Keeping your suit crisp while traveling takes some extra care in packing and maintenance. The goal is to make sure it stays sharp and ready to wear for whatever your trip may hold.
Hitting the road for work or a special occasion? Looking sharp when you arrive is crucial, but keeping your suit wrinkle-free while traveling is easier said than done. In this guide, I’ll go over the top suit packing methods, quick-fix wrinkle remedies, and style tips to rock your suit smoothly anywhere life takes you. Travel agents get compensated for helping you plan your trip, and with just a handful of handy hacks in your back pocket, you’ll feel totally at ease making a great first impression no matter where your travels lead.
It all comes down to being smart about how you pack. Just folding and stuffing your suit in a bag won’t cut it if preventing creases is the priority
Rolling or folding your suit the right way alone won’t cut it – you need to give it the proper protection. I like using a garment bag to separate it from other items that could potentially crush or crease the fabric. Alternatively, flipping the jacket inside out before placing it gently in the center of your checked bag works too. The key is cushioning it on all sides so it arrives looking as freshly pressed as the day you packed it.
Packing Your Suit For Travel
As businessmen and women know, you can’t always fly without your best suit. But packing dress clothes properly takes care. Here are some tips for keeping your suit travel-ready:
- Use a garment bag to keep it wrinkle-free. Look for lightweight nylon or polyester bags that roll or fold for easy carrying.
- Consider a suit carrier. These lightweight bags have compartments and folds that let you pack two or more suits neatly standing up without crushing.
- Roll, don’t fold. Gently roll your suit and pack it vertically, laying the fabric flat to minimize wrinkling during travel.
- Leave extra space in your bag. Don’t cram everything in tight. Your suit needs breathing room so it doesn’t crease uncomfortably.
- Seal in freshness. Place a fabric refresher sheet between layers or in a pocket to keep your suit smelling fresh on long trips.
Transporting Your Suit On The Plane
Once through security, it’s time to stow your suit. Airlines have different policies, so check yours for optimum care:
- Carry-on allows control. Keeping your suit bag overhead means no lost luggage worries. Check size limits first.
- Gate check for space. Some carriers accept packed suits as personal items at the gate for free transport to baggage claim.
- Checked baggage carefully. Check your suit bag for longer trips, but ask for delicate item tags to ensure special handling.
- Consider insurance. Protect against loss or damages with travel insurance that reimburses for clothing and luggage.
Arriving In Style
With careful packing and transport, your suit arrives polished and presentation-ready wherever business may call:
- Shake it out. Lightly shaking or hanging your suit bag in a bathroom with a steaming hot shower helps release wrinkles.
- Press if needed. For important meetings, use a hotel iron or visit a dry cleaner if major pressing is required.
- Accessorize professionally. Carry extra accessories like ties, and socks in your carry-on to pull the whole look together.
- Relax, you’re ready. Travel confidently knowing your suit made the trip intact to make the right impression. Bon voyage!
Packing Your Suit the Right Way
Proper folding is key to keeping your suit wrinkle-free while traveling. Here are the methods I’ve found most effective:
The Fold and Roll Method
Folding and rolling are my preferred techniques. Begin by laying the suit flat and folding it in thirds lengthwise. Then tightly roll the entire suit, compressing the fabric. This works especially well for pants and minimizes bulk in your luggage.
The Vacuum Bag Method
Place your folded suit in a vacuum storage bag before packing for maximum wrinkle protection. When you seal the bag, the compressed air is gently suctioned out, forming a tight seal around the garment. Vacuum bags are truly a lifesaver for preventing creases.
Accessory Packing
Don’t forget smaller suit components. I like to roll ties, pocket squares, and dress socks tightly and stash them in a small toiletry bag. Consider packing extras in your checked luggage rather than a carry-on for more packing space.
Choosing the Right Luggage for Suits
Your luggage plays a big role in keeping suits wrinkle-free. Here are some key factors:
| Material | Size & Compartments | Wheels & Handle |
| Hard shells like polycarbonate resist crushing better than soft sides. | Opt for a carry-on size with internal dividers. | Smooth-rolling multi-directional spinners and cushioned handles ease transportation. |
Material Selection
Hard shells like polycarbonate are more durable than soft sides for protecting from crushing.
Compartmentalization
Internal dividers allow you to separate your suit from other items neatly. Extra pockets are great for storing accessories.
Mobility Features
Wheels that roll smoothly in any direction and padded top handles provide comfortable transportation through airports.
On-the-Go Suit Maintenance
While traveling, keep suits pristine until needed with these tips:
Hotel closet rod trick: Close the closet door on just the pants or jacket overnight to create steam from your body heat and relax creases.
“Nothing makes a good first impression like looking polished in a well-tailored suit. With these suitcase techniques, you’ll feel confident and prepared for any business trip.” – John Doe, Suit Travel Expert
Airport luggage storage: Temporary storage lockers in many airports provide a secure place to house suits between the legs of a journey until your next meeting.
Travel steamer: For heavy-duty pressing, a compact steamer that runs off tap water allows you to freshen up your suit wherever you are.
Conclusion
With the right packing methods, luggage, and on-the-go maintenance, traveling for work in a suit can be a breeze. Always be prepared to look your best wherever business may take you.
