Never underestimate the power of a brilliant pair of earrings to elevate an outfit. After all, Iris Apfel didn’t declare jewellery to be “the most transformative thing you can wear” for nothing. We can only imagine the expansive space which her sprawling collection of oversized beaded necklaces, chains and bangles covers.
We can also only imagine the extensive act of curation that occurs when the iconic Ms Apfel travels. How does she decide what to bring, and how on earth does she store it?
If we’re lucky enough to go on holiday throughout the year – be it an alpine getaway or beachside bonanza – if you’re like us, you’ll pare down your luggage aggressively to ensure you’re not required to pay extra for the hold, scrupulously counting each kilogram and weighing items in each hand before packing like Lady Justice.
In our humble opinion, the most important thing to make allowances for when travelling is a bustling bag of essential toiletries. When it comes to managing luggage weight, unless you’re Ms Apfel or a diamond heiress, jewellery doesn’t usually enter the equation. It does, however, pose a separate packing issue.
Whether you’re a collector of unique second-hand costume jewellery or simply care for a small collection of precious wearable stones, travelling with our favourite accessories can feel daunting. They’ll usually be flung into any pouch, likely ending up tangled and tarnished by the time we've reached our destination. Yet there’s a better way; travel jewellery cases are the answer.
From tiered options which can organise your jewellery by size and shape, to soft-shelled options which are both unique and wonderfully packable – we’ve rounded up a selection of the best travel jewellery cases on the market.
Shop the top picks below
Stackers Jewellery Roll, Green
Our pick of the bunch combines the protective power of a hard-shelled jewellery case and the portable practicality of a roll-up. While the thinner stature of this piece forces you to be a bit more selective about the jewellery that you bring abroad, it also provides immaculate organisation for all the bits and pieces that you do decide to pack.
Buy now £30.00, John Lewis
Stackers Medium Travel Jewellery Box, Dusky Blue
A sizeable option which might take up slightly more space in your luggage, this protective jewellery case from Stackers is available in three pastel hues and is suited to those who prioritise rings and earrings over necklaces. This case also features a removable divider to increase space if needed.
Buy now £28.00, John Lewis
Stackers Petite Travel Jewellery Box, Dusky Blue
Sometimes, all you need is a miniature hard-shelled case to store one or two pairs of earrings. Luckily, Stackers also offers a petite option with a hard-wearing zip that’ll keep your precious pieces safe and sound no matter what.
Buy now £18.00, Stackers
Starry Night Velvet Mini Round Jewellery Case in Navy
Celestial lovers rejoice, for this circular jewellery case will imbue any space at home or abroad with an astrological aesthetic. Equipped with a ring roll, two small jewellery sections and an inner pouch for extra bits – this is an immediate add-to-basket option for accessory fiends.
Buy now £20.00, Lisa Angel
Velvet Embroidered Jewellery Roll with Satin Lining
We were surprised to discover that this velvet and satin jewellery roll wasn’t some kind of vintage treasure found in the Palace of Versailles. The beautiful mint green hue, golden velvet embroidery, beaded tassels and satin lining give this practical travel accessory a decidedly regal elegance.
Buy now £30.00, Etsy
Becko Jewellery Organizer Roll
A value-for-money option which has ample space for multiple necklaces, rings and additional slot-in panels for earrings, this jewellery roll is also equipped with extra loops below the snap-on necklace holders to prevent entanglement.
Buy now £18.99, Amazon
Dotty Velvet Jewellery Roll
These cotton jewellery rolls from Graham & Green make a fantastic gift, whether you’re purchasing for a loved one, or for yourself. Measuring 19.5x25cm when unrolled, this portable case offers a deceptively expansive space for all of your favourite pieces.
Buy now £22.00, Graham & Green
Personalised Dusky Pink Velvet Jewellery Roll
A customisable option which ensures your jewellery collection will never be confused with someone else’s, this sleek and luxurious quilted roll has a ring and stud older, three necklace slots, an elasticated pocket and a zippered pocket to keep even the smallest of accessories secure.
Buy now £28.00, NOTHS
Verdict
Stackers’ packable Jewellery Roll option takes the biscuit when it comes to travel jewellery cases for hard-wearing practicality. A close second is the beautiful, regal Velvet Embroidered Jewellery Roll with Satin Lining option available through Etsy.