If you want to turn a vacation for two into the most memorable trip of your lives, a destination proposal is for you. But while jetsetting off to a romantic destination where you’ll pop the question is sure to set a magical scene, getting that ring to the destination? No so magical. Before you pack a whole lot of extra stress to take along on your trip, try these 5 tips for traveling with an engagement ring to keep your proposal under wraps.
Photo by Studio Phosart
1. Before leaving:
Insurance protection can provide peace of mind when traveling with an engagement ring. Talk to your insurance agent about creating a rider on your homeowners or renters policy to cover the jewelry. If your ring exceeds the dollar value for a rider, opt for a personal property policy instead. Be sure that the policy you select covers the ring if it is accidentally lost or stolen, and find out what proof you will need to submit a claim in that event. You can learn more about engagement ring insurance here!
2. Discreetly undercover:
Seeing a ring box can be a sure giveaway that a proposal is to come. To avoid blowing your cover, try to find other box options that will keep the ring safe and not be a dead ringer if your significant other happens to sneak a peek. Whatever kind of box you choose, hide it in your bag by rolling it with a pair of socks, tucking it into the toe of a shoe or mixing it in with your toiletries.
3. Proper packing:
Given the financial investment that goes into buying an engagement ring, you may be inclined to want to keep it close to your body when en route to your destination. However, since TSA typically requires you to empty your pockets when walking through security, your future-fiance might catch a glimpse if added to the items on the conveyor belt. Instead, pack the ring in a nondescript box and place it in your carry-on bag. Decrease your chances for being called for a closer check by making sure other items packed are not mistaken for prohibited items, such as liquids, pocket knives, scissors or aerosols.
4. Declaring the ring:
If you’re traveling out of the country, you do not need to declare your ring if you purchased it in the U.S. To avoid your personal item being questioned, the U.S. Customs and Borders Protection says a dated copy of a jewelry appraisal, jewelry insurance policy or receipt can be used to prove ownership of the jewelry. A photo taken of you with the jewelry in your possession prior to your trip may also be accepted.
5. Plan B:
Despite your best efforts, your bag may get flagged for further inspection. It’s best to have one or more backup plans in mind just in case security wants to take a closer look.
- Wrap a note around the ring box to give security a heads up on what’s inside.
- Give your partner a task to do, such as fill your water bottles or grab some snacks, while your bag goes through inspection.
- When all else fails, there’s nothing like a great story to come from a mid-security checkpoint popping of the question.