So, you're packing your bags for an adventure—maybe it’s a weekend rodeo or a cross-country road trip—but there’s one item you're not willing to leave behind: your trusty cowboy hat. We get it. A cowboy hat isn't just part of the outfit—it is the outfit. But how do you travel with one without ending up with a crumpled brim or squished crown?
Whether you're hopping on a plane, loading the truck, or tossing it in your RV, here's how to make sure your hat arrives looking sharp and ready to impress.
Can You Travel with a Cowboy Hat?
Absolutely! People do it all the time. But cowboy hats are delicate in their shape, especially felt or straw varieties. So, while it’s totally doable, how you pack and carry it makes all the difference.
Use a Hard Hat Carrier
This is the cowboy’s ultimate travel hack.
A hard-sided hat case protects your cowboy hat from getting crushed in luggage compartments or the back of a pickup. Most are shaped to hold your hat just right, and many come with handles for easy carry.
If you travel often, it’s worth every penny.
Don’t Have a Carrier? Use Clothes as Cushion
If you’re packing it in a suitcase, pack it upside down—yes, crown down, brim up—and surround it with soft clothes. This supports the crown and keeps the brim from flattening. Jeans, tees, and even socks work great.
Avoid placing anything heavy on top. Your hat wants to ride first class, remember?
Wear It On the Plane
Want to play it extra safe? Just wear it.
Airlines generally allow hats as personal items. Once aboard, you can kindly ask a flight attendant to place it in the overhead bin (top side up), or even lay it on your lap. Bonus: you’ll look like a total boss at the terminal.
Watch the Weather
Traveling through rain or snow? Moisture can warp felt hats and damage straw. Always carry a plastic bag or hat rain cover, just in case the skies open up while you’re on the move.
Clean and Brush After Travel
After the journey, give your hat a gentle cleaning. Brush off dust, wipe off any smudges, and reshape it if needed. This keeps it looking crisp and extends its life.
Final Thoughts
Your cowboy hat is a statement—and it deserves first-class treatment wherever you go. Whether you’re heading to a honky-tonk in Nashville or a cattle show in Amarillo, packing your hat the right way keeps you stylish and stress-free.
And if you're in the market for a new travel-ready cowboy hat, we’ve got plenty to choose from at The Boot Jack! From hard-case compatible shapes to high-quality felts and straws, your perfect travel partner is waiting.
FAQs
1. Can you carry a cowboy hat on a plane?
Yes! Most airlines allow it as a personal item. You can wear it or gently store it in the overhead bin.
2. What type of cowboy hat travels best?
Felt hats tend to be more durable for travel, but straw hats can travel just as well with the right care and packing.
3. Can I pack a cowboy hat in checked luggage?
It’s not recommended unless packed in a hard-sided hat carrier. Checked luggage can shift and crush hats.
4. How do I reshape my hat after travel?
Use a hat steamer or gentle steam from a kettle to loosen the fibers, then shape with your hands.
5. What’s the best cowboy hat brand for frequent travel?
Brands like Stetson, Resistol, and Milano offer durable, high-quality hats perfect for the road.
