How I Travel with Linen

As a fashion designer, one of the most common questions I receive is, “How do you travel with so much linen?” Linen is a summer staple of mine, but its tendency to wrinkle can make it a bit tricky to handle while traveling. Fortunately, with a bit of practical problem-solving and creative thinking, I’ve developed a packing system that keeps my linen pieces looking fresh and stylish. Here’s how you can travel with linen confidently—no steamer required!

Step 1: Prepare Your Linen

Before packing, make sure all your linen pieces are pressed or steamed. I like to do this a day or two in advance, allowing the fabric to cool down. Linen tends to crease more easily when it’s warm, so giving it time to cool helps prevent stubborn lines.

Step 2: Lay Out Your Items

On a clean surface, lay out your larger linen items flat. This makes it easier to manage and roll them without creating unnecessary creases.

Step 3: Stack and Roll

Group similar items together, such as wide-leg pants, skirts, dresses, jumpsuits, and tops. Align the top edges and gently roll each stack from waist to hem into a cylindrical shape. Place the most crease-prone items at the bottom of the stack to ensure they are less affected by the rolling process.

Step 4: Pack Efficiently

Place your rolled linen items in a zippered section of your suitcase or a large packing cube, arranging them side by side. Avoid overpacking to prevent unnecessary creases. Smaller rolls can be packed into additional cubes or secure spots in the suitcase.

Step 5: Unpack and Hang

Upon arrival, unpack and hang up as many items as possible. This allows the fabric to breathe and helps any minor wrinkles to relax. Even if you’re tempted to head out immediately, taking just ten minutes to unpack and hang your clothes can make a significant difference.

Step 6: Quick Touch-Ups

With this packing method, you’ll find that most items are ready to wear without additional steaming or ironing. However, if needed, a quick touch-up will keep everything looking pristine.

Pro Tip: If you don’t have space to hang every item, drape them over a chair, ottoman, or even your suitcase.

These tips will help you travel with linen effortlessly, keeping you stylish and comfortable throughout your journey.