TRAVEL TIPS: TAKING YOUR HAIR EXTENSIONS ON THE ROAD

Traveling is an exciting adventure, but it can pose some unique challenges for those who wear hair extensions. Whether you’re jet-setting to an exotic destination, embarking on a weekend getaway, or heading out for a business trip, maintaining your hair extensions while on the road is essential for keeping them looking their best. At Viola Hair Extensions, we understand the importance of looking fabulous no matter where you are. Here’s our comprehensive guide to traveling with and caring for your extensions while away from home.

1. Preparation Before Your Trip

    •    Choose the Right Extensions for Travel
When planning your trip, consider the type of extensions you’re wearing. Clip-in extensions are versatile and easy to remove, making them a great option for travel. Tape-in and sew-in extensions can also be manageable with proper care, but they require a bit more maintenance.

    •    Schedule a Salon Visit
Before you hit the road, schedule a visit to your stylist to ensure your extensions are in top condition. A professional check-up can address any potential issues and give your hair a fresh, polished look.

    •    Pack Wisely
Pack a dedicated hair care travel kit with all the essentials you’ll need to maintain your extensions. Include travel-sized versions of your favourite shampoo and conditioner, a leave-in conditioner, a wide-tooth comb, a soft bristle brush, hair ties, and bobby pins. Don’t forget a heat protectant spray if you plan to use styling tools.

2. Packing Your Extensions

    •    Protect Your Extensions
When packing your clip-in extensions, store them in a protective case or wrap them in a silk scarf to prevent tangling and damage. For tape-in and sew-in extensions, ensure your hair is properly braided or tied up to minimize friction and tangling during transit.

    •    Use a Hair Extension Carrier
Consider investing in a hair extension carrier. These carriers are specifically designed to keep your extensions organized and protected. They’re perfect for preventing your extensions from getting tangled or damaged in your luggage.

    •    Keep Styling Tools Handy
If you rely on heat styling tools, pack a travel-sized hair dryer, straightener, or curling iron. Make sure they are dual voltage if you’re traveling internationally to avoid any electrical mishaps. Remember to pack a heat-resistant mat to protect surfaces in your accommodation.

3. During Your Journey

    •    Secure Your Hair
Long flights, train rides, or car trips can be tough on your hair. To minimize tangling, secure your hair in a loose braid, bun, or ponytail. Avoid tight hairstyles that can strain your scalp and extensions.

    •    Stay Hydrated
Air travel can be dehydrating, which affects both your skin and hair. Drink plenty of water to keep your hair and extensions hydrated from the inside out. Consider using a hydrating leave-in conditioner before your flight to combat the dry cabin air.

    •    Avoid Touching Your Hair
Try to avoid constantly touching or playing with your hair during your journey. Excessive handling can lead to tangling and frizz, especially if you’re moving around a lot.

4. Caring for Extensions While Traveling

    •    Establish a Routine
Even while traveling, it’s important to maintain a consistent hair care routine. Stick to your regular schedule of washing, conditioning, and styling your extensions to keep them looking their best.

    •    Washing Your Extensions
When washing your hair extensions, use lukewarm water and a shampoo. Gently massage your scalp and extensions, avoiding vigorous rubbing. Follow with a hydrating conditioner, focusing on the mid-lengths to ends. Rinse thoroughly and gently squeeze out excess water with a microfiber towel.

    •    Drying Your Extensions
Allow your extensions to air dry whenever possible. If you must use a blow dryer, set it to a cool or low heat setting to prevent damage. Use a wide-tooth comb to detangle your hair while it’s still damp, starting from the ends and working your way up.

    •    Styling Tips
When styling your extensions, always apply a heat protectant spray before using any heat tools. Opt for low to medium heat settings to minimize damage. If you’re exploring a new city and don’t have time for a full styling session, consider quick and easy hairstyles like braids, buns, or ponytails.

 

5. Managing Different Climates

 

    •    Hot and Humid Climates
Hot and humid climates can cause your hair to frizz and your extensions to tangle. To combat this, use a lightweight, anti-frizz serum or spray. Consider wearing your hair in protective styles like braids or buns to minimize exposure to humidity.

    •    Cold and Dry Climates
Cold and dry climates can make your hair and extensions dry and brittle. Use a deep conditioning treatment once a week to keep your hair moisturized. A leave-in conditioner or hair oil can also help lock in moisture and add shine.

    •    Beach Destinations
If you’re heading to the beach, saltwater and chlorine can be harsh on your extensions. Before swimming, wet your hair with fresh water and apply a leave-in conditioner to create a barrier. After swimming, rinse your hair thoroughly and wash it as soon as possible to remove any salt or chlorine residue. Use one of the Malibu C products.

 

6. Hotel Hair Care

    •    Make Use of Hotel Amenities
Many hotels provide complimentary toiletries, but they may not always be the best quality for your extensions. Stick to your travel-sized hair care products whenever possible. If you forget something, check with the concierge for nearby stores where you can purchase what you need.

    •    Drying Your Hair in Hotels
If your hotel room doesn’t have a hair dryer, call the front desk to see if one is available. If you use the hotel’s hair dryer, be sure to use it on a low heat setting to avoid damaging your extensions.

 

7. Night-time Care

    •    Secure Your Hair Before Bed
Before going to bed, gently brush your hair and secure it in a loose braid or ponytail. This helps prevent tangling and friction while you sleep. If you have a silk or satin pillowcase, bring it along to reduce friction and keep your hair smooth.

    •    Use a Sleep Cap
Consider wearing a silk or satin sleep cap to protect your hair extensions while you sleep. This is especially helpful if you move around a lot during the night, as it keeps your hair secure and minimizes tangling.

 

 

8. Quick Fixes on the Go

    •    Dry Shampoo
Dry shampoo is a must-have for travellers with hair extensions. It helps absorb excess oil and refreshes your hair between washes. Spray it onto your roots, wait a few minutes, and then brush through to distribute the product.

    •    Hair Refresh Spray
A hair refresh spray can be a lifesaver for reviving your extensions after a long day of travel. Look for a lightweight, hydrating spray that adds shine and reduces frizz.

    •    Portable Hairbrush
A small, portable hairbrush or a wide-tooth comb is essential for keeping your extensions tangle-free on the go. Look for a brush with soft bristles to avoid damaging your extensions.

 

 

9. Dealing with Emergencies

    •    Extra Hair Ties and Bobby Pins
Always carry extra hair ties and bobby pins in your bag. They come in handy for quick touch-ups and securing your hair in unexpected situations.

    •    Mini Repair Kit
Pack a mini repair kit with a small pair of scissors, a travel-sized bottle of conditioner, and a few extra clips or tapes if you’re wearing clip-in or tape-in extensions. This kit can help you handle minor issues while on the road.

 

10. Enjoying Your Trip

    •    Embrace the Adventure
Traveling is about enjoying new experiences and making memories. Don’t stress too much about your hair – embrace the adventure and have fun. With the right preparation and care, your extensions will look great, allowing you to focus on your journey.

    •    Capture the Moments
Don’t forget to capture your travel moments with photos! With your hair extensions looking fabulous, you’ll want to document all the incredible places you visit and the fun times you have.

Traveling with hair extensions doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With proper preparation, the right products, and a consistent care routine, you can keep your extensions looking beautiful no matter where your adventures take you. At Viola Hair Extensions, we’re dedicated to helping you maintain gorgeous hair that enhances your confidence and style. Follow these travel tips, and you’ll be ready to hit the road with stunning, well-maintained extensions. Happy travels!