Raise your hand if you want to deal with hair care while traveling? No one? Ok, in that case, we are going to break it down in plain terms how to take care of your hair without wasting time, spending too much money or carrying around too many products and accessories. This article is admittedly more geared towards our female readers, but guys can benefit, too.
Research the climate of your destination
Knowing the climate of your destination is half the hair care battle. If you are going somewhere that is hot and humid, you will want to bring a hair care product that helps cut down on frizziness and curling (read this article from Smithsonian Magazine to see why humidity has this effect). If you are going to a drier destination, you won’t need to worry about frizzy hair, but you may want to bring along a shampoo and/or conditioner that moisturizes.
Keep it simple
If you have a complicated hair care routine at home, look for ways that you can simplify it. This may involve using products that can do more than one thing at once. For example, a combination shampoo and conditioner can simplify both your packing and your hair care routine (note: while 2-in-1 shampoo/conditioners are not miracle workers, they can carry the weight during your travels, unless of course, you are traveling for significant periods of time).
Another hair care product that can serve multiple functions? Tea tree oil. Tea tree oil in the right concentrations can help promote healthy hair growth while limiting dandruff and a dry scalp. Hint: search for tea tree oil hair care products which come in pre-formulated concentrations that will be beneficial for your scalp.
Finally, leave the hair dryer at home. Learn to appreciate the virtues of air drying, take advantage of hotel amenities or ask to borrow a hair dryer from a fellow guest.
Wash your hair without water
What? Yes. There is such a thing as a “dry shampoo,” and it can get the job done in a pinch. It is especially useful on those marathon travel days, which can quickly stretch from 24 hours to 48 and sometimes, much longer. Have a look at some dry shampoos on Amazon here.
Use small containers
Keep in mind that the TSA won’t let you travel with more than 3 ounces of a liquid product in a single container. If you are a carry-on-only traveler like us, you can divide up your shampoo and other hair care products into 3 oz. bottles and pack them in a single ziploc bag. Problem solved.
Pack accessories
Anything from a claw clip to a barrette can help keep your hair in line while traveling. A bandana can come in handy as well. Remember, traveling allows you to relax certain beauty routines. No one expects you to be done up when you go on that rainforest canopy walk. Take advantage of the low expectations.
If you have natural hair, we recommend reading this article. If you have any of your own hair care tips for travel, please share them in the comments below. Also, free free to shout out any relevant products that should be on our radar.
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