Top 9 Tips for Flying with Your Wedding Dress + Best Garment Bags
Getting ready for your destination wedding is an exciting time. You have your resort and venue picked out, plane tickets bought, and your dream wedding dress. And then you remember when you’re packing for your destination wedding that you have to fly with your dress.
I can tell you that travelling with my wedding dress was the last thing on my mind. So much so, that my mom was sewing a loop on the end of the garment bag so I could loop it over the hanger for transport.
Let this blog be your guide on how to fly with your wedding dress with these tips I’ve garnered over the years. It’s not as scary as you think, as long as you’re prepared!

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Tips for Flying with a Wedding Dress
Your wedding dress is more than just a piece of clothing; it’s a symbol of one of the most important days of your life. When it comes to travelling with such a delicate and precious garment for your wedding, careful planning and attention to detail are essential!
1. Invest in a Quality Garment Bag
Start by choosing a high-quality garment bag to protect your wedding dress. Opt for a bag that is made of durable, water-resistant material to shield your gown from unexpected spills or weather-related mishaps.
A sturdy garment bag with ample padding will provide an extra layer of protection during transit. Two popular garment bag options are the 66” Wallybags Garment Bag, or the Amazon 66” Tri-fold garment bag that almost just as good. Wallybags are notorious for being able to accommodate other outfits, and shoes for yourself and your significant other.
Now, if you’re a budget bride like myself, you can travel with your wedding dress two other ways: in the garment bag it came in from the bridal salon, or packed neatly in a carry-on suitcase to take on board with you.
A regular garment bag won’t do a great job protecting your dress from any spills, nor will it allow you to pack any other items in the bag, but it is an option (and one I took, too)!
If you prefer to pack it in a carry-on suitcase but are nervous of how to pack it, ask your bridal salon to fold it and pack it for you in your carry-on.

2. Carry it Onboard
Never, I repeat, never ever check your wedding dress. Be sure to bring it on board with you. Check your airline’s policy on carry on items and personal items, as well as what your wedding dress counts as.
By bringing on board with you, you’ll ensure it actually arrives, and you can keep an eye on it. Plus, it won’t be subject to the rough handling that checked luggage often experiences.
3. Check your Airline Carry-On Policy
It’s important to research your airline’s carry-on baggage policy well ahead of time. There’s a myth that you’re able to hang your dress in a closet – because I hate to break it to you – but many airlines don’t actually have a closet. Some airlines (like Sunwing in Canada) have a dedicated overhead bin, but otherwise your gown will be in the overhead compartment like the rest of the baggage.
Of course, you do have the option to purchase a second seat just for your dress. I’ve seen it happen!
4. Use Tissue Paper
Place acid-free tissue paper between the layers of your dress to prevent them from rubbing against each other during transit. This will help minimize the risk of wrinkles and creases.
5. Consider Professional Packing
If you’re particularly nervous about transporting your wedding dress, you may want to consider professional packing services. Some companies specialize in carefully packaging and shipping delicate items, ensuring your gown arrives at its destination unharmed.

6. Secure Accessories Separately
If your dress has intricate accessories like a veil, detachable train, or delicate embellishments, pack them separately to avoid damage. Place them in a smaller bag within the main garment bag or carry them in your personal item for added protection.
7. Protect Against the Elements
Be prepared for unexpected weather conditions by placing a small weather-resistant pouch containing a few moisture-absorbing packs inside the garment bag. This extra layer of protection can safeguard your dress from humidity or light rain.
8. Steam it Upon Arrival
Pack a portable steamer or check with your accommodation to see if they provide steaming services – some wedding packages include this, too! Arriving a day or two before the wedding will give you ample time to remove any wrinkles and ensure your dress is in perfect condition for the big day. I hung my dress in the closet (in the bag) and it was wrinkle-free!
9. Have a Dress Emergency Kit
Pack a small DIY emergency kit with sewing supplies, stain remover, and a lint roller. Having these items on hand can be a lifesaver in case of any last-minute mishaps.

Top Garment Bags for Wedding Dress Travel
- 66” Wallybags Garment Bag – this tried-and-true garment bag is a popular choice for brides! Not only is it long enough for your wedding dress, it also fits an insane amount of other outfits in there. This could be your welcome party dress, rehearsal dinner dress, suits, tuxedos, shoes, etc! So many brides have raved about this bag. It’s water resistant and tear resistant, ensuring your dress makes it safe and sound. Plus, there’s a handy shoulder strap for carrying.
- 66” Amazon Tri-Fold Garment Bag – This affordable option is a great choice for brides who don’t want to spend a ton on a garment bag. It’s the same length as the Wallybags, has space for multiple outfits and shoes at the bottom, and is breathable and tear resistant. The only downside is it doesn’t come with a carrying strap, only carrying handles.
- Budget option: Portable 70” Garment Bag – This setup is similar to what I did for our own destination wedding. This budget-friendly garment bag is tear resistant, water resistant, and isn’t see-through. Plus, it comes with a convenient tote bag for you to carry your folded garment bag.
Regardless which garment bag you choose, it’s one of the destination wedding essentials every bride needs!

Recap: Ease Your Mind with These Tips
I get it, the thought of flying with your wedding dress might bring on a wave of worry. But hey, I’ve been there, done that, and I’ve gathered some game-changing tips to help you sail smoothly through the skies with your precious cargo.
With careful planning and attention to detail, you can ensure that your wedding dress arrives at its destination looking as stunning as the day you fell in love with it.
- Touch Base with the Airline: A quick call ahead of time can clear up any lingering queries about their wedding dress policies if you can’t find it online.
- Garment Bag: Whichever garment bag you end up choosing, make sure it shields your dress from the chaos of travel. I got lucky carrying mine in its cotton garment bag, but there are a slew of risks when it comes to transporting your dress. Pick the best option to make yourself (and your budget) feel confident!
- Dress Rehearsal: Practice packing your dress. A run-through before the big travel day will iron out any packing creases (pun intended).
- Security Smarts: Be ready for security. Slip off your shoes, ditch the liquids, but keep that dress with you – eyes peeled and hold it close.
- Boarding Strategy: Early boarding can be your best friend. Be first and be prepared to politely ask for a safe spot for your dress.
- Last-Minute Checks: Before leaving the house, run through a quick checklist: dress, documents, and your unflappable bridal cool – because, yes, you’ve got this!
With careful planning and attention to detail, you can ensure that your wedding dress arrives at its destination looking as stunning as the day you fell in love with it! Travelling with your wedding dress isn’t as scary as it seems!
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