Junior Rasmussen
Flying with a wedding dress can be a stressful experience, but with a bit of planning, it's entirely possible. Southwest Airlines is a decent option for flying with a wedding dress. While the airline doesn't have a dedicated webpage for wedding dresses, it does offer group travel packages with benefits like no change fees and group discount codes. Southwest Airlines allows wedding dresses to be transported as carry-ons in two ways: by folding and packing the gown into a standard carry-on suitcase or by gently rolling or tri-folding the dress to fit inside a garment bag, both with specific size constraints. Additionally, the cabin crew is known to be helpful and will stow away the dress safely in the overhead bin. However, it's important to note that the dress might be placed on top of other carry-ons, and there is no guarantee of a closet space. For added peace of mind, purchasing an extra seat for the dress is an option, although it will be placed on the floor in front of the seat rather than on the seat itself.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Can I take a wedding dress on a plane? | Yes, you can. |
| How to transport the wedding dress? | Place the dress inside a garment bag or fold it into a carry-on bag. |
| Southwest Airlines policy | Wedding dresses can be transported as carry-ons by folding and packing them into a standard carry-on suitcase or by gently rolling or tri-folding the dress to fit inside a garment bag. |
| Additional charges | You can purchase an extra seat for the wedding dress. |
| What tools to carry | Carry a portable steamer, a sewing kit, safety pins, and a stain remover. |
| Fabric to choose | Opt for travel-friendly fabrics like chiffon and cotton jersey. |
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What You'll Learn
- Southwest Airlines allows wedding dresses as carry-ons
- You can fold and pack your gown into a carry-on suitcase
- Alternatively, gently roll or tri-fold your dress to fit inside a garment bag
- Ask the flight attendant if they can accommodate hanging the dress in the front closet
- You can purchase an extra seat for your dress
Southwest Airlines allows wedding dresses as carry-ons
Planning a destination wedding can be a stressful affair, especially when it comes to transporting your wedding dress. Southwest Airlines allows wedding dresses to be transported as carry-ons, with two options available. Firstly, you can fold and pack your gown into a standard carry-on suitcase, which must adhere to maximum dimensions of 24 x 16 x 10 inches. Alternatively, gently roll or tri-fold your dress to fit inside a garment bag with the same size constraints. It is important to note that these rules may change, so it is recommended to consult the airline's website, app, or customer service before your trip.
Southwest Airlines does not have a dedicated webpage for destination weddings, but they offer benefits such as no change fees and group discount codes under their 'group travel packages'. While the airline does not have specific closets for hanging wedding dresses, their cabin crew is known to be helpful and will safely stow your dress in the overhead bin. If you prefer to have your dress hung, you can consider purchasing an extra seat, which some brides opt for, to lay the dress flat. However, with Southwest Airlines, the extra seat is meant for laying the dress on the floor in front of the seat rather than on the seat itself.
To ensure your dress arrives in impeccable condition, it is recommended to place it in a garment bag. Your dress may have come with its own bag, but investing in a high-quality garment bag can provide added protection. When choosing a size, opt for a larger bag to accommodate the dress comfortably, with some room for its train. Additionally, bringing a travel-friendly steam iron, a sewing kit, safety pins, and a stain remover can help address any mishaps during your travels.
It is worth noting that each airline has its own specific policies, so it is crucial to research and understand them before your trip. Some airlines, like Delta, offer early valet programs or dedicated webpages for destination weddings. Others, like United Airlines, apply standard carry-on policies, with specific dimensions for carry-on suitcases or garment bags. By planning ahead, you can confidently transport your wedding dress and ensure its safe arrival at your destination.
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You can fold and pack your gown into a carry-on suitcase
If your wedding dress is small enough, you can fold and pack it into a carry-on suitcase. It's best to use a sturdy garment bag to protect your dress and minimise the risk of damage. You can also buy a seat for your dress if your budget allows.
Before packing your dress, request that the salon, retailer or designer prepare it for travel. If you're doing it yourself, lay the dress flat and use tissue paper to mould it in a way that fills in the bust area and other structured sections. If your dress has beading or sequins, wrap tissue paper around it and secure the ends with tape to avoid snagging. Place tissue paper between each fold to avoid any damage to the beading.
When folding your dress, keep the folds loose to prevent creasing. If your dress has a long train, leave it bustled to avoid wrinkles. You can also roll your dress instead of folding it to avoid deep creases. Pack a wrinkle-release spray and a portable steamer to remove any wrinkles when you arrive.
Don't forget to check your airline's carry-on policies for size and weight limitations. It's also a good idea to carry any accessories you'll need for your wedding day, such as lingerie, shoes, jewellery and a veil, in your hand luggage.
