How Do You Pack a Suit?

How do you pack a suit without wrinkling it?

The key is to minimize and control folds. The single best method is a garment bag, which lets the suit hang nearly flat with just one gentle fold, so it arrives crisp. If you are using a regular suitcase, the goals are to fold the jacket as few times as possible, cushion it against creasing, and keep it near the top of the bag away from heavy items. Laying tissue paper or a dry-cleaning plastic bag between folds reduces friction and sharp creases. Whenever possible, carry the suit on rather than checking it, and hang it up the moment you reach your destination so any folds relax.

How do you fold a suit jacket for packing?

There is a classic technique that protects the shoulders, the part of a jacket most easily ruined. First, turn the jacket half inside out: slip one hand inside a shoulder, then fold that shoulder into the other so the two shoulders nest together, with the lining now facing out. This cushions the structured shoulders and collar inside the fold. Then fold the jacket in half or thirds, keeping it smooth, and place it flat. Folding it inside out this way shields the outer fabric and keeps the shoulders from getting crushed. Done carefully, this leaves only soft fold lines that hang out easily rather than deep, set-in creases.

What is the best way to pack a suit in a carry-on?

Combine smart folding with placement. Fold the jacket using the inside-out shoulder method above, and fold the trousers in half or lay them flat along the length of the bag. Pack heavier and bulkier items like shoes and rolled casual clothes on the bottom, then place the folded suit on top so nothing presses into it, cushioning the folds with a plastic garment sleeve or tissue paper. Alternatively, a tri-fold garment sleeve that fits inside a carry-on keeps a suit protected while letting you use the same bag for everything else. Carrying it on means the suit stays with you and is not at the mercy of checked-baggage handling.

How do you get wrinkles out of a suit after traveling?

Most travel wrinkles come out easily. As soon as you arrive, take the suit out and hang it on a good hanger, ideally a wide wooden one, so gravity begins pulling the creases out; many soft folds relax within an hour or two. To speed it up, hang the suit in the bathroom while you run a hot shower, and the steam will help release wrinkles without direct heat. A handheld travel steamer is the most effective tool and safer for suit fabric than an iron, which can scorch or leave shine. A light mist of wrinkle-release spray also helps. Avoid ironing a suit directly unless you use a pressing cloth.