Friday, November 11, 2011

Traveling with/out hair

Hi Friends!


I hope you are staying warm today, wherever you are because it is cold here in Washington, DC! In a few days, I will be on a plane headed for the Bahamas and I cannot wait to warm up! I travel so frequently, that packing is something I am fully capable of doing last-minute (although, I regretfully admit that I have a reputation for always forgetting one thing). My life has gotten so busy this season, that I decided to take a moment last week and pack ahead of time. It felt strange to be preparing for anything so far in advance! But, for now, it looks like it's paid off! The downside is that every day I check the suitcase to make sure I actually packed what I thought I did.


My suitcase is full, and ready to go! But, the last few things I have to throw in tomorrow morning are my cell phone charger, my medication and my hair! I realized today that many women may not feel completely comfortable traveling with their hair just yet. So here are my tips- trust me, I have lots of experience!


Before packing, I always decide whether or not I plan to wear my hair on the plane. If not, then naturally, I will need to pack it. Most of my trips are for a few days at a time and I try to carry on my luggage as opposed to checking it in. For those trips, and during the winter, I usually decide to wear my hair on the plane. But, in the summer, or for longer trips, I utilize the option to pack my hair and travel as I am.


For anyone out there wondering if you will need to take your hair off at the security checkpoint- the answer is no. Each of my forms of identification includes a picture of me without a wig. I have always found that I would much prefer to prove my identity by taking off my wig, than finding myself in a position where they don't believe who I am because the girl on my license looks healthy and vibrant with makeup and long blond hair, and there I stand pale and nearly bald.


I have tried packing my hair many different ways- and it truly depends on what else is in your suitcase, and the size of your luggage. For this trip, I am using a large suitcase. I have everything packed and have positioned my shoes on one side, or under soft clothes- leaving a soft bed for the hair to lay.




First, I comb the hair as best I can and apply a smoothing cream, leave-in conditioner, or frizz-away spray (whatever you have at home). This will aid in avoiding lots of frizzy hair when you unpack. Next you place the wig on your traveling head (Styrofoam is the lightest and easiest, I have found). Plus, if you change your mind and decide to wear your hair on the trip back, you can dispose of the styrofoam head if need be!








I use four T pins- one in the center at the top, two above where your ears would normally be, and one at the base of the head. Next, cover the hair with a hair net. Last, you will wrap the entire head in a pillow case or a delicates laundry bag. 


If you haven't enough space for a mannequin head in your luggage, then complete the same process and wrap the hair gently into a hair net, and then another, before laying in a pillowcase. I often do this when traveling with a single carry on.


If you have extra space (like I do in the last picture)- be sure to add some filling like tissue paper or cotton t-shirts, so your hair isn't rolling around the entire flight!


Quick note- be sure the hair is dry before you pack it!


When I travel, I have so many things to bring that I minimize my hair accessories. Based on what style you prefer your hair, I suggest traveling with a wig that requires the least fuss! Typically, I bring my straightener, because I can use it to either tame the hair, or curl it. I always bring a small bottle of leave in conditioner, and a tiny bottle of hair spray.


I hope this helps the next time you are traveling! These tips work for traveling with hair extensions, too. Do you have any suggestions that I didn't cover? Leave a comment! I love learning new ideas!


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