Traveling with Your Wedding Gown & Other Wedding Items: A How-to Guide

Traveling with your wedding gown or suit and other wedding items can be a daunting task. Whether you're heading to a destination wedding or simply transporting your gown to the ceremony location, there are a few things you need to keep in mind to ensure that everything arrives safely and in one piece.

Preparing Your Wedding Gown for Travel

The first step in traveling with your wedding gown or suit is to prepare it properly. This means taking the time to pack it carefully and securely, so that it doesn't get damaged during transit. Here are a few tips to help you get started:

• Use a garment bag to protect your gown or suit from dust and dirt. Make sure the bag is made from a breathable material, such as cotton or muslin, to prevent mildew.
• Hang your gown up in the bag, rather than folding it. This will help to prevent creases and wrinkles.
• If you're flying, consider packing your gown in a hard-sided suitcase. This will provide extra protection against damage. Another option is to pick up a Wally Bag or similar. A Wally Bag is part garment bag, part weekender carry-on luggage. You can place your wedding day accessories inside the bag, so all wedding day items are in one place.
• Place acid-free tissue paper between the folds of your gown to prevent creases and protect delicate fabrics.
• Check with your airline, and if possible, book Business or First-Class airfare. Many airlines have a closet to hang items for those traveling Business or First Class.

Transporting Your Wedding Items

In addition to your wedding gown, you may also need to transport other items, such as your veil, shoes, and jewelry. Here are a few tips to help you pack and transport these items safely:

• Use a separate bag or container for each item to prevent them from getting tangled or damaged.
• If you're flying, pack your wedding items in your carry-on luggage rather than checking them. This will give you more control over their safety and ensure that they arrive with you at your destination.
• Consider using a travel jewelry case to keep your jewelry organized and protected during transit. It is recommended to avoid packing any heirloom jewelry for your destination wedding, so those special pieces are not lost.
• For wedding decor or party favors, you'll want these in a  carry-on bag as well. You can ask a member of the bridal party to fly with this bag if needed. Some resorts and hotels allow shipping of these items dirctly to them, though it is not recommend, especially if your wedding is hosted in Mexico. Shipped items can be tied up in customs indefinitely. Have receipts of these items in the luggage, and make sure to have a label inside that says "Wedding Favors ("Favores de Bodas" in Spanish). Otherwise, you may be subject to additional taxes if inspected by a customs agent.

Arriving at Your Destination

Once you arrive at your destination, it's important to take the time to unpack and inspect your wedding items. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Hang your wedding gown or suit up as soon as possible to allow any wrinkles to naturally fall out. If your wedding package includes preparation of suit & gown, great! If not, you may want to look into adding this service; let the professionals handle these important items for you.
• Inspect your gown or suit for any damage that may have occurred during transit.
• Try on your wedding dress, shoes, and accessories to make sure everything fits properly and is in good condition. Many travelers experience slight swelling when arriving in the Caribbean. If your shoes are tight, reduce your salt and alcohol intake and be sure to rehydrate after your travel day.

Final Thoughts

Traveling with your wedding gown or suit and other wedding items can be stressful, but with a little bit of preparation and care, you can ensure that everything arrives safely and in one piece. Remember to pack everything carefully, transport your items in your carry-on luggage if possible, and inspect everything carefully once you arrive at your destination. With these tips in mind, you can focus on enjoying your special day, rather than worrying about your wedding items.