There is a lot of preparation that goes into organising a destination wedding.
The logistics of transporting your bridal gown may go overlooked while securing your perfect wedding venue, arranging travel for friends and family, and crafting your ideal wedding day with your providers.
But since you're organising a destination wedding, you'll need to figure out how to get your dress to where you'll be saying your vows.
If you've never travelled with a wedding gown before, don't worry; we've got you covered.
It is feasible to securely travel with the wedding dress, regardless of whether the destination wedding reception is in a tropical location or somewhere domestic.
As such, we sought the advice of two professionals in the field and asked them to fill us in on the best way to travel with the wedding dress in the air without any hassle.
While the thought of tying the knot in a far-flung location is attractive, the practicalities of planning such a wedding can be challenging to manage.
Even if everything is taken care of once you get there, the stress of making it to the wedding without breaking anything or leaving anything behind makes anyone anxious.
Your wedding gown, suit, or tuxedo will need special handling when travelling, so keep that in mind when preparing for your destination wedding.
It's also essential for guests to plan when packing their formal dress for the journey; otherwise, they may have to wear sweats to the wedding and reception.
How to Travel by Plane with a Wedding Dress
As the destination wedding approaches, you might ask yourself: "Can I bring a wedding dress on a plane?"
The short answer to this critical issue is "yes," albeit individual airline policies will differ.
Travelling by air in a bridal gown is possible, but advance preparation is required.
You are responsible for transporting your wedding dress to the ceremony location, though your dressmaker or tailor may be able to offer suggestions based on your unique dress's design.
The designer's responsibilities end with creating your gown and delivering it to the store where you made your purchase.
Once the dress has been altered, the newlyweds are responsible for transporting it to the wedding.
Neither Check-In Nor Ship Your Wedding Gown
Never check a dress that has been folded up in a bag at the luggage counter, ever. Don't send it off, either.
There is a wide range of potential complications. If your bag gets lost or ruined, you could be on a gorgeous island without your favourite dress.
No faith in us? Here's a story about a bride whose wedding dress almost didn't make it to the ceremony.
In addition to giving you peace of mind, travelling with only a carry-on is the best option if you need to iron or steam your dress afterwards.
Before Booking Your Flight, Be Sure to Review the Baggage Restrictions Imposed by Your Airline
Always verify the airline's policies before boarding with your bridal dress in tow.
Depending on the airline, you can either put it into the overhead bin or hang it up in the closet.
Some airlines designate a special overhead compartment specifically for ladies' attire.
Call them up and enquire regarding their wedding dress return policy if you can't find it on their website.
Don't assume the airline will automatically know you're carrying valuable clothing until you arrive.
If you anticipate needing more space in your carry-on bag, it's best to request it reasonably in advance of your flight.
Verify that a note will be made in the reservation.
In addition, explaining why is helpful. Be thorough and careful: Getting in touch with the airline before your trip is highly recommended.
For instance, they might alert the staff to the presence of garment bags among the passengers.
Before proceeding through security, it is recommended that you check in with an airport worker to ensure that you are indeed flying.
Like any other travel-related correspondence, any discussion of increased baggage allowances should be marked in your inbox for easy access.
Is a wedding gown considered a carry-on?
There is a significant distinction as to whether the wedding gown is classified as a carry-on or a personal item, and you will discover varied responses to this question.
Consequently, it is in everyone's best financial interest to arrive at the airport well-prepared to avoid unexpected charges.
Purchase a good garment bag
Investing in a strong garment bag to store and travel your wedding dress is a must.
Bringing your wedding dress home inside the garment bag from the bridal shop is one option, but larger garment bags are also available that can accommodate more than just the dress.
In the words of many a bride, these tailored garment bags were a godsend. They have a lot of room, which is excellent because most airlines consider garment bags carry-on items.
They may be neatly folded in half and stowed away in the overhead compartment or hung up in the wardrobe of your airline.
It can't be avoided in any way. Packing your clothes inside a garment bag is the best method to protect them from being crushed by an overzealous suitcase or ruined by the spilled coffee of a fellow travelling.
Even while hanging, nuances will be considered with each piece of clothing.
Consider purchasing a garment bag equipped with a hanger for more accessible travel through airports.
You can use these to carry strollers and some baggage as you pass through the terminal.
When packing for the overhead bin, it's helpful to have items that can be folded easily. Also, ensure it closes securely with a zipper if customs or security checkpoint personnel need to inspect its contents.
If you're lost in the maze that is garment bags, consult your designer for guidance.
A good garment bag has the following features, whether purchased online or in a store: water-resistant fabric, zipper access, and either an integrated hanger or a place to insert your own.
Better yet, if it comes with a couple of pockets.
Think about the dimensions of your ensemble; a dress stuffed with tulle will quickly take up all available space.
Its see-through construction is fantastic for safety and will also allow you to maintain an eye on the dress to ensure it doesn't get too baggy.
