Traveling with Your Watch 101

If your job requires you to travel frequently or if you’re taking a much-needed vacation, there’s no better time to have a sturdy and solid watch on your wrist. As you jet to catch a connecting flight, drive to your next meeting, or hop on a train for a day-trip, you can simply pull up your shirtsleeve and glance down for the time. It’s even more seamless and convenient than digging in your briefcase or backpack for your smartphone.

There are numerous watches that fit into the travel category. If you’re jetting around the globe through different time zones, you can get a watch with a GMT or worldtimer function. If you’re heading to a beach location or plan on a scuba diving excursion, then take a dive watch. More rugged getaways, like hiking and skiing, gear themselves towards a classic, outdoor watch.

Wherever your travels take you, bringing the right watch is just as essential as packing the right pair of shoes. However, unlike that perfect pair of footwear, a watch is a high value luxury item that you carry right out in the open on your wrist. So, before you bring one of your trusty watches on your next trip, be sure to travel with your watch the smart way.

 

Before You Reach Your Destination

Before your trip, there are a few things you can do to help protect your watch. This will give you piece of mind throughout your travels. First, consider getting your watch serviced. Especially if you don’t do so regularly. You wouldn’t want your watch to malfunction on your trip. You should also double-check your insurance policy and make sure everything is up to date. Re-read through the details of your policy.  Should something unforeseen happen during your trip you will want to ensure that your watch is protected. This could include an accident or theft.

Finally, when the day of your trip finally arrives, be sure to wear your watch or pack it in its case in your carry-on bag. You should never pack your watch in your checked bag. However, airport security may ask you to remove the watch for screening. For that reason, it’s always a smart idea to have your case in your carry-on bag, even if you choose to wear your watch. Consider putting the watch in the case prior to putting it through security.

After You Arrive

After you arrive at your destination, remember to protect your watch as soon as you hit the ground. Airports are busy, bustling, and crowded and bustling places. Always be aware of your surroundings; someone could slip your watch off your wrist while you’re distracted. Once you get to your hotel or rental, locate the lock box so that you have a safe place to store your watch if you decide not to wear it one day or even while you sleep at night.

As you enjoy the rest of your trip, continue to be aware of your watch. Be careful to keep your watch inconspicuous and not to draw too much attention to it, particularly if you’re in high-traffic places like a bustling business conference or a popular sightseeing spot. As a tourist, you’re automatically a target for theft and certainly don’t want to ruin your business trip or vacation by losing a valuable timepiece.

On the Trip Back Home

If you’re flying domestically, simply take some of the basic precautions you took as you were flying to your destination. For one, have your watch on your wrist or securely in your carry-on bag.  Also, be aware of your surroundings as you de-board the plane and make your way to your car. However, there is a possibility, if you are traveling internationally, that you may be stopped at customs.

For this reason, it’s a smart idea to travel with copies of the paperwork for your watch. This could be a copy of your receipt of purchase or a copy of your warranty card. You can place them in your watch case for safekeeping, or, keep photos of the paperwork in your smartphone. To go the extra mile, you can even register your watch with customs before leaving the country. Just visit the customs desk before your departing flight to receive a certificate proving you had the watch before you left the country.