Storing Sport Coats: Flight Edition

Travelling with a sport coat can be a challenge, especially if you want to keep it in pristine condition. The best way to avoid creases and wrinkles is to wear the jacket during the flight, but this isn't always practical or comfortable. If you'd prefer not to wear your sport coat, there are several ways to store it. You can use a hanging bag, which is designed to hold suits and jackets, and ask the flight attendant to hang it in a closet. Alternatively, you can carefully fold the jacket and place it in your carry-on luggage or the overhead compartment. Some people also recommend rolling the jacket, which minimises creases, but takes up more space.

Ask a flight attendant to hang it up

Asking a flight attendant to hang up your sport coat is a great way to ensure it stays wrinkle-free during your flight. Here are some detailed instructions on how to do this:

First, it is important to note that this option is more feasible if you are seated towards the front or the back of the plane, in First Class or Business Class, as these sections typically have closets. If you are seated in the middle of the plane, it may be more difficult to access the closets, and you might want to consider an alternative storage method.

When you board the plane, try to make your way to the front or back, where the flight attendants are usually stationed. Politely ask one of them if they could hang up your sport coat for you. They are often happy to oblige if they are not busy. If you are seated in First Class or Business Class, you can request that your jacket be hung in one of the closets in these sections. If not, the flight attendant may be able to hang it in a different area.

If you are hesitant to let your jacket out of your sight, you might want to consider carrying a small hook or clip with you. A cheap, small carabiner can be attached to your jacket, and then hung on the tray latch of the seat in front of you. This way, you can keep your jacket with you while still hanging it up.

Additionally, if you are planning to wear your sport coat on the plane, it is a good idea to bring a garment bag. This will allow you to safely store your jacket in the overhead bin if the flight attendant is unable to hang it for you.

Remember, it is always a good idea to treat the flight attendants with respect and kindness. They are there to help you, and a polite request is more likely to be granted.

Use a full-length garment bag

A full-length garment bag is a great way to store your sport coat on a flight and keep it wrinkle-free. Here are some tips on how to use one effectively:

First, it's important to note that a garment bag is considered a carry-on item by most airlines. So, if you plan to bring other luggage, consider choosing an airline that allows you to store your garment bag in an onboard closet. This way, you can hang your bag and coat securely and avoid having to fold it.

If you need to fold your garment bag, practice doing so before you pack your coat. Garment bags are designed to fold in half or thirds, but incorrect folding can create more wrinkles in your coat. Pay attention to how it folds so you can do it smoothly once it's packed.

When packing your sport coat, start by washing and ironing it beforehand. This will ensure you have less work to do when you arrive at your destination. You can also stuff the arms of the coat with white tissue paper to maintain its shape and prevent wrinkles.

Hang your coat on a hanger, preferably wire due to its lightweight and space-saving properties. If your garment bag doesn't come with built-in hangers, you can use your own or a pant hanger to secure the coat. Save space by hanging multiple items on each hanger, such as a shirt under the coat.

Use a plastic dry cleaning bag over each hanger to prevent wrinkles caused by friction between garments. Then, carefully fold the garment bag and secure it with zippers or snaps.

When you arrive at your destination, remove the coat from the bag as soon as possible and hang it up. This will allow any wrinkles to relax. If needed, you can steam your coat by hanging it in a steamy bathroom or using a portable garment steamer.

Fold it and place it in the overhead bin

If you're travelling with a sport coat, it's best to wear it onto the plane. This way, you don't have to worry about packing it at all. However, if you're on a long flight, you might want to take it off and store it in the overhead bin.

To fold your sport coat, start by placing it flat on a surface, unbuttoned. Then, fold one shoulder inside out and underneath the jacket. Flip it over and pull the other shoulder under the first. Now, fold it in half twice. Place it in the overhead bin, preferably on top of other luggage to avoid anything being placed on top of it.

If you want to hang your sport coat, you can ask a flight attendant to hang it for you. Alternatively, you can use a clip to hang it on the tray table latch.

Wear it on the plane

Wearing a sports coat on a flight is a great option if you're heading to a function as soon as you land. It's also a good way to command respect from the TSA and your fellow travellers.

If you're only on the plane for a few hours, wrinkling should be limited to the waist area, which is generally covered when you're wearing the jacket. However, if you're on a longer flight, you might want to take your jacket off and hang it up.

One option is to ask a flight attendant to hang it for you in the closet area at the front of the plane. If you're sitting in First Class, this is more likely to be an option. Alternatively, if you have a small bag, you can lay the jacket on top of it and store it under the seat in front of you.

If you'd rather keep your jacket with you, you can hang it on the back of your seat. Some plane seats have a hook already built into the catch that holds the tray shut. If not, you can use a small clip or a bent paper clip to hang your jacket from the tray latch.

Roll it up

Rolling your sport coat is a great way to store it on a flight, and it can help to reduce creases and wrinkles. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to roll up your sport coat:

Firstly, it is important to note that rolling a jacket does take up more space, especially vertical space, so bear this in mind when packing your bag. It also requires some creative tucking and layering, so take your time and be careful not to force the jacket, as interior wrinkles can lead to creases.

Begin by turning one shoulder inside out, and then tuck the other shoulder into it, seam against seam. The sleeves should lie straight down, one on top of the other, and the breast panels should be turned outward, sandwiching the whole thing.

Next, gently roll the jacket from the bottom up, similar to how you would roll a sleeping blanket or sleeping pad. The goal is to create a soft tube of fabric. The action should mostly happen around the shoulders and sleeves, as these areas are designed to flex. The front and back panels of the jacket will be bent gently into a curve, rather than pressed flat.

If you have a deep enough suitcase, you can also roll a shirt or a couple of pairs of underwear into the jacket. However, be careful not to cram too much inside, as this will make the roll less secure and more likely to come undone.

This method is a great way to protect your sport coat from wrinkles, as it minimises the number of folds in the fabric. By rolling your jacket, you are also able to stow it with the lining facing outward, which means that if the lining gets scuffed or stained during transport, it won't be visible when you're wearing it.

Frequently asked questions