Even though summer has left us we, still have the option to escape to somewhere hot and exotic! That said, we all know how stressful travel with natural hair can be. There’s so many things to think about and coordinate… Will they let me through with all this product? How do I stop said products from spilling everywhere? What styles should I do? How will my hair hold up with the sun, sea, chlorine, salt, humidity etc? So I’m here to give you some tried and tested advice that will make your winter getaway a breeze.
FLY WITH A PROTECTIVE STYLE
Try protective styling for the vacation or, at least, for the flight – the best and most convenient way to travel with natural hair is simply to use a protective style. Whether it’s cornrows, box braids, a weave etc, it’ll save you a lot of time and effort.
For example, last Christmas, I went to Argentina with my family and for the 14 hour flight (YES 14 HOURS), I had my cousin do 4 cornrows on me just for the flight. That plane air is extremely drying for your hair (and for your skin) so it’s important to keep it moisturised and out of the way! No one wants to arrive on holiday with a bird’s nest.
PACK MULTI-USE PRODUCTS
Try to pack ‘multitasking’ products – by this, I mean try to pack products that you can use for more than one thing. That way you don’t fill up half your suitcase with hair products. For example, I use shea butter and jojoba oil on my skin, so instead of packing separate sealants for my hair, I just take those.
Decant products into smaller bottles and tubs – you can buy cheap small spray bottles, bottles and tubs from most beauty supply stores. Simply pour some of your essential products into smaller bottles to create more space.
Think about carrying a satin scarf or satin lined beanie for the plane. For long flights, it’s good to protect your hair but I definitely do not advocate walking around the plane with your leopard print satin bonnet! Get a satin-lined beanie or a cute scarf and tie it around your hair or behind your head when leaning back. I also pack my satin pillowcase when I go on holiday as most holiday destinations don’t have them.
KEEP PRODUCTS SEALED
Take measures to stop products spilling. There is nothing more annoying than getting to your holiday destination (or home) and finding that your leave-in has spilled over your favorite dress. Not only have you lost half your leave-in but your clothes/shoes have probably been stained or ruined.
To prevent this, I either use sticky tape to tape down the lids of my products or I wrap each product individually in cling film or a plastic bag. Ziplock bags are also great for keeping your bikinis and jewelry protected too.
KEEP STYLING SIMPLE & FAMILIAR
Don’t try any fancy new products or styles just before your holiday – your once-in-a-lifetime trip to New Zealand is probably not the best time to try that DIY roller set with those brand new products. When going on holiday, stick to what you know!
There we have it people. A few tips to help you get through your holiday without damaging your hair. Enjoy your vacation – you earned it! *sips mojito by the pool*
SHOP THE PRODUCTS
