight and water exposure: Direct sunlight can cause fading or damage to the dial and strap of your watch. Additionally, avoid exposing your watch to water unless it has proper water resistance.

5. Travel Insurance for Your Watch

Travel insurance provides financial protection in case of loss, theft, or damage to your watch. Consider the following steps:

• Importance of insuring your watch: Travel insurance coverage can provide peace of mind knowing that you’re protected against unforeseen circumstances.
• Research and select an appropriate policy: Look for travel insurance policies that specifically cover valuable items such as watches. Read the policy terms and conditions carefully to ensure your watch is adequately covered.
• Document your watch’s value and condition: Take clear photographs of your watch, including close-ups of any distinguishing features or serial numbers. Keep purchase receipts and any relevant documents that verify its value. This documentation will be crucial if you need to make a claim.

6. Watch Safety During Outdoor Activities

Engaging in outdoor activities can put your watch at risk. Follow these steps to ensure its safety:

• Remove your watch before water-based activities: Unless your watch is specifically designed for water sports, it’s best to remove it before swimming, snorkelling, or engaging in any water-based activities.
• Protect from impact and accidental damage: For outdoor adventures, consider using a protective watch cover or guard. These accessories provide an extra layer of protection against impacts, scratches, and dirt.

7. Time Zone Adjustments and Complication Handling

When travelling across time zones, it’s important to adjust your watch correctly and handle its complications appropriately:

• Tips for adjusting your watch: Consult the watch’s instruction manual or manufacturer’s website for specific instructions on adjusting the time and date functions. Be patient and follow the correct procedure to avoid any damage.
• Handling complications: If your watch has additional complications such as a second-time zone or date function, refer to the manual for guidance on adjusting these features. Incorrect adjustments can affect the watch’s accuracy and potentially damage the movement.

8. Regular Watch Checks and Maintenance

Performing regular checks and maintenance while travelling will help keep your watch in optimal condition:

• Inspecting for signs of damage or issues: Periodically check your watch for any visible signs of damage, such as scratches, loose components, or water condensation. If you notice any concerns, consult a professional watchmaker for assessment and repair.
• Maintaining proper watch hygiene: Clean your watch regularly using a soft microfiber cloth to remove dirt, oils, and sweat. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that may damage the watch’s surface or seals.
• Schedule professional service after your trip: If your watch has been subjected to harsh conditions or has travelled extensively, consider scheduling a professional service or maintenance check-up to ensure it remains in optimal working condition.

Conclusion

By following the tips and strategies outlined in this guide, you can ensure that your watch remains protected and in pristine condition throughout your travels. Remember to invest in a suitable travel case, pack your watch securely, handle security checks with care, avoid extreme conditions, consider travel insurance, and perform regular maintenance checks. By implementing these practices, you can enjoy peace of mind and continue to cherish your watch’s beauty and functionality for years to come.