Packing hats well is one of those small travel skills that saves you from crushed brims and sad shapes. The right method depends on the hat, but a few principles make everything easier.
Felt, Wool, Straw:
These are the hats that must keep their shape.
Method: Fill the crown
- Stuff the crown firmly with soft items like socks, scarves, or T‑shirts.
- The goal is to make the crown solid so it can’t collapse.
Method: Nestle it in your suitcase
- Lay the hat crown‑down in the suitcase.
- Surround the brim with rolled clothing to support it evenly.
- Place lighter items on top—nothing heavy that could warp the brim.
Extra notes for straw hats
- They’re more fragile, so avoid overpacking around them.
- If the brim is very stiff, consider carrying it on instead of checking it.
Packing soft caps (baseball caps, beanies, bucket hats):
These are much easier.
- Stack caps inside each other to save space.
- Fill the front panel of a baseball cap with a sock to keep the shape.
- Beanies and bucket hats can be folded or rolled without harm.
If you’re traveling with multiple hats:
- Use a hat clip on your bag for one hat that you want quick access to.
- For the rest, pack the sturdiest hat first and nest softer hats inside it.
✈Carry‑on vs. checked luggage
- Structured hats do best in carry‑on.
- If you must check them, use a hat box or pack them in the center of your suitcase with plenty of padding.