Packing Jorts for Travel: Tips for Wrinkle-Free Adventures

Jorts are ideal travel companions. They're durable enough to handle adventures, versatile enough to work in most casual situations, and comfortable for long days of exploring. The challenge lies in keeping them looking fresh despite the rigours of suitcase life. With the right packing techniques and planning, your denim shorts can emerge from your luggage ready to wear without needing an iron or steamer.

Why Jorts Are Perfect for Travel

Before diving into packing strategies, consider what makes denim shorts excellent travel items:

• Durability: Denim withstands the rough handling of travel better than more delicate fabrics
• Versatility: One pair can work for sightseeing, beach days, and casual dinners
• Minimal care needs: Unlike linen or silk, denim doesn't wrinkle easily and doesn't require frequent washing
• Quick drying: If you do need to wash them, denim dries relatively quickly
• Works with everything: Jorts pair with most casual tops you'll pack

The key is selecting the right pairs to bring and packing them in ways that preserve their appearance.

Choosing Travel-Friendly Jorts

Fabric Considerations

Some denim travels better than others:

• Stretch denim: Recovers well from compression and resists creasing. The best choice for suitcase travel.
• Midweight (10-12 oz): Heavy enough to resist wrinkling but not so substantial that it takes up excessive space.
• Pre-washed: Already softened and less prone to sharp creases than raw denim.
• Darker washes: Hide minor stains and dust better than light washes—practical for multi-day wear.

Style Selection

Think about your trip activities when choosing which pairs to pack:

• One versatile pair: A classic mid-wash in a flattering cut that works day or night
• One casual pair: Lighter wash or distressed for beach days and relaxed outings
• Skip: Raw denim (creases badly), white denim (shows every mark), heavily distressed pairs (fraying can worsen)

Packing Methods

The Roll Method

Rolling is generally the best technique for packing jorts:

1. Lay jorts flat with the button closed and zipper up
2. Fold in half lengthwise, one leg on top of the other
3. Starting from the waistband, roll tightly down to the hem
4. Tuck any loose bits into the roll

Rolling creates a compact cylinder that takes up minimal space and prevents the sharp creases that come from traditional folding. Place rolled jorts in the middle of your suitcase, buffered by softer items.

The Bundle Method

For minimising wrinkles on nicer pairs:

1. Lay jorts completely flat on top of your other clothes
2. Smooth out any wrinkles in the fabric
3. Layer other soft items (t-shirts, underwear) on top
4. Wrap the entire bundle in the jorts, using them as an outer layer

This method keeps jorts nearly flat, with soft items preventing creasing. It works best with structured suitcases that don't get compressed.

The Folder Method

If you prefer traditional folding:

1. Fold jorts in half lengthwise
2. Fold in half again, bringing hem to waistband
3. Place in the suitcase with the folded edge facing out
4. Stack heavier items around the edges, keeping weight off the centre

This creates one crease across the thighs. Position the fold where natural wear creases might occur anyway.

Suitcase Placement

Where you position jorts in your luggage matters:

• Avoid the bottom: Heavy items above can compress and crease denim
• Middle is ideal: Cushioned on all sides by softer items
• Don't overstuff: Compression creates creases; leave a little room for clothes to breathe
• Separate from toiletries: Leaked sunscreen or shampoo is harder to remove from denim than many other fabrics

Dealing with Creases

Despite best efforts, some creasing may occur. Here's how to handle it:

The Bathroom Steam Trick

Hang your jorts in the bathroom while you take a hot shower. The steam relaxes denim fibres and allows creases to fall out naturally. Leave them hanging until they're completely dry.

The Damp Towel Method

1. Lay jorts flat on a bed or clean surface
2. Place a damp (not wet) towel over the creased areas
3. Press firmly with your hands for 30 seconds
4. Remove the towel and smooth the fabric
5. Let air dry completely before wearing

Travel Steamer

If you travel frequently, a compact travel steamer is worth the investment. A few passes over creased denim restores it quickly. Many hotels also offer steamers or irons on request.

Wear Them Out

Body heat and movement release many creases naturally. If your jorts are only mildly creased, simply wearing them for an hour or two often solves the problem.

Multi-Day Wear Strategies

Jorts don't need washing after every wear, especially while travelling. To keep them fresh for longer:

• Air them out: Hang jorts near an open window or on a balcony overnight
• Spot clean: Address small stains immediately with a damp cloth rather than doing a full wash
• Rotate pairs: Alternating between two pairs gives each time to air out
• Keep them dry: Damp denim develops odours faster than dry denim

Washing on the Road

If you do need to wash your jorts while travelling:

Sink Wash Method

1. Fill a clean sink with cool water and a small amount of detergent
2. Submerge jorts and agitate gently with your hands
3. Focus on any stained areas
4. Drain and rinse thoroughly with clean water
5. Press out excess water (don't wring)
6. Roll in a clean towel and press to remove more moisture
7. Hang to dry in a well-ventilated area

Drying Tips

• Hang waistband-up on a clothesline or hanger
• Position near a fan or air conditioning vent if available
• Turn inside out for faster drying
• Allow at least 24 hours for complete drying in humid climates

Carry-On Considerations

When flying with only carry-on luggage:

• Wear your heavier pair: Saves space and weight in your bag
• Pack lighter jorts in the bag: One pair is usually sufficient for carry-on trips
• Consider wearing jorts on the plane: Comfortable for travel and eliminates packing them entirely

Climate-Specific Tips

Hot and Humid Destinations

Pack lightweight denim (under 10 oz) and expect more frequent need for freshening. Cotton-linen blends dry faster and breathe better in high humidity.

Tropical Beach Holidays

Light wash jorts hide sand better than dark washes. Choose pairs you don't mind getting a bit salty. Rinse in fresh water after beach days to prevent salt stiffness.

City Breaks

Darker, cleaner jorts work better for urban exploring, transitioning easily from day sightseeing to evening dining.

With thoughtful selection and proper packing, your jorts will serve you well throughout your travels, requiring minimal maintenance while providing maximum versatility. Master these techniques once and you'll never worry about crushed denim shorts again.