If your dress is on the smaller side and made of a material that can be rolled or folded, you might want to look into a duffel bag with a shoulder strap that can serve as a purse.
Those who purchase the large carry-on do have the option of buying a centrefold garment sleeve, a feature that is exclusive to certain suitcase brands. Since space is limited, this choice is best for garments that do not require ironing or folding.
Keep In Mind That Not All Flights Come Equipped With Closets
Most individuals will advise you to request that the flight attendants hang your clothing bags.
And although that's perfectly acceptable in a few scenarios, it's not doable on a few paths.
Although some flights may have a closet room or wardrobe where the dress could be kept, this is not always the case.
But it's not hopeless, and keeping your cool is essential if you can't find it.
One can always look to other options.
Put the gown in the overhead bin with the help of a crew member. It's full, so you should get on the plane early.
Don't let a long flight dampen the joy of selecting the ideal ensemble.
Take these suggestions into account while making your travel plans, and be extra courteous to the flight crew who assists you in stowing your garment bag.
How to Travel by Car with a Wedding Dress
If you're taking a car to the wedding and will be in transit for some time, you should fold your clothes and store them in the trunk or backseat.
There is air conditioning in the back, so that's where you should sit.
Don't keep your wedding dress in the car for too long, as the heat might cause the beading to fade and turn the dress yellow. It would be best if you were somewhere colder or darker.
Even though sending your clothing may seem convenient, you should avoid doing so.
Knowing these crucial, high-priced items may not come on time is a source of immense stress.
Furthermore, you will always treat your wedding clothes with more excellent care and thought than everyone else.
Post Travel Unpacking
Now that you have a dress and a bag to transport it in, you might think about having the resort where you will have the ceremony press and steam the dress.
Do not put this off until the last minute; instead, have your organiser or concierge take care of getting your dress to the proper place for the ceremony within several hours of your arrival.
Verify That a Steamer Will Be Available at Your Destination
It may seem obvious, but it's easy to forget when packing for a vacation of this nature.
Since not all hotels provide steamers—and in some circumstances, you won't even have access to iron—we think a wedding planner must own one.
If you're planning a destination wedding without a local attendant, the day before the ceremony, either bring a powerful travel steamer or ask your hotel if they have one available.
Also, double-check the voltage and plug type before you depart to prevent any last-minute panic.
If you're travelling light, you probably don't want to waste space in your bag on an ineffective instrument.
Look for a steamer with considerable power if you intend to bring your own.
The handheld garment steamer is ready to use in less than a minute after being plugged in, and its eight-foot wire is ideal for use in hotel washrooms with unusual power configurations.
A Portable Steamer Is a Must Have
Don't forget to carry an emergency steamer, either for yourself or to assign to a wedding party member.
It's always possible that the steamer at your location or accommodation is faulty or used by someone else.
Portable equipment is cheap and straightforward to transport. The golden rule applies here: better safe than sorry!
When planning your wedding wardrobe, remember that any travel can cause wrinkles.
Don't freak out if you encounter a shape on the road: Ironing out wrinkles is as simple as steaming them out.
Take your clothes out of the garment bag as soon as you get there to allow the fabric to settle, eliminating some of the wrinkles.
If necessary, steam the remaining creases out.
Worst case scenario, you forgot the steamer, don't worry; hang your garment near the shower and let the hot water run for a few minutes.
You may steam your clothes in the bathroom just as long as you need to remove all the creases if you close the door.
Even if it doesn't remove all of the wrinkles from your formalwear, at least the ones you can see will be less obvious.
You'll Need a Sewing Kit, so Be Sure to Pack One
Get ready to go on your trip. It's not uncommon for unexpected problems to arise at the last minute.
You should carry a needle and thread to fix any loose strings or ripped seams on your dress and a dusting brush to get rid of stray hairs so that the big moment can be perfect.
Don't Give in to the Pressure
Nonetheless, transporting a bridal gown has proven to be a unique source of difficulty.
Remember that brides don't carry their dresses around with them daily.
The airport, the airline, and the flight attendants are accustomed to and prepared to assist passengers.
If you're nice to others, they'll be careful with your stuff since they take satisfaction in doing a good job.
It helps to play the bride card.
Destination wedding dresses are notorious for arriving with at least a few wrinkles, no matter how carefully they are packaged for transport.
Drape the gown in the shower as you run the water to create steam and iron out the wrinkles.
However, it would be best if you avoided getting the clothing wet. You may also use a travel steamer, but make sure it's spotless and test the fabric first to ensure it can withstand being ironed.
Preparing for a wedding in a distant location calls for some forward preparation. Get in touch with your wedding planner and honeymoon travel advisers as soon as possible to get comprehensive assistance.
MyDressBox is are wedding dress cleaning and preservation specialists servicing all major cities in Australia and New Zealand, including Melbourne, Sydney, Perth, Brisbane, Adelaide, Canberra, Hobart, Gold Coast, Newcastle, Sunshine Coast, Wollongong, Geelong and many more.
