How to Pack a Suit for Travel: Mastering Wrinkle-Free Folding Techniques for Any Travel Scenario

Traveling with a suit can feel like a balancing act between looking good and being practical. A well-kept suit is crucial for making a strong impression, especially for important events like weddings, interviews, or business meetings.

Knowing how to pack a suit efficiently is key to avoiding checking an extra bag and pesky wrinkles.

As someone who often travels for such occasions, I’ll share valuable techniques for how to pack a suit for travel, I will share a couple different options since everybody's experience differs.

Packing a Suit in a Garment Bag as a Carry-On

Using a garment bag is one of the easiest and most fool proof way to keep your suit looking sharp. It allows you to hang the suit during travel , which helps prevent wrinkles ( the flight attendants will often take care of this for you if you ask nicely.)

There are even some garment bags that allow you to protect your suit and pack other necessities inside.

Here’s how to utilize your garment bag effectively:

1. Select a Quality Garment Bag

   Choose a garment bag that has ample space, padded shoulders, and breathable material. A well-structured bag can protect your suit from fabric creases, dust, and other travel inconveniences.

   
   

   • Step 1: Lay the suit jacket face down, smoothing out any visible wrinkles.

   • Step 2: Fold the jacket in half vertically, placing the right side over the left side, so the collar rests neatly against the fabric.

   • Step 3: If the jacket has a longer tail, tuck it back inside itself. Avoid sharp folds, which can create creases.

   • Step 4: Lay the trousers flat and fold them in half, aligning the legs.

   • Step 5: Fold them in thirds starting from the bottom, and place them in the garment bag. Using a soft packing cube or breathable material can help avoid creases.

   
   

2. Hang it Up

   Depending on the type of bag you choose, after folding, you may need to hang your garment bag upright. This is crucial during travel, again only for upright hanging bags like this one. On flights, check with the airline if they provide hangers for your garment bag to ensure it stays wrinkle-free.

   
   

Packing a Suit in a Carry-On

Packing a suit into a carry-on suitcase requires a bit more effort, but it’s definitely doable. I suggest this for someone who is traveling light, and wants to avoid bringing more than one bag.

This section covers two parts: packing with a suitcase that has a garment folding pocket and with a standard carry-on suitcase.

Packing a Suit in a Suitcase with a Garment Folding Pocket

1. Choosing the Right Suitcase

   
   

   Not all suitcases come with garment folding pockets.

   
   

   If you haven't purchased a carryon yet I suggest grabbing one that has this pocket, it is a major added bonus and if you don't use it often it doesn't matter since it doesn't take up any extra space.

   
   

   • Step 1: Lay the suit jacket face down.

   • Step 2: Position it with the collar at the hinge of the suitcase. The jacket should hang over one side to prevent crumpling.

   • Step 3: Fold the sleeves inward gently (consider placing a shirt or something folded at the crease to avoid a strong fold) before you close the pocket flap.

   • Step 1: Fold the trousers in half.

   • Step 2: Fold them over the top of a shirt (or two) folded to a height that fits the garment pocket. (this will prevent creases)

   • Step 3: Gently place this stack on top of the folded jacket.

   
   

2. Final Touch

   Make sure to close the garment pocket carefully. Smooth out all folds as you do this to keep the suit in prime condition.

   
   

Packing a Suit in a Regular Carry-On

Packing a suit in a standard carry-on can really simplify your travel experience if you can master it.

Here’s a straightforward guide on how to pack a suit in a carry-on suitcase:

1. Preparing Your Carry-On

   I think it is best to use the flat side of your suitcase, or the side without the handles for best results.

   Bulges from luggage handles can cause creasing.

   
   

   • Step 1: Start with the suit coat and lay it flat on the left side of the suitcase. Do not place it on the side with bumps from the luggage handle.

     
     

   • Step 2: Stack the coats (however many suits you are bringing, it may just be one) on top of each other, perpendicular to the suitcase hinge.

     Ensure the collar is at the hinge and the bottom of the suit hangs out on the right side. Position the arms gently outward.

     
     

   • Step 3: Press the suit jacket firmly against the bottom of the suitcase to minimize wrinkles.

     
     

   • Step 4: Lay the trousers flat, ensuring no creases.

     
     

   • Step 5: Carefully fold them tightly around a stack of clothes that fit within the suitcase's depth. Folding them over other clothing will keep the pants from creasing, if that isn't important to you it may still be worth doing since it will prevent jacket wrinkles as well.

     
     

   • Step 6: Place this stack on top of the jackets.

     
     

   • Step 7: Tuck the sleeve edges of the jackets over the stack of clothes gently. Fold the bottom of the jackets inward for added protection against wrinkles.

   
   

Other Tips/Hacks:

Once you get to your destination, hang your suit to let it breathe. Even if you pack your suit flawlessly it will probably need to hang for a little while to regain its proper shape.

Many people prefer to pack their suit by turning their suit jacket inside out and then placing it in their garment bag or carry on. This is supposed to help with both wrinkles and making sure the suite remains blemish free through your journey.

Another thing that I find helpful if you don't have other clothes that need packing, is tho pack the suit around a plastic garbage bag. I don't know the science behind it, but it keeps the wrinkles away.

Give it a try!

Lastly, even the expert folder may not get it right every time. It is not a bad idea to bring a travel size steamer with you. I prefer steamers over irons personally because you can't leave a scorch mark, especially when it comes to something as delicate as a suit. They are relatively inexpensive and will give you some peace of mind if you end up with an unwanted crease.

If you still feel overwhelmed by the idea of packing your suit, you can always just wear it on the plane. Some guys even prefer to just wear the jacket, and fold the pants carefully in their suitcase with the rest of their clothes.

This is a great idea, as long as you can keep it clean for the duration of your flight.

Final Thoughts

Knowing how to pack a suit for travel is essential for a man, but knowing the right techniques, can take away the stress.

Whether you’re using a garment bag, a suitcase with a garment folding pocket, or even a regular carry-on, these steps will make sure you arrive looking sharp and professional.

Happy travels!

The American Gypsy