How to Pack Your Topped Hat for Travel

One of the most common questions we get at Topped Hats — especially during summer — is: “How do I pack my hat when I travel?” We hear you. A custom hat is an investment, and the last thing you want is to pull a crushed, misshapen hat out of your luggage when you arrive at your destination.

So we made a video to show you exactly how we do it.

Watch: How to Pack Your Hat for a Trip

In this video, we walk you through our tried-and-true method for packing your hat safely — whether you’re checking a bag, carrying on, or road tripping across Texas.

▶ Watch the Packing Video Here

The Styles We Get Asked About Most

These are the hats our customers ask about packing the most — click to shop any of them:

• Monte Carlo – Black — a structured felt style that travels beautifully with the right technique
• Monte Carlo – White — same great silhouette in a crisp, light colorway
• Exuma Toast — a warm-toned straw style perfect for warm-weather getaways
• Straw Bucket Hats — lightweight and packable, but still worth protecting on the road

A Few Tips to Keep in Mind

Fill the crown. Stuff the inside of your hat’s crown with soft items — socks, scarves, or a t-shirt work great. This helps the hat hold its shape and prevents the crown from collapsing under pressure.

Place it brim-up whenever possible. If you’re packing in a bag, set the hat brim-side up so the brim doesn’t get bent or warped. Never stack heavy items on top of it.

Use a hat box for longer trips. If you’re traveling with your hat frequently, a dedicated travel hat box is worth the investment. It protects your hat from being crushed and keeps it dust-free.

Carry it on if you can. For felt hats especially, we always recommend carrying your hat on the plane rather than checking it. Overhead bins work well — just place it brim-up and don’t let anyone stack bags on top of it.

Let it breathe when you arrive. If your hat got a little compressed in transit, let it air out and gently reshape it with your hands. Steam from a kettle or a handheld steamer can help ease out any dents.

Have More Questions?

Every hat is a little different, and we’re always happy to give personalized packing advice for your specific style. Reach out to us or stop by the hat bar — we love talking hats.

Happy travels, and may your hat arrive as perfectly as it left. 🤠