Best way to travel with a suit

Traveling with a suit can be a bit of a pickle, can't it? You want to look sharp when you arrive, but the journey itself can leave your suit looking less than pristine. So, what's the best way to keep your suit looking fresh and wrinkle-free on the go?

First things first, consider the fabric. Wool and microfibre are your best mates here, offering a balance between style and practicality. Wool, especially when blended with lycra, provides comfort and flexibility, while microfibre is great for resisting creases. But wait, there's more to it than just fabric choice.

Packing techniques and travel habits also play a big role. Should you fold it neatly in your suitcase or wear it on the plane? Each option has its pros and cons, and knowing them can make all the difference. Let's jump into the details and find the perfect strategy for you.

Choosing the Right Luggage

Struggle to keep that sharp suit looking crisp while you're globe-trotting? Let's jump into picking the perfect luggage.

Garment Bags vs. Suitcases

When it comes to traveling with suits, you're probably torn between garment bags and suitcases. Garment bags are the old-school choice, letting you hang your suit to keep those annoying wrinkles at bay. But, let's face it, they're not the most travel-friendly. Most airlines insist these days that garment bags must be checked in separately, which usually means coughing up extra cash.

Suitcases, on the other hand, can be a game-changer—especially with all those fancy options out there now. Hard-shell cases are your BFF for protecting your snazzy outfit. Plus, they fit into the overhead compartment much easier than a bulky garment bag. And if you're worried about creases, suit-friendly suitcases with special compartments have your back. So, what's it gonna be?

Choosing a Suitcase

Picking a suitcase is like choosing the right partner: gotta be sturdy, reliable, and oh-so-smooth. Go for one with fixed sides and a hard shell. Polycarbonate and aluminum cases are the superheroes of travel durability. You want something roomy enough to avoid squashing your suit, saving you from looking like you've slept in it.

If you're flying, here's a tip: check your airline’s baggage policy to dodge any nasty surprises at check-in. Some airlines have strict rules about carry-on sizes; don’t get caught out. Finally, if you're fretting about space, packing cubes are nifty little companions. They help keep everything neat and organized, like a little wardrobe on-the-go. So, which suitcase is grabbing your attention?

Packing Techniques for Suits

Keeping your suit looking like it just walked off the runway while traveling? It’s not as mythical as it sounds. With the right techniques, your suit can stay sharp and wrinkle-free.

The Fold-and-Roll Method

This method isn’t just smart; it's suitcase sorcery. Lay your suit jacket front-down on a flat surface. Then, fold the left shoulder midway up the back, keeping that sleeve tidy. Do the same on the right. Now, roll it like you're making the perfect Swiss roll, neat and compact. Carefully place the rolled jacket in the suitcase surrounded by softer items. Your trousers deserve similar treatment: fold them lengthwise, then roll from the bottom up. This method reduces creasing, so you arrive looking everything but crumpled!

Using a Dry Cleaning Bag

You know those flimsy plastic bags from the dry cleaners? Turns out they're packing ninjas. Slip your jacket inside one, hanger included, and fold the jacket from hem to collar in a taco shell shape—lapels snuggled inside. The bag's slippery surface cuts down on friction, fighting wrinkles with every mile. Hang the whole thing with your travel companion inside a suitcase or garment bag. Who knew dry cleaner freebies could lead to traveling greatness?

Additional Tips for Packing Your Suit Jacket

• The Classic Way: Lay the jacket face down and fold one shoulder into the midpoint of the back, with the sleeve flat. Repeat with the other shoulder and fold the hem up to just under the collar. Flip it over with the lapels facing up and place it on top of your packed luggage. This method keeps the jacket structured and minimizes creasing, making it suitable for most suit fabrics.
• The Inside-Out Shoulder: Spread the jacket face down and fold one shoulder to the center, tucking it inside the other shoulder. Then fold the jacket in half and place it in your suitcase. Ideal for satin or silk-lined jackets, this technique reduces friction and helps maintain the integrity of delicate linings.

Packing Suit Accessories

Got your suit packed like a pro but scratching your head about accessories? Here's the deal: getting your add-ons sorted is super easy with a few nifty tricks. Say goodbye to scrambled luggage and wrinkled ties!

Shoes, Belts, and Ties

Tired of shoes squishing your stuff? Stuff socks inside your shoes to save space and chuck them into a shoe bag to keep everything clean. Belts can get pesky with those clunky metal buckles. Lie them flat and slide them around the edges of your bag. Keep 'em away from your neatly folded shirt—nobody wants buckle creases on their crisp white shirt! Now for ties: roll them up like a delicious cinnamon roll and stash them in a corner or in a packing cube to keep 'em neat. No one appreciates a tie looking like a wet noodle, right?

Dress Shirts and Underlayers

Nobody loves a wrinkled dress shirt at that all-important meeting. Fold shirts by buttoning them up and choosing a place away from heavier items. You can even slot tissue paper between folds. Got underlayers? Throw them in to act as a buffer between heavier items. They'll absorb extra pressure, like a trusty sidekick taking one for the team! With this lineup, you'll be stepping out of that plane wrinkle-free and ready to rock any event.

Unpacking and Wrinkle-Reduction Tips

Once you arrive, hang the suit immediately to allow any minor wrinkles to naturally fall out. For any stubborn creases, use a portable steamer or hang the suit in a steamy bathroom to help release wrinkles. Avoid hotel irons directly on delicate suit fabric as this can damage the material; instead, use a garment steamer if available.

The Dos and Don’ts of Packing a Suit

Do:

• Pack items carefully and thoughtfully to protect your suit.
• Unpack your suit as soon as you arrive to allow any remaining wrinkles to fall out.
• Keep valuable items in your carry-on for peace of mind.

Don’t:

• Never pack a damp suit—ensure everything is dry before packing.
• Avoid packing heavy items on top of your suit; it deserves better!

Quick Wrinkle Fixes

Despite your best efforts, a wrinkle might still find its way to your suit. Here are some quick fixes:

• Steaming: If you have access to a steamer, use it right away.
• Hanging: Hang your suit in the bathroom while taking a hot shower; the steam works wonders.
• Dry Cleaner: For serious creases, don’t hesitate to visit a local dry cleaner for professional help.

Air Travel Tips for Suits

For short flights, you might consider wearing your suit, which can help you save packing space. Ask the flight attendant to hang it in an onboard closet or place the jacket on your lap to avoid wrinkles. If you’re flying with multiple suits, place them in separate garment bags and consider direct flights to reduce handling.

Conclusion

Traveling with a suit doesn't have to be daunting. With the right fabric choice and smart packing techniques, you can ensure your suit arrives looking impeccable. Remember to select luggage that accommodates your needs and always check airline policies to avoid any hiccups.

By implementing strategies like the Fold-and-Roll Method and using dry cleaning bags, you can minimize creases and maintain a polished appearance. Once you arrive, unpack promptly and use steam or a travel iron for any final touch-ups. With these tips, you're set to make a great impression wherever your journey takes you.

At Michael Tailor, we understand the importance of keeping your suits pristine during travel. Our expert tailors can recommend the best travel-friendly fabrics and provide personalized packing tips for your bespoke suits. Visit us for garments that not only look exceptional but also maintain their elegance throughout your journeys.