How to Pack a Suit in a Suitcase

Traveling with a suit doesn’t have to become a daunting task. Whether you’re jetting off for a business meeting or attending a special event that requires business formal vibes, knowing how to pack your suit can ensure it arrives wrinkle-free and ready to impress.

From choosing the right suitcase to expert folding techniques, here’s your ultimate guide on how to pack a suit for your next trip.

Choose the Best Suitcase

If you’re figuring out how to pack a suit jacket, you have to start by selecting a good suitcase. Look for one that offers enough space to accommodate your suit without excessive folding or crumpling. Ideally, your suit should be able to lay flat with as little folding as possible.

Alternatively, you can consider a suitcase with a dedicated garment compartment, or choose a foldable garment bag. A foldable garment bag can keep your travels light and your suit neat.

Packing cubes are another great way of keeping your bag and all your business formal clothes tidy. Make sure you include a bottle of wrinkle-release spray in case you end up in an area without a way to iron out wrinkles.

Suit-Folding Techniques

Once you have a suitcase that will fit all your needs, you want to master your suit-folding technique. This is a must when figuring out how to pack a suit, even if you’re using a garment bag (since you may need to fold the pants or jacket to fit properly).

Start with the jacket. If packing in a traditional suitcase, then lay your suit jacket face down on a flat surface, with the back of the jacket facing down.

Fold one shoulder of the jacket inward, aligning it with the center seam. Fold the other shoulder on top of the first, creating a neat stack. Next, fold the jacket in half lengthwise, tucking the sleeves inside. Place it flat inside the suitcase for minimal wrinkling.

For the pants or skirt of the suit, lay them on a flat surface and fold them in half lengthwise. Fold the length in thirds and then place them flat in the suitcase as well.

Use Careful Packing Strategies

Depending on the suitcase you’ve selected, there are some different packing strategies you can employ to make the most use of your space and keep your suit neat.

If you’re using a garment bag, make sure everything is hanging up tidy without being forced into bent spaces. If you’re using a traditional suitcase, you may have to get more creative with your packing hacks.

If your suitcase allows, consider using packing cubes to keep your suit, pants, or skirt separate from other items in your bag. This can help keep everything organized and also reduce wrinkling from being tossed around inside your bag.

Using packing cubes can also help protect your suit from any potential toiletry leaks or lint collection from other items in your bag. If you’re short on space, consider rolling your clothes instead of folding them. This technique can help minimize wrinkles and maximize space.

To prevent wrinkles during travel, you can use a wrinkle-release spray on your suit before packing it. Simply mist the suit with the spray and smooth out any creases with your hands. The spray will help relax the fabric and reduce the chances of deep wrinkles setting in while you’re on the move.

Arriving at Your Destination

When learning the best way to pack a suit, consider arrival as part of the process.

When you arrive at your destination, take your suit out of the suitcase as soon as possible. This will help get rid of clothing wrinkles by allowing them to fall out naturally and prevent more from forming. Hang your suit jacket on a sturdy hanger and allow it to air out.

If you plan on taking a shower, consider hanging your suit up in the bathroom. The steam from your shower can further release wrinkles in the fabric.

Many hotel rooms have irons and ironing boards you can use to smooth out your suit even more.  If you frequently travel, investing in a portable garment steamer can be a game-changer. It quickly removes wrinkles and freshens up your suit without the need for an ironing board.

---

Packing a suit for your next business formal trip doesn’t have to be a hassle. With the right products, techniques, and travel necessities, you can ensure your suit looks impeccable no matter where your travels take you.