Whether you are traveling for an important business trip or other adventure, there are several reasons why you may want to take a suit on a plane. But can you take a suit on a plane? And how can you fly with a suit while keeping it wrinkle-free?
You can take your suit on a plane on any airline without any restrictions, and the best way to take a suit on a plane is by using a garment bag (or a hanging bag), to prevent wrinkles and ensure it arrives in good condition
The TSA and most major airlines do not have any restrictions on taking suits or tuxedos on board airplanes.
This post gives you an overview and the best practices on how to travel with your suit and ensure it stays in good shape throughout your journey.
Let’s dive right in.
TL;DR
- You can take a suit on a plane with no restrictions.
- A garment bag is the best option for keeping it wrinkle-free.
- Garment bags usually count as carry-on luggage.
- You can also fold or roll your suit and pack it in a suitcase or backpack.
- Unpack and hang your suit as soon as you arrive to prevent wrinkles.
How Do I Take My Suit Through TSA?
The TSA doesn’t specifically mention anything about suits on its website.
But you can obviously bring your suit, even with a hanger, through the security checkpoint without any issues (see the screenshot below).
It is preferable if you transport your suit in a garment bag and take it on board.
Wearing your suit during a long flight is not advisable, as it can lead to wrinkles and discomfort, even when going through the security checkpoint.
Alternatively, you can also roll your suit and place it inside your suitcase.
If you use a hard-sided suitcase, that’s an advantage it will help keep your folded suit in shape until you get to your destination.
Does a Suit Count as a Carry-on?
If you wonder whether a suit carrier or garment bag will count as hand luggage, the answer is yes, but it will depend mostly on the size of your garment bag.
A garment bag or suit carrier will be counted as your carry-on luggage on most airlines, so it needs to be within your airline’s size and weight limits.
Most airlines will count your garment bag as a carry-on.
For example, as seen in the screenshot below, when KarenLee’s husband wanted to bring a suit in a garment bag on an AA flight, the AA team replied that he could take a soft-sided garment bag up to 51 inches as a carry-on item.
The same rules apply with JetBlue.
JetBlue replied to Cara that wedding dresses, suits, or tuxedos must meet the baggage requirements because planes do not have closets or hanging space for suits.
JetBlue carry-ons must not exceed 22″ x 14″ x 9″, and all carry-on items must fit in the overhead storage compartment.
Personal items must be 17″ x 13″ x 8″ and fit under the seat in front of you (use this luggage calculator for other airlines).
How to Pack and Bring a Suit on a Plane?
Is it OK to pack a suit in a suitcase? Yes by rolling or folding it.
Folding your suit for a flight is a bit tricky if you are not familiar with it. Here are some easy steps to follow:
- Lay trousers flat on a flat surface.
- Turn both shoulders of the jacket inside out and tuck them in.
- Fold the jacket in half, making sure the lapels meet each other.
- Place the jacket on top of the trousers and fold the top and bottom halves together.
- Fold the bottom half of the trousers over the jacket.
- Fold the top of the jacket over the trousers.
It is preferable not to pack any other items on top of your suit, as extra weight can cause wrinkles. Once you reach your destination, ensure that you take your suit out and hang it.
TIP
Can You Pack a Suit in a Backpack?
You can use a backpack instead of a suitcase if you want to travel light.
It is smaller, easy to carry, and minimizes excess baggage charges and the hassle of a garment bag.
In addition, the backpack can also have a compartment to carry your shoes and ties.
Using a backpack, even on a business trip, is more versatile and is becoming trendy.
However, it is advised to take your suit out immediately upon arrival. This will minimize any wrinkles and make it easy to de-wrinkle.
Final Thoughts On Carrying a Suit On a Plane.
Now you know that you can carry a suit on a plane.
It is easy as pie.
I prefer to fold my suit and place it inside my suitcase.
But if you prefer rolling your suit, tightly rolling it allows for much more compact packing.
It won’t take longer, and you will be able to fit more clothes in your bag and reduce checked baggage fees.
I hope this helps.
Happy travels.
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