What Should I Do With My Natural Hair on Vacation?

By Robert Palmer

Going on vacation is always exciting, but figuring out what to do with your natural hair can be a bit of a challenge. Whether you’re going to the beach, exploring a new city, or simply relaxing at a resort, there are several things you can do to keep your hair healthy and stylish while on vacation.

1. Protective Styles

One of the best ways to keep your natural hair protected while on vacation is by wearing a protective style. This can include braids, twists, cornrows, or even wigs. Protective styles not only help to keep your hair healthy by reducing manipulation and breakage but also save time on styling during your trip.

Tips for Choosing the Right Protective Style:

  • Choose a style that will last for the duration of your trip
  • Ensure that the style doesn’t put too much tension on your scalp and edges
  • Make sure that it’s easy to maintain and won’t interfere with any activities you have planned

2. Head Wraps and Scarves

Head wraps and scarves are not only practical but also fashionable when it comes to protecting your hair on vacation. They come in various colors, patterns, and sizes that can add flare to any outfit. Head wraps and scarves are versatile; you can wear them as headbands or wrap them around your entire head.

Tips for Choosing the Right Head Wrap or Scarf:

  • Pick a fabric that won’t cause friction or tangling with your hair
  • Choose a size that will fit comfortably over your head without being too tight or too loose
  • Select colors and patterns that complement the rest of your wardrobe items.

3. Moisturize and Seal

Vacation often means exposure to sun, saltwater, and chlorine which can strip your hair of its natural moisture. Therefore it’s important to moisturize and seal your hair regularly to prevent dryness and damage. You can use a leave-in conditioner followed by a natural oil like coconut oil or jojoba oil to seal in the moisture.

Tips for Moisturizing and Sealing:

  • Carry travel-sized bottles of your favorite moisturizer, conditioner, and oil
  • Apply the products on damp hair after washing or swimming in the pool or ocean
  • Use a satin scarf or bonnet while sleeping to prevent friction from cotton sheets that could cause breakage.

4. Embrace Your Natural Hair

Lastly, embrace your natural hair on vacation! Whether you decide to wear it out in all its glory, style it with accessories like beads and clips, or experiment with new hairstyles, make sure you have fun with it! Use this time to explore new looks that you may not have tried before.

Tips for Embracing Your Natural Hair:

  • Experiment with different products like gels, creams, or mousses for wash-and-go styles
  • Incorporate accessories like headbands, scarves, clips, or beads into your hairstyles
  • Take advantage of the humidity if you’re traveling somewhere tropical- it can help define curls and coils.

In conclusion, there are several ways you can manage your natural hair while on vacation. Whether it’s through protective styles, head wraps and scarves, moisturizing and sealing regularly or embracing your natural texture through experimentation, the key is to find what works best for you and your hair. So go out and enjoy your vacation without worrying about your hair!