Travelling with a Suit: Wrinkle-Free Packing Tips

Packing a suit for travel can be a real hassle. Whether you’re heading to a wedding abroad, an important business meeting or a formal event, keeping your suit looking sharp and crease-free can be a bit of a minefield. Travelling with a suit isn’t something you do every week, so it's no wonder many men don’t know where to begin. Packing smart can make all the difference, saving you time and inevitable frustration. In this guide, we arm you with the tips and tricks you need to ensure you arrive looking sharp. 

Essential Packing Strategies for Wrinkle-Free Suits

Choose the Right Suit and Fabric

When it comes to choosing a suit to travel with, it’s imperative to select the right type of suit. Look for fabrics that are sturdy in nature and resist wrinkles. Wool mix blends, polyester or lycra blends are more suited to travel and tend to come out looking better after hours in luggage than, say, linen or cotton blends. 

Top Suits For Travelling

Use Proper Suit Packing Techniques

Rolling vs. Folding

It's an age-old debate that extends beyond packing your suit. Many travellers swear by rolling to keep creases at bay. Rolling suits firmly and neatly can compress the fabric, limiting the folds and wrinkles. If you’re opting for a wool mix suit, that's heavier than folding, might be better. When it comes to folding, you should fold the suit carefully along the natural seams. When you fold, try to make minimal creases by using the “careful fold” method—fold the pants in half, then fold the jacket along the seams. Smooth out any wrinkles as you go.

Suit Garment Folders and Packing Cubes

Garment folders and packing cubes have revolutionised how we pack for our travels in recent years. These handy tools help keep your clothing organised and reduce wrinkles. To pack with a folder or cube:

1. Lay your suit flat in the folder or cube.

2. Fold or roll carefully to avoid deep creases.

3. Place the folded suit on top of other clothes or in your luggage.

Packing Accessories and Tools for Wrinkle Prevention

Suit Bags and Garment Carriers

A suit bag helps to keep clothing flat and protected. All Marc Darcy suits come with a complimentary suit bag. Top tip: Make sure you keep your suit on the suit hanger; these are designed to be more sturdy and provide more protection to your suit. If you’re travelling further afield, it's advisable to invest in a hard-shell garment bag. Whatever you choose, ensure it's airline-approved if you're carrying it onboard. Many airlines allow stylish, lightweight suit carriers that slip into overhead compartments easily.

Additional Wrinkle-Reducing Accessories

As well as packing tools and tricks, there are a few little extras that can help to keep your suit looking and smelling fresh during travel. 

• Tissue paper between layers to prevent fabric from rubbing.

• Dryer sheets to add a fresh scent and reduce static.

• Travel-sized wrinkle-release sprays for quick touch-ups.

Best Practices for Ironing and Steaming on the Go

Even after taking all the necessary precautions, it’s likely you will need to touch up your suit a little with a portable steamer. These devices heat quickly and are gentle on fabrics. Use a quick pass over your suit to smooth out wrinkles after unpacking.

Follow these simple steps:

1. Hang your suit in a steam-friendly area.

2. Fill your portable steamer with water, then turn it on.

3. Gently run the steamer across the fabric, paying special attention to creases.

4. Let the suit air-dry for a few minutes before wearing.

Always check the manufacturer's instructions, and keep your device clean to avoid water spotting or fabric damage.

Conclusion

Packing a suit for travel doesn't have to be a chore. With the right techniques, quality accessories, and a little planning, you can arrive looking sharp and ready to impress. Choose wrinkle-resistant fabrics, pack carefully with folders or cubes, and carry essential tools like portable steamers. Remember, the effort you put into your packing pays off when you step out looking professional without last-minute stress. Plan ahead, invest in good gear, and practise your packing routine—your wardrobe will thank you.

Discover the best menswear with Marc Darcy

Looking for the perfect suit? Visit Marc Darcy and browse our exquisite selection of Tweed Suits, Evening Suits, and Wedding Suits. We have a large range and something for everyone.

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