So, you’ve planned an epic destination wedding or adventure elopement, and now you’re wondering: How do I safely get my wedding dress from point A to point B without ruining it? Don’t worry! I’ve got some tips for you! Whether you’re flying across the country, road-tripping to the mountains, or even hiking up to your dream elopement spot, here’s everything you need to know about how to travel with your wedding dress!

How to Pack a Wedding Dress

First things first – you need to pack your dress RIGHT to keep it looking as good as possible. Here’s some tips on how to do it:

• Use a Garment Bag – A high-quality, breathable garment bag is your best friend. Look for one that’s long enough to accommodate your dress without scrunching it up.
  
• If your dress has layers or delicate fabric, placing colorless tissue paper between the folds can help prevent creases and fabric friction.
  
• If you’ve got a BIG, flowy gown and need to save space, a vacuum-sealed bag can help. Just be very careful not to over-compress delicate fabrics like lace or tulle.
  
• No matter how well you pack, your dress might get some wrinkles. A small, travel-friendly steamer is a lifesaver for touching up any creases once you arrive.

How to Carry a Wedding Dress on a Plane

If you’re flying to your wedding destination, you’ll want to take extra precautions to make sure your dress arrives safely.

• ALWAYS Carry It On – Do NOT (I repeat, DO NOT) check your wedding dress! Luggage gets lost, and you do NOT want your dream dress to be MIA on your wedding day.
  
• Some airlines allow wedding dresses to be hung in a first-class closet or will have special accommodations. It never hurts to call ahead and ask!
  
• If there’s no closet space available, carefully lay your dress in the overhead bin on top of other carry-ons. Avoid stuffing it into tight spaces where it could get crushed.
  
• If you have the budget, consider booking an extra seat for your dress.
  

Road Tripping with Your Wedding Dress

If you’re driving to your destination, your dress has a bit more breathing room, but you still need to be careful.

• If possible, lay your dress flat in the backseat to minimize wrinkles.
  
• Avoid heat and direct sunlight. Leaving your dress in a hot car for hours? Please, try to avoid that!

• Just like with flying, a high-quality garment bag will keep your dress safe during the journey.

Hiking with Your Wedding Dress

If you’re eloping outdoors in Colorado or somewhere else, hiking with your dress is totally doable. Some choose to hike to their ceremony spot in their attire, while some choose to change closer to their destination. If you choose to hike with your dress packed away, here are some tips to keep it nice!

• Fold your dress carefully and place it in a large backpack lined with a protective bag. You want something lightweight but secure!
  
• A portable steamer or wrinkle-release spray can help freshen up your dress once you reach your ceremony spot.
  
• If there’s a chance of rain or wet conditions, consider putting your dress in a waterproof dry bag inside your backpack. Since weather can be unpredictable, I recommend you always be prepared for wet conditions!

Some Final Tips for Your Day

• Once you arrive at your destination, hang your dress up immediately to let any minor wrinkles fall out naturally.
  
• If you don’t have a steamer, hang your dress in the bathroom while you take a hot shower—the steam will help release wrinkles.
  
• If your dress gets a minor stain during travel, use a white cloth and a little water to gently blot (never rub!).
  
• Have an emergency kit with needle & thread, safety pins, and fashion tape just in case.

I hope these tips on how to travel with your wedding dress have been helpful and have eased any stress! Happy travels! 

If you’re still looking for your dream Colorado wedding or elopement photographer, reach out to me here.