Packing can add a wrinkle to any trip — especially when dealing with delicates. So, long before the airport lines, missed connections, and inevitable delays, why not smooth things out (literally)? We all know preparing your luggage can prove daunting. Are there more dreaded words than “I might need that later” when deciding what items go and which ones stay? But whether it’s a pair of linen shorts or a flowing satin dress, remember that packing is like every other part of a trip — you only get what you put into it. And the last thing anyone wants is bringing out the hotel iron every time you need clothes. So, when squaring off with your suitcase, consider these essential tips to keeping your delicates in pristine condition for wherever your travels might take you this summer.
Choose the Right Luggage
When it comes to packing delicates, your choice of luggage comes into play. Duffle bags, for example, can wrinkle and squish the items you pack if you’re not careful. Instead, hard-shell suitcases or sturdy soft-sided luggage will be kinder to your delicates. Plus, if you combine your luggage with packing cubes or make use of compartments to store your delicates — or tuck away sharper objects and shoes that could damage them — you’ll have no problem transporting your silks, linens, and lace items.
Use Eco-Friendly Packing Materials
Instead of plastic bags, use reusable cloth bags or old pillowcases to store your delicate items. These softer materials are gentler on fabrics and help you avoid adding more plastic to the environment. If you need extra protection, you can also use garment bags to reduce the chance of the fabrics becoming snagged or wrinkled. Plus, they can be travel-friendly as they can easily hang on hooks in cars. On the other hand, they can be more tedious if you are traveling by plane as they will need to be folded into your suitcase.
Try Folding Techniques
For delicate items including crochet tops, silk dresses, and lace bikinis, folding and rolling with care is essential to keep your items in shape after traveling. Follow these folding tips for delicate items:
- Fold Lightly: Lay the garment flat and fold it gently, avoiding sharp creases.
- Roll Delicately: If you’re packing a carry-on, rolling can save space and reduce wrinkles. Start from the bottom and roll upwards, making sure not to compress the fabric too tightly.
Layer Delicates Strategically
Layering your delicates between less fragile items in your suitcase, like basic shirts and trousers, can provide additional cushioning. Place heavier items like jeans and sweaters at the bottom of your suitcase, then layer in your delicate pieces. Top it off with lighter, less delicate items to prevent shifting during transit.
Use Tissue Paper or Fabric Sheets
Place tissue paper or fabric sheets between layers of delicates to prevent snagging and wrinkling. If you’re looking for an eco-friendly alternative, opt for recycled or biodegradable tissue paper. This extra layer acts as a buffer, keeping your delicates safe from friction and folds as you travel by plane or car.
Pack Bras and Swimsuits with Care
Bras and swimsuits can lose their shape if not packed correctly. Here’s how to do it right:
- Stack Your Bras: Stack bras on top of each other, folding the cups into each other. This maintains their shape and saves space.
- Stuff the Cups: Use socks or underwear to stuff the cups and keep them from being crushed.
- For swimsuits: Remove the cups and add them to your stack of bras before folding them gently.
Store in a Protective Bag
If you have particularly delicate or valuable items, you might prefer storing them in a small protective bag within your suitcase. Silk, satin, and lace can all benefit from the extra layer of protection. Do a quick search online and you can find eco-friendly options made from organic cotton or recycled materials.
Pack Eco-Friendly Travel Laundry Detergent
If you’re planning to wash your delicates while away — and being environmentally responsible is also a priority — be sure to take SaltyLama’s laundry detergent sheets along with the ride (or flight). In addition to being ridiculously easy to use, these pre-measured, hypoallergenic sheets can easily slip into any suitcase or carry-on bag. Lightweight and space-saving, they also come in compostable, biodegradable packaging, which means you are reducing the amount of plastic waste that winds up in oceans and landfills. Plus, in addition to being perfect for sensitive skin, they are also effective yet gentle on your most delicate fabrics, ensuring your clothes stay in top condition while you travel this summer.
Leave Suitcase Space for Souvenirs
Remember, if you are going on a summer vacation, there will probably be a few things you’ll want to bring back with you. Pack smartly and leave space in your suitcase for any souvenirs or extra items you might acquire during your travels. This way you won’t crowd what you’ve already carefully packed — or worse, have to consider leaving something behind on the trip home.
Secure with Care
Once you’ve packed your delicates and other items, be sure to close up and fasten in your suitcase so your wardrobe and other items don’t get jostled during transit. If your suitcase has built-in compression straps, use them to secure things in place. If that’s not an option, you can use eco-friendly luggage straps or reusable packing tape or eco-friendly luggage straps to seal everything safely inside.
Unpack Mindfully
Congratulations! You made it to your destination intact! But you’re not quite done yet. Once you arrive, take your time to unpack rather than quickly empty your bags. Hang your delicates so any wrinkles can smooth out naturally. You can also run a warm shower to steam them.
Packing your suitcase with delicates doesn’t have to be a stressful ordeal. By using these essential packing tips, you can ensure your favorite fragile garments and items remain in perfect condition during your trip. So, pack wisely, travel sustainably, and enjoy your summer adventures with peace of mind!