Conclusion
It's easy to forget about the details of getting your wedding dress to the ceremony location when you're having a destination wedding.
It is possible to safely transport the wedding dress yet if the reception is in a tropical place or elsewhere in the country.
It is feasible to fly, but you will need to make arrangements in advance.
Don't ever fold your wedding dress up and check it at the airport's baggage desk. You shouldn't send it either.
Getting your bag stolen or damaged could leave you stranded on a beautiful island without your essentials.
Before checking in with your wedding dress in tow, make sure to double check the airline's regulations.
Putting your clothing in a cloth bag is the easiest method to prevent it from getting squished by your suitcase.
The best clothing bags have a waterproof exterior, easy access via zipper, and a hook or space to add your own.
While the dress may theoretically be stored in a closet or wardrobe on board some planes, this is by no means guaranteed.
It's not a good idea to leave the wedding gown inside the car for an extended period of time because the sun's rays could melt the beading and make the garment yellow.
Ensure that there will be a Steamer at your final destination.
If you're trying to pack as little as possible for your trip, an inefficient instrument is probably not something you want to bring along.
Carry a travel steamer or find out whether the hotel where you are being married has one the day before your ceremony if you won't have a local attendant.
Unanticipated issues frequently materialise right before a deadline.
Content Summary
- But since you're organising a destination wedding, you'll need to figure out how to get your dress to where you'll be saying your vows.
- It is feasible to securely travel with the wedding dress, regardless of whether the destination wedding reception is in a tropical location or somewhere domestic.
- As such, we sought the advice of two professionals in the field and asked them to fill us in on the best way to travel with the wedding dress in the air without any hassle.
- Travelling by air in a bridal gown is possible, but advance preparation is required.
- Never check a dress that has been folded up in a bag at the luggage counter, ever.
- In addition to giving you peace of mind, travelling with only a carry-on is the best option if you need to iron or steam your dress afterwards.
- Always verify the airline's policies before boarding with your bridal dress in tow.
- Be thorough and careful: Getting in touch with the airline before your trip is highly recommended.
- There is a significant distinction as to whether the wedding gown is classified as a carry-on or a personal item, and you will discover varied responses to this question.
- They may be neatly folded in half and stowed away in the overhead compartment or hung up in the wardrobe of your airline.
- Packing your clothes inside a garment bag is the best method to protect them from being crushed by an overzealous suitcase or ruined by the spilled coffee of a fellow travelling.
- Consider purchasing a garment bag equipped with a hanger for more accessible travel through airports.
- Most individuals will advise you to request that the flight attendants hang your clothing bags.
- Put the gown in the overhead bin with the help of a crew member.
- If you're taking a car to the wedding and will be in transit for some time, you should fold your clothes and store them in the trunk or backseat.
- Don't keep your wedding dress in the car for too long, as the heat might cause the beading to fade and turn the dress yellow.
- If you're planning a destination wedding without a local attendant, the day before the ceremony, either bring a powerful travel steamer or ask your hotel if they have one available.
- Look for a steamer with considerable power if you intend to bring your own.
- Don't forget to carry an emergency steamer, either for yourself or to assign to a wedding party member.
- Portable equipment is cheap and straightforward to transport.
- Don't freak out if you encounter a shape on the road: Ironing out wrinkles is as simple as steaming them out.
- Remember that brides don't carry their dresses around with them daily.
- Drape the gown in the shower as you run the water to create steam and iron out the wrinkles.
- Preparing for a wedding in a distant location calls for some forward preparation.
- Get in touch with your wedding planner and honeymoon travel advisers as soon as possible to get comprehensive assistance.
FAQS ABOUT TRAVELING WITH A WEDDING DRESS
Can I take my wedding dress on the plane?
Your wedding dress is permitted as one piece of carry-on luggage; however, there is a limit of one piece per passenger. This means it must be small enough and light enough to be considered carry-on luggage. During the flight, you'll need to store it in the overhead bin.
How do you sit in a car with a wedding dress?
If you're taking a vehicle trip, the best way to keep your wedding dress wrinkle-free is to suspend it from a hook or flip down the handle above one of the back seat doors, then drape the remainder of the garment across the back seat.
Can you hang a dress on a plane?
Dresses should be dried and stored in a plastic dry-cleaning bag, which should then be put in a garment bag for travel. You can bring the dress in your carry-on luggage if your airline has a closet where you can hang your garment bag. Even if you have to check your suitcase, clothes will not get wrinkled as much if they are stored in a garment bag.
How do you transport a satin dress?
Layer another piece of clothes over the top of the garment bag to keep the contents from shifting around. As soon as you get to your location, unpack your silk goods and hang them up to allow any minor wrinkles or creases to fall out.
Can I put my wedding dress in a vacuum bag?
Dresses should never be kept in a plastic bag or other sealed container. Putting your dress in a plastic bag or container can seem like a good idea, but the chemicals released by the plastic can cause the fabric to yellow and even discolour. Also, if there's condensation within, mould and mildew can start to grow.