Why You Should Avoid Wearing Fake Jewelry On A Vacation To A Hot Weather Destination

There's no doubt that when it comes to packing for an upcoming holiday, you're generally more inclined to reach for clothing items and outfits that'll ensure you look your best while on vacation. Whether you're looking to spend your days lounging by the pool, exploring a new city, or dining out under the stars, the truth is that your outfit can ultimately make or break the vacation photos you've been dreaming of posting online for all curious eyes to see.

And when it comes to adding some flair, one of the best ways to elevate and accessorize any basic look is with a little help from your trusty jewelry box. From statement earrings to the perfectly-layered necklace stack, jewelry can instantly transform a simple sundress into a show-stopping number — and add a finishing touch to even the most glammed-up vacation look.

However, before you go ahead and stuff your suitcase to the brim with your favorite budget-friendly accessories, there's a very important thing to consider about wearing fake jewelry in hot weather destinations: They're bound to tarnish and discolor. Because while these uber-affordable pieces might look great in theory — and save you a pretty penny at the same time — they can just as easily turn into a green-stained mess once temperatures start to climb.

So, what's to blame for your skin turning all sorts of green and black while wearing costume jewelry in the heat? Put simply, it all boils down to a mixture of cheap metals and body chemistry. Costume (or "fake") jewelry is typically made from a mixture of metals called an alloy — most of which contain large amounts of highly-reactive metals like copper. From there, when these mixed metals come into contact with your skin's oils and sweat — and even certain products like moisturizers or perfumes — the copper begins to oxidize, leading to the appearance of discoloration on your skin.

Don't worry, though, the stains don't last forever, although they can be hard to remove. That said, a scrub with soap and water should get your skin back to looking normal. Alternatively, a little rubbing alcohol or makeup remover should also do the trick. As for preventing this, there's a simple trick: Apply a layer of clear nail polish to the jewelry to create a barrier between your skin and the metals to stop the reaction from happening again.

Although it can feel a little nerve-racking to bring your valuable jewelry on a trip, there's not much reason to worry. After all, there are several ways to ensure your precious pieces stay safe and secure during your travels. For starters, one of the best ways to pack your jewelry is to use a dedicated travel jewelry organizer. These specially-designed containers usually come with separate compartments for necklaces, earrings, and rings, and help to prevent tangling and damage.

Alternatively, you can also get creative with household items. For example, use a pill organizer for small earrings and rings, or reuse an empty gum container to pack your jewelry for a more unassuming storage solution. For extra protection, you can even take things further and wrap each piece individually in soft cloth or tissue paper before placing them in your case.

Whatever you do, make sure you never pack your jewelry in your checked bag. Not only is there a higher risk of theft if you choose to do this, but checked luggage is also more likely to be lost or mishandled during the trip. Instead, keep your jewelry in your carry-on bag where you watch it closely, and create a photo-log of all of your pieces before jetting off in case your travel insurance provider offers added coverage in the event of theft, accidental loss, or damage.