Packing for a trip is never easy; too much in your suitcase and you’ll struggle to get around, but too little and you may be forced to spend too much precious time washing lingerie and other essentials at the laundromat. There’s more to consider than how much you pack; your method of packing could determine whether your favorite lingerie survives your vacation or returns home misshapen. Organize lingerie like a pro — follow these five easy tips:
1. Choose Lingerie and Undergarments Strategically
The first step to a successful packing experience involves selecting the most important items. Think carefully about how you intend to spend your time abroad, and what types of lingerie will allow you to make the most of that experience. Do high-intensity activities such as biking or kayaking play a central role in your itinerary? Or do you plan to spend more time at Broadway shows or professional lectures? Will you be traveling alone, with girlfriends, or with a significant other? These and other factors could all play a significant role in your final lingerie packing list.
Consider your intended wardrobe. If most of your outfits are white or sheer, your favorite black undergarments might not be a good fit. Strapped versus strapless tops and dresses must also be taken into account. When in doubt, pack a convertible bra.
2. Take Advantage of Zippered Lids and Mesh Compartments
Ideally, your suitcase will have multiple compartments where you can store your lingerie, as opposed to intermingling it with the rest of your clothing. Merely shoving your undergarments in the top compartment isn’t good enough, however. Careful folding will keep them protected and maximize what little space you have.
If you plan on traveling with a single carry-on bag, opt for one with a mesh storage area. This will allow you to keep your intimates separate from the rest of your clothing without giving up precious storage space. Roll up a few pairs of socks and store them in the cups of your molded bra; not only will this save space, it maintains your bra’s shape.
3. Pack Laundry Essentials
Depending on how many bras you pack and how long you intent to spend abroad, you may eventually need to visit a laundromat or make use of an in-unit washing machine. When this inevitably occurs, you’ll want to place your favorite items in mesh bags. Bring multiples, as overcrowding is a recipe for destroyed lingerie. To save space, pack mesh bags with nylons, socks, or other easily-lost essentials.
If you don’t anticipate having access to laundry facilities, bring travel-sized soap or specialized lingerie wash. This is the perfect solution if you’re traveling with a single backpack and can’t spare the space for more than two bras. Wear one bra and wash the other in the sink. Hang it on the balcony, a drying rack, or a hanger while you’re out and about. You’ll return to fresh lingerie — a huge luxury when you’re on the go!
Related: Travel Essential: 6 Key Lingerie Items To Take With You
4. Invest in Lingerie Protection Products
A variety of ingenious devices promote better lingerie care on the road. Some packing products make better use of cramped space than others, so you’ll have to think carefully about what’s more important: maximizing what little space you enjoy, or keeping your bra in pristine condition? If your goal is to keep your bras intact while enjoying a little extra space, opt for a bra cup, in which you place you bras on top of one another and then fold them into a compact shape. Not willing to fold your bras? Larger packing products allow them to lie flat. These are useful, but bulky, so only pack them if you’re willing to supplement your carry-on with one or two additional bags.
5. Stack Bras and Stuff Cups
Can’t spare the space for protective products? Try this simple space-saving tip: save bras and other intimates for last, and stack them carefully on the top layer of your suitcase. Molded cups can quickly lose their shape when crammed into suitcases, so stuff socks or other small items in the cups to prevent them from caving inward. To save even more space, fold the stacked and stuff bras in half.
A little advance planning can keep you looking and smelling your best while you’re abroad, while also preventing undergarment damage. Pack carefully, and you’ll enjoy years of use from your favorite lingerie.
Related: 7 Holiday Packing Tips To Make Travel Easier
We Highly Recommend
Whether you’re shopping for new everyday bras or lingerie for a special occasion, it’s always a good idea to seek out a second opinion. We know how hard it is to find bras that fit well and feel good, especially when you’re doing it on your own. If you’ve ever felt unsure about your bra size or you just don’t know where to go to find good bras, it’s time to let a bra fitterhelp.
Many specialty lingerie boutiques offer bra fittings. Their expert bra fitters will take the pain and frustration out of bra shopping and do all the work for you. Even better, their product knowledge can save you time and money. Plus, they know where all of the best bras are hiding.
If you’ve struggled with finding bras in the right size, it’s time to make a change. Visit our specialty store locator to find a store near you and schedule an appointment.
Happy bra shopping!
{Editor’s Note: This post is not sponsored by or affiliated with any of the brands or businesses mentioned in this post.}