Traveling With A Wedding Gown: Tips For Flying With Your Dress

Planning a destination wedding is exciting, but it can also be stressful, especially when it comes to figuring out how to transport your wedding gown to the venue. While it's possible to fly with a wedding dress, it requires some planning. Here's a guide to help you navigate the process and ensure your gown arrives safely at your dream destination.

Packing your wedding gown

Choosing the Right Bag

Select a sturdy bag designed specifically for garments, such as a garment bag or a dress bag. This will ensure your gown remains in good condition during transit. The bag should be large enough to accommodate the gown without causing excessive folding or creasing. Additionally, look for a bag with a waterproof layer, as this will protect your gown in case of any spills or mishaps during the journey. You can also use the bag that your gown came in, provided it is in good condition and has the necessary features.

Preparing the Gown

Consult your dress designer, tailor, or a trusted dry cleaner for advice on how to pack your specific gown design. They may recommend using acid-free tissue paper to cover the dress and prevent creases. If you're worried about wrinkles, consider investing in a portable steamer to remove any creases that may form during travel. It is also advisable to seal the bag completely to protect your gown from the elements.

Carrying the Gown Onboard

Most airlines will allow you to carry your wedding gown as a carry-on item, which is the best way to ensure its safety. Contact your airline in advance to understand their specific guidelines and carry-on limitations. If your gown is particularly bulky or delicate, you may need to hold the garment bag for the duration of the flight. In such cases, consider paying for early boarding to secure enough overhead bin space.

Storing the Gown Onboard

Once you're onboard, you can request the flight attendants for assistance in storing your gown. Some aircraft have coat closets, usually in the first-class cabin area, which can be used for bridal gown storage. While closet space is not guaranteed, it is worth checking with the flight crew to see if they can accommodate your request. If you are unable to secure closet space, the overhead bin is the next best option.

Additional Considerations

If you have the flexibility in your budget, consider upgrading to a higher class of service, such as premium economy, club, or business class. This will typically provide you with more storage space and a higher luggage allowance. Additionally, be mindful of the weight and bulkiness of your gown, as carrying it onboard may be uncomfortable for long periods.

Remember, it is essential to plan ahead and be prepared for any eventualities when travelling with your wedding gown. By following these instructions and seeking additional advice from industry professionals, you can ensure that your gown arrives safely and securely at your destination wedding location.

Choosing the right airline

When choosing the right airline for your wedding gown, it is important to remember that specific guidelines will vary among them. It is recommended to travel with your wedding gown as carry-on luggage, so you should research the carry-on luggage policies of different airlines. Some airlines may have additional closet space that can be used to store your gown, so it is worth calling ahead to check if your plane will have extra space.

If you are unable to secure a space for your gown in the closet, you will need to consider whether there will be enough room in the overhead lockers. To increase your chances of finding space, you could pay the early boarding fee, which will allow you to get ahead on the overhead bin space. Alternatively, you could consider purchasing a ticket for an extra seat, although this option is not always allowed and can be costly.

If you are able to book a premium economy, club, or business class ticket, you will benefit from a greater luggage allowance and more storage space. For example, if you fly from the UK to Italy with British Airways and choose to fly in the Club World section, you will have extra 'seat' space in the middle of a row, which can be used for your gown. Similarly, Delta offers larger 'coat closets' in the first-class cabin area that can be used for bridal gown storage.

United Airlines is also a good option for flying with your wedding dress, as it offers hanging closet space for no additional charge, and you don't need a seat reservation for any specific class to use this feature.

Using a carry-on bag

If you're travelling with your wedding gown on a plane, it's best to take it as carry-on luggage so that it doesn't leave your sight. Here are some tips for using a carry-on bag to transport your wedding gown:

Choosing the Right Carry-On Bag

Firstly, ensure that you have a suitable carry-on bag for your gown. You can keep your dress in the bag it came in or purchase a sturdy, waterproof garment bag. A trifold dress bag is a good option, as it will keep your gown relatively crease-free. If you're worried about creases, cover the dress with acid-free tissue paper before placing it in the bag.

