Packing a suit jacket and other suit essentials properly is crucial to maintaining their shape and keeping them wrinkle-free while travelling. From business meetings to weddings, knowing how to pack a suit can tailor packing to every occasion. 

This set of instructions provides information about packing a suit jacket, pants, dress shirts and accessories into the least possible space.

Choosing the Right Packing Method

Depending on space available, suit jacket construction, and personal preference, there are multiple folding methods. Different fabrics require different techniques, so make the right choice.

The Traditional Fold (Shirt-Style Fold)

This is the most common method and works well for short trips.

1. Lay the suit jacket face down on a flat surface.
2. Fold the left shoulder inward toward the centre of the back, keeping the sleeve flat.
3. Repeat for the right shoulder, ensuring the sleeves lay parallel down the centre.
4. Fold the jacket in half horizontally, bringing the bottom up to just below the collar.
5. Flip the jacket over so the lapels face up. You should now have a neatly folded square.

Pros: Quick and easy. Cons: May create some wrinkles.

Folding with a Dry-Cleaning Bag

Using a dry-cleaning bag minimizes friction, reducing wrinkles.

1. Place the suit jacket inside a dry-cleaning bag while on a sturdy hanger.
2. Gently fold the bottom of the jacket up toward the collar line.
3. Remove excess air from the bag without pressing too firmly.
4. Place the jacket inside your suitcase.

Pros: Prevents wrinkles and friction. Cons: Requires extra space.

The Inside-Out Shoulder Fold

This technique is great for delicate fabrics like silk or satin.

1. Lay the suit jacket face down.
2. Fold the left shoulder inward toward the centre.
3. Turn the right shoulder inside out and tuck the left shoulder into it.
4. Fold the right sleeve toward the centre.
5. Fold the jacket in half, then fold it from bottom to top.
6. Pack the jacket in your suitcase or a dry-cleaning bag.

Pros: Protects the exterior fabric from wrinkles. Cons: Slightly more time-consuming.

The Tucked-Shoulder Fold

This method maximizes space while maintaining the jacket’s structure.

1. Hold the jacket by the shoulders with the back facing you.
2. Turn one shoulder inside out.
3. Tuck the opposite shoulder into the inverted shoulder.
4. Fold the bottom of the jacket up to the top.
5. Place it inside your suitcase.

Pros: Space-saving and keeps wrinkles to a minimum. Cons: Requires some practice.

The Rolled-Up Suit Jacket Method

For those looking to save space, rolling up your suit can be a great alternative.

1. Hold the jacket by the shoulders with the back facing you.
2. Turn one shoulder inside out and tuck the other shoulder into it.
3. Roll up a soft t-shirt and place it inside the shoulders to create a cylindrical support.
4. Carefully roll the jacket around the t-shirt.
5. Place the rolled jacket into your suitcase.

Pros: Saves space and avoids deep creases. Cons: May require gentle steaming upon arrival.

Packing Suit Pants

Dress pants also need proper folding to prevent wrinkles.

1. Hold the trousers by the cuffs and find the natural crease.
2. Lay them on a flat surface with one leg over the other.
3. Place the folded suit jacket in the center of the pants.
4. Fold the bottom of the pants over the jacket.
5. Fold the top of the pants down to create a compact bundle.

Pro Tip: Wrapping pants around the jacket adds a protective layer and helps prevent creases.

Packing Dress Shirts

Folding dress shirts properly ensures they stay crisp.

1. Lay the shirt flat and button it up completely.
2. Fold each sleeve toward the center.
3. Fold both edges inward by about 3 inches.
4. Fold the shirt in half horizontally twice.
5. Pack the folded shirt on top of the suit jacket.

Alternative: Use a packing cube to keep shirts separate and wrinkle-free.

Packing a Suit Vest

Folding a vest is simple:

1. Lay it flat on a surface.
2. Fold it in half vertically.
3. Fold it once more horizontally.

Packing Dress Shoes

Shoes should go at the bottom of your carry-on or suitcase to maintain balance and prevent wrinkling other items.

1. Stuff shoes with socks or small items to maintain their shape.
2. Place them in a dust bag or plastic bag to avoid transferring dirt.
3. Position them heel to toe at the bottom of the suitcase.

Final Packing Tips

• Place the suit jacket on top of other items to reduce pressure and wrinkles.
• Use tissue paper or plastic dry-cleaning bags to minimize friction.
• Pack a portable steamer or use a hot shower to remove minor wrinkles upon arrival.
• Consider using a garment bag for extra protection.

By following these methods, you can ensure your suit remains in pristine condition, ready to wear for any occasion. Happy travels!