What Do I Do With My Suit If I'm Traveling to an Interview?
Business attire is typically an essential when heading to a job interview, and usually that means wearing a suit. That's no problem if you've only got a short way to travel, but if your potential employer is based out of town, you can't wear your suit all the way there. You'll need to pack it suitably to avoid embarrassing creases and crinkles. It's also useful to know when it's acceptable to simply wear your suit to the interview. Does this Spark an idea?
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When Not to Wear
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In general, it's advisable to wear the suit if you can get away with it, since this will avoid the risk of getting it creased in storage. You can get away with wearing your suit en route to the interview if your travel to your destination is brief and unlikely to result in suit damage. If your interview is at the end of a working day and you've worn the suit all day, it's worth bringing a second suit to change into.
If your travel is going to take some time or the actual interview is the next day, pack the suit instead. However, before wearing casual attire, check to make sure no one from your prospective employer's office is going to meet you on your arrival, as this may require more formal clothing.
Carry-On Bag
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If you're using a carry-on bag, there are a few tactics you can use to avoid the worst suit creases. Place the suit jacket on a hanger and tuck one side into the other. Then pull the sleeves across each other so they are folded into a V-shape in front of the jacket. Ensure this is done tightly to prevent bunching of material. The bottom part of the suit – either skirt or pants – can be draped over the hangar. Place plastic wrapping over the suit and put it front-down into the carry-on bag, folding until it fits comfortably.
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Suitcase
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If you're traveling with a regular suitcase, you'll want to begin packing by turning the suit jacket inside out. Then fold it in on itself twice, dividing it into quarters. The suit can then be placed on the bottom of the suitcase, while you lay other items above it.
Garment Bag
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If you can use a garment bag, this may help prevent creases. However, such a bag may be prohibited on some flights because of baggage restrictions. Placing a suit in a garment bag and carrying it by folding the suit over an arm is likely to reduce the chance of wrinkles.
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References
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