By: Heather Bien
You make your packing list, stuff your suitcase, run to the airport, and make your flight just in time. Everything is great—until you arrive and see your bras are completely crumpled. Uh-oh.
When it comes to packing bras, it takes a little more planning than most clothing. Bras are delicate yet structured garments, and they need help to preserve their quality.
And when you’re traveling, that help comes from careful packing methods.
With many different folding styles to choose from (whether it’s in a packing cube or suitcase), we have the ultimate guide on how to pack bras in a suitcase.
Packing Bras 101: Tips & Tricks
“Bras” is a large umbrella term, covering everything from flexible bralettes to molded push-ups to sportswear. But no matter the bra type, there’s a few packing tips that’ll help preserve its fabric and supportive powers.
Start with these basic tips for how to pack bras of all kinds:1
- Location – To prevent wrinkles and crushing, treat the bottom of your suitcase as a no-go zone. Preferably, you should place bras on top of all other items, in an interior pocket, or in an entirely different bag. However, if you can’t place them on top, suitcase corners are your best bet.
- Stacking – Whether packing sports bras or strapless cups, stacking your bras is key. This can help similar bras maintain their shape and reduce any wrinkling. If concerned about crushing between bras, a little stuffing (socks, underwear, or even newspaper) can prevent damage.
- Closed Clasps – No matter the bra type, you should always fasten its hooks when packing. Open clasps are a recipe for snags and potential tears. Better yet, tuck any straps
- Downsizing – To minimize bra damage, minimize your total bras. A general packing rule is taking one bra for every two to three days abroad. Factor in any exercise or active days for extra sports bras. And to really save space, go for a convertible bra with multiway straps.
- Separate Packing – The safest way to protect your bras? A separate packing bag! Hard-shell cases, packing vibes, and bra cases block any crumpling or bending. And for simple protection, a laundry mesh bra bag or even a plastic baggie can help.
- Immediate removal – Once you’ve arrived, don’t flop onto your bed. Immediately remove and unfold your bras. This can prevent or cut off any fabric damage before getting worse.
Packing Different Types of Bras
As any bra wearer knows, not all bras are created equal—and that applies to packing rules.
Between padded sports bras, molded strapless bras, and cloth-only bralettes, you have entirely different fabrics and designs. It only makes sense that each bra type will need different packing methods.2 Once you’ve narrowed down your necessary bra types, take these specific tips for packing each garment.
Molded Bras
Molded bras simply mean any structured cups made from one piece of fabric—i.e., not a thin or flexible piece of cloth. With their form, molded bras are more delicate and open to damage. To keep them intact, use these packing tips:
- Avoid Folding – For molded bras, the best folding method is none. Twisting, inverting, or folding the cups often damages their shape or leaves wrinkles. Stick with layering your molded bras unfolded.
- Save Space – Don’t leave your molded bras for the suitcase corners. A separate case or bag is preferable for structure protection. If that’s unavailable, make sure to leave enough space at the top of your suitcase.
- Padding or Stuffing – Consider padding in particular for your molded bras. That extra sock or crumpled paper can be the final barrier against damage.
Non-Molded Bras (Bralettes)
Any everyday bra that has flexible fabric cups (or non-molded cups) can be considered a bralette. For underwired varieties, stick with molded bra rules and pack unfolded with all hooks clasped. If underwire-free, fold the bralette like underwear or a small bamboo shirt. However, do not roll your cloth bralettes—it could ruin or stretch the fabric.
Sports Bras
Usually, sports bras are more durable than everyday bras—after all, they’re meant to withstand athletic activity. But your sports bras still need protection on the road. For all shapes and types, here are some sports bra packing tips:3
- Compression – Made only from fabric, a compression sports bra is simple to pack. Just fold the piece evenly like a small shirt and tuck in the straps. Then, stack with similar bras on the top of your suitcase or in a separate pocket.
- Encapsulation or Padded – For larger breasts or extra support, some sports bras have inbuilt cups or flexible molding. If the padded cups are unremovable, follow the rules of molded bras—layer evenly and unfolded. If the padded cups are removable, simply remove the pads and fold the sports bra like a piece of clothing.
Travel-Ready Bras with Boody
Whether embarking on a hiking excursion, beach vacation, or urban adventure, it’s possible to take your favorite bras with you. Try our bra packing tips, and bring the comfort of your home closet across the globe.
Seeking the ultimate versatile bra for travel? We have good news.
Boody’s sustainable bras make packing easy, with comfortable bra styles that support your body across all activities. Our underwire-free, full-coverage bras work for long walks, lounging, and city exploring—perfect for any vacation plans.
For more information on all things bamboo underwear and bras, visit our website today. We’re here to discuss any questions you might have including how to know if a bra fits, how to measure your bra size, or knowing if you should wear a bra to bed. Learn more today!
About the Author:
Heather Bien is a copywriter and writer based in Washington, DC. She works with retail, ecommerce, and creative brands on their website copy and digital presence, and her freelance writing has appeared on MyDomaine, Apartment Therapy, The Everygirl, and more. When she's not with laptop and coffee in hand, you'll find her planning her next weekend getaway, working on her budding green thumb, or scouting for her next great vintage find.
Sources:
- Leasca, S. This Is the Right Way to Pack Your Bras. https://www.realsimple.com/beauty-fashion/shoes-accessories/lingerie-hosiery/how-to-pack-bras
- Edwards, A. How to Pack Bras. https://www.wikihow.com/Pack-Bras
- Cresnhaw, A. How To Fold Sports Bras: Quick Hacks. https://www.lembrassa.com/how-to-fold-sports-bras
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