5. Bobby pins*
If you have been natural for more than a month, and already passed the TWA stage, then you have already developed a relationship with the good ole bobby pins*.
They are a natural hair girl’s bestie. Group your pins together in a container or simply wrap a rubber-band around a bunch of them to keep them together and toss in the bag.
Bobby pins are needed for most styles and sometimes it’s that one thing that can transform your entire look so make sure that you pack a few.
6. Headband
This is a given if you’re a Naturalista. Headbands* are a must in my daily handbag so can you imagine a vacation bag? As I said earlier, a puff is my saving grace when a style goes bad or if I am lazy and don’t want to do much to my hair. I know cannot be alone here. I always pack more than one just in case – God forbid – one burst open or gets lost.
Sleek your edges down with your gel or edge control and up into a puff you go. If you want a more elegant look then you can turn your puff into a high bun instead. Sleek and sexy.
7. Wide tooth comb*
If you will wash your hair and need to detangle, you might need more than your fingers. Yes finger detangling is great but not everyone wants to do it especially when on vacation. A wide tooth comb* helps you to detangle your hair while limiting breakage. And remember to detangle from the ends up to the roots carefully.
8. Soft bristle brush
To sleek your edges down a soft bristle brush will do wonders. And if you are like me, the nape of my hair is very unruly and only a brush can get my nape to look civilized.
9. Shampoo bar*
If you do not own a shampoo bar then you need to get one. Shampoo bars are great for traveling versus a liquid shampoo. Definitely no TSA trouble here. I personally love OBIA Coconut shampoo Bar because it cleans well and leaves my hair feeling soft. If you cannot get a shampoo bar* in time then simply pour some of your favorite shampoo in a travel size bottle.
10. Conditioner
After every shampoo we need to condition our hair. Your 2oz travel size container should be enough but it won’t hurt to pack two. I know us natural girls overdose on the conditioner – just because. Lol!
So there you have it. Traveling with natural hair can seem like a hassle but when you think about it, it’s a very simple packing process. Remember to pack what you know you will need and not try to pack your entire apartment. Now, go get to packing and enjoy!
What do you pack to maintain your natural hair when you go on vacation?
veronica grant-hawkes says
I thoroughly enjoyed the article on the 10 things to pack when traveling with natural hair.. I only wanted to enlighten our readers on a few things simply because I work for TSA. The liquid requirements rule is for carry on bags only, you can take any size liquid, cream, or gels and check your bag with your airline your traveling with. So please don’t limit yourself or your hair with not taking items you need because the fear of TSA throwing them in the trash.. Now for those that to travel light, your carry on policy is your items can be 3.4 oz. Or smaller, the travel size bottles that are sold in store like Walmart and Target have been selling these for years. So if your water spray bottle is 3.4 oz. No will take it from you…
I’m a natural girl myself so I understand when you need to take certain things with you to maintain your gorgeous look… Just wanted to help out…
Shelly Ann Cameron says
Hi Veronica,
Thank you for the added information. This is helpful. Thank you and I am happy that you enjoyed the article.
Dabney says
All great tips! My favorite thing to do is shop at a new store and find beauty products I have never used before. This is away to try different things and not worry about getting my products confiscated at the TSA! If I am in a country that doesn’t carry natural hair products, I will just get small bottles of conditioner, olive oil and a styling cream! Or I will just braid up my hair to last the whole trip.
Caleb says
These are definitely essential to have when you are traveling. Do not leave home without them.
She Deserae says
Sulfate free shampoo, moisturizing conditioner, leave in conditioner, Nairobi hairdress cream, strong large tooth comb, afro pick, head bands and satin pillowcase. Or get braids before we leave.
Linda Cushman says
Omg! Now what are you going to put your clothes and shoes in?!
Angel Park says
Grease and rubber bands.
Kelly Ostrom Alexander says
Cam
Linda PennyRed Gales says
Traylaunda Smith
Robin McDani says
ughhh sounds like what we should be packing is simply a wig