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Destination weddings are more popular than ever. Whether you are headed for the beach, the mountains, or your hometown, you want to make sure that your gown arrives safely. With a little advance planning, you will be able to relax and enjoy the trip.
Wedding gowns are large! Fitting them into tight spaces is often a challenge. Bridal salons carefully pack bridal gowns into extra long garment bags with the train folded up (usually there is a bust form to hold the bodice of the gown in place). Although some brides like the idea of shipping their gown ahead to their destination, we definitely wouldn't recommend it. No amount of insurance will take the place of your gown if it does not arrive safely. Hand carry your bridal gown - it is too important to entrust to anyone else.
NEVER put your wedding gown in checked baggage!
Traveling by plane can be tricky with their endless restrictions on luggage, and they change all the time. The best thing to do is to check with your airline shortly before your trip for their specific requirements. The most important thing to know is that you should NEVER put your wedding gown in checked baggage! The risk is too high that it could arrive damaged, or heaven forbid, not at all. Then what would you do?
With any luck, the flight attendant might allow you to hang the garment bag in the first class closet (everyone has a soft spot for brides). But, even these closets are small. Gowns are also often layed flat on top of the bags in the overhead compartments. One bag that is growing in popularity among destination brides is the WALLYBAG.
Most brides find the 66 inch WallyBag is perfect for their dress and accessories, but larger and smaller bags are available based on how much dress you have. The bag folds 3 ways and is secured with side release buckles, fits easily in overhead compartments and accommodates various length garments for men and women. The WallyBag can be found on Amazon for about $100.
It is not only your wedding gown that you should make plans for - your accessories are also very important. Pack your shoes, veil, and other accessories into a carry-on bag. With all the limitations these days, you may have to ask your fiance or maid of honor to take your bag as one carry on item (remember, you also have the garment bag). . Be sure to keep your wedding jewelry in your purse. You should never let any jewelry out of your sight, but especially not your fabulous wedding jewelry!