Checking with the Airline

Different airlines have different policies and luggage allowances for carry-on items, so be sure to contact your airline ahead of time to determine their guidelines. Some airlines, like United Airlines, offer hanging closet space for no additional charge, which is ideal for wedding gowns.

Packing the Gown

When packing your gown, carefully roll or fold it to avoid deep creases. If your gown is bulky or delicate, you may need to carry the garment bag separately rather than placing it in a suitcase.

Early Boarding

Consider paying for early boarding to ensure you have enough overhead bin space for your gown. This will also give you time to ask the flight attendants about any available closet space.

In-Flight

If your gown doesn't fit in the overhead bin, ask the flight attendants if they can accommodate it in a closet. Some aircraft have larger 'coat closets' in the first-class cabin area that can be used for bridal gown storage. While closet space is not guaranteed, it's worth asking the crew for assistance.

Upon Landing

Use a hand steamer to release any wrinkles from your gown before the wedding.

Remember, it's your responsibility to get your wedding gown to the venue, so plan ahead and choose a carry-on option that will keep your gown safe and within your sight throughout the journey.

Hanging the dress on the plane

Hanging the wedding dress in the plane's closet is a great way to ensure it stays wrinkle-free during the flight. However, this option is not always available or guaranteed, even for those flying in the premium cabins. It is best to call ahead to check if your plane will have extra space, but you can also ask the flight attendants for help once onboard. If you are flying with an airline such as United Airlines, you can take advantage of their hanging closet space for no additional charge without having to call ahead or reserve a specific class.

If you are unable to secure closet space, you may consider purchasing an extra seat for your dress. However, this option is not allowed by all airlines, and you will need to check with your airline before booking a second ticket. Alternatively, you can hold the dress for the duration of the flight or carefully fold it into a carry-on suitcase and store it in the overhead bins. If you choose to fold the dress, be prepared for wrinkles, and bring a hand steamer to release them upon arrival at your destination.

To protect your dress during the flight and when storing it in the overhead bins, it is recommended to keep it in a sturdy garment bag that is waterproof and opaque. You can also cover the dress with colourless, acid-free tissue paper to prevent creases from forming. Additionally, consider paying the early boarding fee to ensure you have access to overhead bin space.

Budgeting for extra space

• Inquire about closet space: Some airlines, like Delta, have larger 'coat closets' in the first-class cabin area that can accommodate bridal gowns. Contact your airline ahead of time to check if your plane has such facilities. Even if they don't guarantee the space, it's worth asking the flight attendants for assistance once you're onboard.
• Consider flying premium economy or business class: Opting for a higher class ticket, like premium economy, club, or business class, can provide you with additional space to store your wedding gown. This option not only increases your luggage allowance, saving you money on extra suitcases, but also offers more storage room, making it ideal for transporting a delicate and bulky dress.
• Book an extra seat: If your budget allows, consider purchasing an additional seat for your wedding gown. While some airlines may have specific guidelines regarding this option, it can provide peace of mind, ensuring your dress remains with you throughout the flight.
• Pay the early boarding fee: If you're unable to secure a higher-class ticket or an extra seat, paying the early boarding fee can be a great alternative. This option gives you a head start on securing overhead bin space, making it easier to store your wedding gown.
• Choose an airline with accommodating policies: Opt for airlines that are known for their wedding dress transportation options, such as United Airlines, which offers hanging closet space for wedding gowns at no additional charge. This way, you can avoid the worry of cramming your dress into an overhead bin or paying for an extra seat.
• Prepare for wrinkles and bring a steamer: If you're unable to secure ample space for your wedding gown, it's essential to accept that wrinkles may occur. You can easily release wrinkles using a hand steamer at your destination, ensuring your dress looks flawless for the big day.

While budgeting for extra space is important, it's also crucial to properly pack your wedding gown. Consult with your dress designer, boutique, or seamstress for advice on the best way to package your dress without causing folds and creases. Additionally, consider using a sturdy garment bag or a box to protect your gown during transit and TSA screening.

Frequently asked questions