Mastering the Art of Suitcase Packing

Packing a suitcase efficiently and effectively can save you time, minimise wrinkles, and ensure your clothes arrive at your destination in pristine condition. When it comes to packing delicate garments like suits, jackets, waistcoats, and shirts, a little extra care is needed. Take a look at our essential tips and techniques to help you pack these items with precision and care...

Preparing your Suit

Before packing your suit, ensure it is clean and wrinkle-free. Take the following steps:

a. Hang your suit for a day or two after dry cleaning to let any residual wrinkles naturally fall out.

b. Invest in a suit garment bag to protect your suit from dust and damage during travel.

c. Lay the suit jacket flat on a clean surface, fold one shoulder inside out, and fold the jacket in half lengthwise.

d. Place the folded jacket in the garment bag with the collar on top and sleeves aligned.

e. Fold your suit trousers in half lengthwise and place them on top of the jacket, ensuring the creases align. Fold the garment bag and secure it.

Packing a Jacket

To pack a jacket separately, there are a number of different techniques:

a. Lay the jacket flat on a clean surface with the front facing down.

b. Fold one shoulder inside out and fold the jacket in half lengthwise, aligning the shoulders.

c. Place tissue paper or a clean shirt over the jacket's shoulders to help preserve its shape.

d. Roll the jacket from the bottom up, ensuring it is tightly packed.

e. Place the rolled jacket in the suitcase with the shoulders positioned against the sides.

Alternatively, take a look at our video and follow this ingenious technique that King & Allen founder, Jake Allen, uses.

Handling a Waistcoat

To pack a waistcoat, try the following:

a. Lay the waistcoat flat on a clean surface.

b. Fold one side inward, aligning the shoulder seams, and then fold the other side to meet it.

c. Place the folded waistcoat in a clear plastic bag to prevent friction and protect it from other items in the suitcase.

d. Lay the bagged waistcoat flat in the suitcase, ideally on top of other folded garments.

Or, again, take a look at our YouTube video on how to fold a waistcoat.

Organizing Shirts

When packing shirts, employ these useful techniques:

a. Button all the buttons and lay the shirt flat on a clean surface.

b. Fold one sleeve back to create a straight line from the shoulder to the hem.

c. Fold the other sleeve in the same manner, overlapping the first sleeve.

d. Fold the shirt in half lengthwise, aligning the shoulders.

e. Place tissue paper or a plastic bag between each folded shirt to minimize friction and creasing.

f. Stack the shirts vertically in the suitcase, collar-side up, to save space and prevent wrinkling.

Additional Tips

• Place heavier items, such as shoes or toiletries, at the bottom of the suitcase.
• Utilise packing cubes or compression bags to maximize space and organization.
• Pack accessories, like ties and pocket squares, in a separate small bag or pocket within the suitcase.
• Consider using a garment folder or rolling method for casual clothing items.

Remember to plan ahead, invest in suitable garment bags, and utilize proper folding techniques. With a little practice, packing like a pro will become second nature, allowing you to travel with confidence and style!