Keep your hair healthy and gorgeous — no matter where your journey takes you
Jet-setting takes you over mountains and across shores, exposing you to new worlds. Sun-drenched beaches, bustling cities, tranquil mountains… It’s the stuff of dreams, really. But while your passport gets stamped, your hair might be waving a white flag of distress. From changes in climate to unfamiliar water quality and limited access to your usual haircare products, travel can wreak havoc on your hair’s health and appearance. We’ve rounded up must-have travel tips and tools for your next adventure.
Go compact
Prepare to leave your usual 10-step routine at home – when suitcase space is tight, your haircare routine needs to be compact but effective. Opt for travel-sized products that do double (or triple) duty.
Multi-tasking products like leave-in conditioner with added UV protection can hydrate, detangle and shield your strands from sun damage. You may want to consider solid shampoo and conditioner bars to save space and avoid airport liquid restrictions.
Heated styling tools can also be too bulky to pack in — and you really should not be using them daily during your travels (less heat damage). Give your hair a break by leaving it to dry naturally, and apply a leave-in conditioner or a curl mist to enhance your natural texture. For curly or wavy hair, gently scrunch in product and let your hair dry in a loose braid or bun for added definition.
If it’s a beach vacay you’re planning, pack a reliable detangling brush and comb that can withstand the squeeze of your carry-on bag. A wide-toothed comb is great for gently managing wet hair, especially if days outdoors and in the water will make up most of your itinerary.
Know the climate you’re in
Hair reacts differently to humidity, dryness and how elevated you are. In humid and rainy destinations, anti-frizz serums or sprays will help keep flyaways under control. In dry or icy-cold climates, hydrating products like argan oil or a deep-conditioning mask (used weekly) will be your hair’s saviour.
Not all accommodations are created equal, so it’s possible that the pillowcase waiting for you isn’t made of silk or satin — just in case, pack in a satin scarf or bonnet to wrap your hair in at night and protect it from friction and potential breakage. You can also rock that satin scarf during the day for a chic, protective style.
Refresh on the fly
Between long travel days and new environments, your hair might need a pick-me-up. Keep a curl mist or refresh spray on hand to revive curls and waves. A travel-size dry shampoo can help manage excess oil and add volume if washing isn’t an option.
Remember, hydration is key, wherever you may be — inside and out. Your hair reflects your overall health, and travel often throws off the body’s hydration levels. So, make sure you drink plenty of water (especially on flights), and use a moisturising hair mist or hydrating oil daily to replenish lost moisture from your adventures in the sun, sea or around city pollution.
Your hair deserves as much thought as your outfits when you’re packing. By curating a mini toolkit of essentials — hydration heroes, protective styles and multi-use products —you can maintain healthy, beautiful tresses wherever your time off takes you.
Pro packing
Skip the stress — and the suitcase Tetris! Use these smart packing tips to fit in all your essentials:
- Roll your clothes to maximise space (hello, extra room for your favourite hair products!).
- Organise using a quality toiletry bag to avoid spills leaking into your luggage.
- Ziplock bags are perfect for potentially leaky bottles (air pressure during flights wreaks havoc on lids), tech cables, jewellery or even snacks for the journey.
- Bringing heat tools? Check voltage compatibility and pack an adapter to avoid surprises.
- Leave space for purchases made on your getaway. Try not to pack your bag to the brim on day one!
Top 10 travel must-haves
- Colours Limited Leave-In Anti-Frizz Serum R89.95, Jet
- Foschini All Woman Capsule Travel Bottle (set of 4) R169
- Sol de Janeiro Brazilian Glossy Nourishing Hair Oil R815, Foschini
- The Perfect Hair Grow on the Go! Edge Tamer R69.95, Foschini
- Foschini All Woman Satin Bonnet R139
- Sol de Janeiro Brazilian Joia Milky Leave-In Conditioner R635, Foschini
- Colours Limited Argan Hair Mask & Cap R69.95, Jet
- Argan Deluxe 10-in-One Intensive Hair Treatment Spray R169, Foschini
- Foschini All Woman Wide-Toothed Comb R39
- Foschini All Woman Detangling Hair Brush R99
Prices were correct at time of publishing
By: Charndré Emma Kippie
Photography by: Gallo/Getty images, Pexels, Supplied
Text courtesy of Club magazine
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