Sandbar Blog: By Sun 'N' Sand®

Sun, Safety & Style: Your Guide to UPF 50+ Protection

The Traveler’s Dilemma

There is nothing quite like arriving at a world-class resort only to find your favorite wide-brim hat crushed at the bottom of your suitcase. At Sun 'N' Sand® Accessories, we design our headwear for the adventurer. While many of our styles are "packable," a little technique goes a long way in preserving that "just-bought" look.

7 Pro-Packing Tips

1. The "Crown Stuffing" Method: Fill the crown of your hat with soft items like socks, scarves, or rolled-up swimwear. This creates a solid core that prevents the crown from collapsing.

2. Upside Down is Right Side Up: Place your hat upside down in the center of your suitcase after you’ve laid down a base layer of clothes.

3. The Surround Sound: Pack your heavier items (shoes, toiletry bags) around the edges of the suitcase. Use softer garments to build a "nest" around the brim of the hat.

4. Flat and Fast: For flat-brimmed styles, ensure no heavy items are pressing down on one side of the brim, which can cause a permanent "wave" in the straw.

5. Tote Synergy: If you are bringing one of our Bags & Totes, use the tote as your "protective shell" inside the suitcase.

6. The Steam Trick: If your hat does arrive with a small crease, use the hotel's garment steamer (or the steam from a hot shower) to relax the fibers and reshape the brim by hand.

7. Wear It: When in doubt, make your Sun 'N' Sand® hat your "airport style" statement. It’s the only 100% guarantee against suitcase squishing!