Traveling with hats can feel overwhelming. One wrong move, and your beautiful brim may arrive crushed, creased, or misshapen. But with the right techniques, your hats can travel just as well as you do—elegantly and effortlessly. Whether you're jetting off to a tropical getaway or heading to a destination wedding, here are our favorite Hat Packing Hacks.
1. Wear It, Don’t Pack It
The simplest—and often safest—way to travel with your hat is to wear it. Most high-end hats are designed to be as comfortable as they are beautiful.
Delicate styles, such as structured straws or hand-blocked felts, Like the Diablo or the Leopard Coachman are best worn onboard and then gently stowed under the seat or in the overhead bin, placed on top of other luggage—not underneath. This keeps them safe from pressure and bending.
Pro Tip: Plan your outfit around your hat. A well-styled travel look featuring your favorite brim makes arriving even more glamorous.
2. Pack Foldable Braids and Straws Upside Down in Your Suitcase
If you're packing a foldable braided hat like the Vagabond or the Analea in checked or carry-on luggage, place it upside down in the center of your suitcase with the crown resting in a bed of soft clothes. Arrange garments around the crown and underneath the brim, then stuff the crown with smaller items like socks or rolled tanks to support its shape.
This works beautifully for flexible straw braid styles which are designed to hold up under gentle pressure.
3. Fold and Pack Travel Straw Styles in Your Carry-On
If you choose one of our Shantung styles like the Antoni, you can gently place it in your carry on, don't fold the crown just turn the brim up, the leather piping will help the brim keep its shape. This is ideal for more flexible materials like our shantung straw styles that also include the Luella and Jill which provide excellent sun protection. They will maintain their shape if treated with care
Pro Tip: Keep the plastic bag the hat comes in and place the hat in the bag and then into your carry on in case of unexpected weather and to keep your hat free from dirt.
4. Use a Hat Clip for Hands-Free Travel
A magnetic hat clip is one of the most elegant solutions for hands-free travel. It securely attaches your hat to your tote, backpack, or carry-on, keeping your hands free and your hat protected. This is perfect for semi-structured hats that don’t fold but can handle some movement.
5. Opt for Travel-Friendly Styles
For frequent flyers or spontaneous getaways, it’s smart to invest in packable hats crafted from flexible materials like raffia braid, soft felt, or cotton canvas. These are designed to be packed, folded, or clipped—without compromising their shape or style. Our Dandy and the Big Ass Travel Hat are two statement making styles that are perfect for travel
6. Steam It Gently Upon Arrival
Even perfectly packed hats may need a refresh after the journey. Use a handheld steamer or hang the hat near a hot shower to soften any minor creases. Gently reshape using your hands and allow it to air dry naturally.
Avoid direct water or high heat—gentle steam and soft handling are best.
7. Use a Hat Box for Maximum Protection
For highly structured, luxury, or sentimental hats, a dedicated hat box is your best travel companion. This is especially true if you are traveling with a hat for a Horse Racing Event or to a special occasion. Fascinators like the Aster Pleated Fascinator require a small hat box as do any of our more delicate top hats like the Persephone. This also includes our Panama styles like the Royal. While Panama Straw is considered the gold standard of warm weather hats they can be delicate, so use a hat box and handle them by the brim. No Pinching that crown. The hat box offers the ultimate protection, especially during long-haul flights or if you’re packing more than one hat.
Some boxes are stylish enough to carry as your personal item. We like the calpak travel hat boxes, they are stylish and affordable.
Final Thoughts
A well packed hat is a luxury that pays off in confidence and compliments. With a little preparation and care, your favorite styles can accompany you from departure to destination—crease-free and fabulous. Whether you wear it, fold it, clip it, or box it, these packing hacks ensure your hat travels first class.
Safe travels, and don’t forget to tag us in your adventures. We love seeing where your hat takes you.
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