Travelling for business, meetings or social obligations is nothing out of the ordinary. The dress code for such occasions is usually clear: a suit, a shirt and, if appropriate, a tie. But how do you pack a suit so that, once you pull it out of your luggage, it is not a great crumpled ball? Take a look at the tips of seasoned businessmen.
A dedicated suit bag is the ideal solution
That is right. If you want as little trouble as possible with your suit and shirt, get yourself a dedicated suit carrier. But if you would rather avoid the extra expense, or you know you will be taking a suitcase and an additional bag would only complicate things, you can also transport a suit in the case itself with only minimal creasing.
Pack the suitcase in layers, with the suit on top
The key is to pack your suitcase in layers. The luxury luggage brand Louis Vuitton has even created a packing guide it calls "Art of Packaging". You can take inspiration from their rules. Shoes – wrapped in a shoe bag or plastic pouch – belong at the bottom of the case, along with books, a toiletry bag, underwear and T-shirts. In the middle layer place your soft clothing. Only in the top layer should you then fold the suit and, if you are bringing one, the overcoat.
Luggage-packing experts do not agree on how to fold a jacket. What matters, however, is care and caution. You can turn the jacket face-down and fold it lengthwise in half so that the back stays inside and the shoulders lie on top of each other. Then turn one shoulder lining-out while the other stays on the inside. Finally fold the jacket horizontally in half. Fold the trousers into quarters and place them inside the jacket. The second method resembles the classic way of folding a shirt. Again, place the trousers inside the folded jacket. Which method you choose is entirely up to you.
Clever tips from seasoned travellers
1. An inflated zip-lock bag – Get yourself an extra-large zip-lock bag. Place the folded suit inside and leave a little air in the bag before sealing it. Close the bag. The bubble of air will cushion your suit and protect the fabric from creasing.
2. Tissue paper to layer between items – Tissue paper is a wonderful helper that you can place between the different layers in your case. The fabrics then do not rub against each other, which again reduces the risk of creasing.
3. Unpack and hang immediately – The basic rule is to take the suit out of your luggage as soon as you arrive at the hotel and hang everything on hangers. Gravity will smooth out the small creases on its own.
4. The bathroom and shower-steam trick – Plain steam can often do the work of an iron. It is not a very eco-friendly tip, but it can save you. After arriving at the hotel, hang the suit on a hanger. Turn the shower in the bathroom to the highest temperature, hang the suit inside the bathroom and close the door. The steam will help to release the creases. Then let the suit hang freely until it dries.
5. Quality fabrics have shape memory – Investing in a suit made from modern woollen fabrics also pays off when travelling. Quality wool suits do not crease as much and, once on a hanger, they quickly regain their original shape. The creases simply hang themselves out. When you are on the road this can save you a great deal of worry.
Did the packing not go to plan and is there no time for the steam trick? Do not tackle the situation on your own. Most hotels will lend you an iron, but in a rush you could do even more damage. If the hotel offers a professional pressing service, entrust your suit to them.
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