9 tips for packing a men’s suit
Business travel means packing men’s suits, men’s dress shirts, formal shoes and ties along with other basic necessities into very limited space. It can also mean ironing in random hotel rooms unless you are a packing guru or have your own personal valet. Wrinkles are inevitable but here are some tips to minimize them and get the most out of your journey.
- Traveling light typically means a carry-on luggage. Wear your suit jacket and trousers on the plane, ask the stewardess to hang up the jacket to save on wrinkles.
- If you must pack your suit jacket, fold it inside out, tucking one shoulder into the other and then layer your trousers in between the jacket.
- Choose a darker colored but versatile suit – navy, charcoal grey or dark brown – that will travel well and work great for day or evening. Order the Madison Chocolate Flannel for a great winter suit that will travel well.
- Roll socks, t shirts, underwear, belt and jeans and stuff your socks in your shoes to save space. Rolling also helps prevent wrinkles.
- Pack shaving kit, toothbrush and other toiletries in a water tight case to prevent leaks.
- Pack two shirts for each pair of pants. You can dual use your suit for evening by toning it down with a Polo shirt or Henley tee.
- Wear your heavy formal shoes on the plane and pack your lighter casual shoes or sneakers. Place them in a cloth bag to keep any dirt and odor from spoiling your clothes.
- Fold pocket squares beforehand and slip them into ziplock baggies to keep them fresh.
- Ask a bespoke advisor to help you choose suit fabrics that are best for packing. Heavier winter wools, for instance, tend to wrinkle less.