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Alternatively, gently roll or tri-fold your dress to fit inside a garment bag
When preparing to fly with a wedding dress, it is important to keep it safe and avoid any damage. One way to do this is by gently rolling or tri-folding the dress to fit inside a garment bag. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do this:
Firstly, select a suitable garment bag. It should be made of thick plastic or other strong material to provide adequate protection for your dress. Ensure the bag is long enough to cover your entire dress and that it fully zips closed from top to bottom. You may also want to consider turning your wedding dress inside out before placing it in the bag for extra protection.
Now, let's prepare the dress. Start by laying your dress flat on a clean, hard surface. If your dress has sleeves, fold them inward across the chest so they lay flat. Next, carefully fold the dress in half lengthwise, aligning the skirt's side seams. If there is excess material, fold it towards the middle to create a neat rectangle.
At this point, you can start to gently roll the bottom half of the dress, including the train, towards the waistline. Keep rolling slowly, ensuring the folds stay in place, until the dress is compact enough to fit comfortably inside the garment bag. If your dress is particularly voluminous, you may need to tri-fold it instead of rolling it. To do this, after folding it in half lengthwise, fold it in half again, or into thirds, depending on its size.
Once your dress is rolled or folded, carefully place it inside the garment bag. Pull the top of the hanger through the opening at the top of the bag, keeping the bottom half of the dress outside for now. Then, carefully fold the left and right sides of the bottom towards the centre and slowly roll the train until it fits inside the bag. Finally, gently zip up the bag, running your finger along the inside of the zipper as you go, to avoid snagging the fabric.
By following these steps, you can confidently transport your wedding dress in your garment bag. Remember to handle the dress with care and consider adding a note to the TSA agents, requesting they repack it carefully if necessary.
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Ask the flight attendant if they can accommodate hanging the dress in the front closet
If you're travelling with a wedding dress, it's important to plan ahead. While your dress designer or tailor can offer advice on how to travel with your specific gown, it's up to you to get it to your destination.
Some airlines do have closets available for passenger use, but it's a good idea to call ahead to check. If the airline does have a closet, ask the flight attendant if they can accommodate hanging the dress there. This ensures it won't get jostled during the flight or cramped in an overhead bin.
If the airline does not have a closet, you may need to purchase an extra seat for your dress, preferably a window seat. On Southwest Airlines, for example, you can lay the dress on the floor in front of the seat. Alternatively, you can fold the dress and place it in a carry-on bag or suitcase, or in a garment bag that meets the airline's size requirements.
If you do need to fold your dress, opt for a fabric with some structure that can bounce back from packing, such as denser satins, mikado, or ballgown tulle. If your dress is made from delicate silks, satins, or chiffons, it may be worth asking if it can be professionally packed in tissue and boxed for travel.
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You can purchase an extra seat for your dress
If you're planning to fly Southwest with your wedding dress, you can purchase an extra seat for your gown. This option is ideal if you want to avoid cramming your dress into an overhead bin or checking it in.
While Southwest Airlines does not have closets to hang your gown, you can lay your dress on the floor in front of the extra seat you've purchased. This way, you can ensure that your dress remains secure and wrinkle-free throughout the flight.
It is important to note that purchasing an extra seat for your wedding dress can be costly, and it may not always be necessary. If your dress is small and can fit in a carry-on bag or suitcase, you may not need to buy an extra seat. Additionally, some airlines offer hanging closets or extra space in the first-class cabin for bridal gown storage, so it is worth calling the airline ahead of time to inquire about these options.
However, if you have a large or poofy gown that won't fit in the overhead bin or if you simply want the peace of mind of having an extra seat for your dress, purchasing an additional seat can be a good option. By doing so, you can rest assured that your dress will arrive safely and wrinkle-free at your destination.
When planning to purchase an extra seat for your wedding dress, be sure to book in advance and arrive early at the airport to allow for any necessary security checks and to ensure that you can securely stow your gown.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can, but you should plan ahead and specific guidelines will vary among airlines.
Place your gown inside a garment bag and abide by all the carry-on regulations of your chosen airline.
It's best to take it as a carry-on item so it doesn't leave your sight while travelling. If your airline allows you to hang your dress in a closet, that's the best option. If not, store it in the overhead compartment.
Southwest Airlines allows wedding dresses to be transported as carry-ons in one of two ways. You can fold and pack your gown into a standard carry-on suitcase, which must adhere to maximum dimensions of 24 x 16 x 10 inches. Alternatively, gently roll or tri-fold your dress to fit inside a garment bag with the same size constraints. You can also purchase an extra seat for your dress.
Delicate fabrics like silk, satin and chiffon can wrinkle extremely easily and be challenging to steam if crushed. Look for fabrics with some structure that can bounce back from packing, such as denser satins, mikado, or ballgown tulle.
