Photos by Taylor Brown Photography

Traveling with Your Wedding Dress?

If you’re planning a destination elopement or micro wedding, you might be wondering about traveling with your wedding dress

The good news? With a little prep and the right tools, your dress can travel just as well as you do. Whether you’re flying, driving, or wondering if shipping is safe, here are my best tips to keep your gown safe, smooth, and ready for the aisle!

Can You Fly with Your Wedding Dress?

Yes, and you absolutely should!

If you’re flying, I highly recommend carrying your dress onto the plane with you. Most airlines allow one carry-on item and one personal item, so your dress can be your carry-on.

Pro tip: Call the airline ahead of time to ask if they can hang your dress in a closet near the front of the plane. If they can’t, gently fold it into an overhead bin—ideally in a breathable garment bag (more on that below).

Should You Ship Your Wedding Dress?

Personally? I don’t recommend it unless it’s absolutely necessary. Even with the best shipping carriers, there’s always a risk of delays, loss, or damage—and that’s stress no bride needs right before her wedding.

If you do have to ship it:

• Use a trusted and insured shipping service

• Require a signature on delivery

• Ship it to a location where someone will be available to receive it (like a hotel concierge or family member)

Want some specific shipping tips? Check out this in-depth article on Brides.com!

Photos by Apt. B Photography

How to Pack Your Dress for Travel

Whether you’re flying or driving, here’s how to pack your gown with care:

1. Use a high-quality, breathable garment bag (avoid plastic if you possible!)

2. Stuff the bodice and sleeves with acid-free tissue paper to maintain shape

3. Fold carefully—lay the dress flat, fold the train under, and gently fold the skirt to fit the bag

4. Hang it as soon as you arrive to let any wrinkles start to fall out naturally

How to Steam Your Dress Safely

Once you’ve arrived, you’ll likely need to steam out any wrinkles—and steaming is much safer than ironing (please don’t iron your wedding dress!).

Here’s how to do it like a pro:

• Steam your dress the night before the wedding so you’re not rushing on the big day

• Wrap the head of the steamer in a clean white pillowcase or towel to avoid water spots or accidental snags

• Always test a small area first

• Have someone assist you if possible—it’s easier to steam while the dress is hanging

Don’t have a steamer? Many hotels provide them upon request, or you can bring a compact travel steamer in your suitcase.

Bonus Tips

• Don’t forget a garment bag for your partner’s outfit too—especially suits or anything prone to wrinkles

• If you’re driving, lay the dress flat in the backseat or hang it from the garment hook if it fits

Photos by Taylor Brown Photography

Final Thoughts

If you’re eloping, you’ve already chosen a wedding day that’s simple, joyful, and meaningful—and your dress deserves to arrive looking just as stunning as you do. With these tips, you can keep it safe, smooth, and photo-ready from suitcase to celebration.

Let’s Create Your Perfect Day in Savannah

Planning a destination elopement? Learn more about the Savannah Elopement Package here!

Additional Resources:

• How to Elope in Savannah: The Ultimate Guide

• Wedding Vendor Tipping Guide: Who To Tip + How Much

• Elopements vs Micro Weddings: Which is Right For You?

Photo by Apt. B Photography