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21 Hair-Care Hacks for Any Summer Adventure

Whether you're skipping town solo for a weekend to recharge or embarking on a road trip with family and friends, nothing beats a summer escape! But trying to pack lightly for these trips usually means leaving our full beauty and hair-care routine behind.

That’s why we compiled 21 travel hair-care hacks to keep your locks looking gorgeous even when you're away from home! Read to learn more about traveling with natural hair, prep tips for protecting your aging tresses from the elements and the best travel hair-care products to bring along to keep your hair looking sleek and healthy while you're on the road!

1. Hold the Heat, Not the Volume

Heat-free hairstyling is the name of the game on a hot summer day. But just because you’re holding the heat, doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice volume and lift! Enter a heat-free hair hack you’ll love: Lift Me Up Hair Thickener revives flat, lifeless locks in a flash. Simply spray roots with the precision nozzle, flip your hair upside down and gently fluff hair with your hands for instant lift and allover volume.

2. Keep Chlorine Out, No Swim Cap Required

While nothing beats a refreshing dip in the pool, chlorine water couldn’t be worse for our delicate, aging strands! When a swim cap isn’t part of the plan, treat your delicate tresses to a hydrating conditioner like our Hair Redemption Restorative Butter Masque (though all of our conditioners will do the trick!) before pool time to help prevent chlorine from absorbing into your hair. The plant-based butters and oils melt into your hair and act as a protective layer against damaging chlorine by sealing the hair cuticles while helping strands stay hydrated.

3. Detox Your Beach-Day Scalp in 1 Step

A day in the sun is fun, but the elements can aggravate sensitive scalps and contribute to clogged pores. This is why our New Dawn Activated Charcoal Scalp Cleanser is our go-to for post-beach self-care. Designed to deeply clean with its unique built-in massaging applicator, it also cools and soothes the scalp with menthyl lactate, leaving it refreshed and stimulated.

4. Shield and Hydrate with No Remorse

Your hair needs SPF, too. But slathering gooey sunscreen onto our tresses isn’t very realistic—or recommended! Fight back with one of our favorite travel hair hacks: Our No Remorse Heat Protection & Taming Spray is a hydrating, heat-protecting and frizz-fighting essential like no other! It’s packed with argan oil, avocado oil and vitamin E and protects against damaging UV rays while smoothing away frizz and boosting moisture in mature tresses. You can also find this beach-bag essential in our limited-edition Summer Hair SOS Minis Kit , which includes our volumizing shampoo and conditioner plus butter masque.

5. Grab Your Hair and Scalp Summer Lifesaver

Damage to our hair doesn’t always appear overnight but the effects of summer’s harsh elements can creep up on us before we know it! Our Superpower Fortifying Hair & Scalp Serum is just the product to nourish your scalp and hair follicles for visible improvement to your aging hair. Apply this lightweight, non-greasy serum daily for the extra TLC your hair and scalp need when the mercury rises.

6. Get a Pre-Trip Trim

Start your trip with healthy ends by getting a trim before you go! This travel hair hack will help keep your hair looking healthy and prevent further splitting while you're away. If you've been thinking about going shorter for summer but haven't taken the plunge, getting a fresh cut right before your trip will ensure you've got healthy, stylish hair for all of your vacation pics!

7. Pack Travel-Size Hairstyling Products

When you’re short on space, travel-size hair-care products are a godsend! Minis of your favorite products help you maintain your hair-care routine while you’re away and keep your hair looking its best! Our Volume + Strength Minis Discovery Kit is an excellent choice for travel-size hair-care products. It features 2 oz versions of our best-selling essentials—volumizing shampoo and conditioner plus butter masque—in a cute neoprene travel bag! We also have a minis kit for curly hair as well as a fragrance-free option—check out all our travel-size hairstyling products here !

8. Bring an Extra Toothbrush to Fix Flyaways Fast

A spare unused toothbrush is a crucial hairstyling tool if you're prone to flyaways! The small brush head allows you to precisely apply your favorite hairspray or smoothing product like our No Remorse Heat Protection & Taming Spray exactly where you need it. Plus, because No Remorse doubles as a heat protectant, you know your tresses will be protected from the sun's harmful UV rays while you soak up some vitamin D!

9. Sport a Vintage Silk Scarf for Protective Style

Our mothers and grandmothers were onto something! Wearing a pretty silk scarf on a road trip protects our hair from sun and wind while keeping us cool by keeping our hair off of our necks. Remember the famous selfie from the movie Thelma & Louise ? That kind of vintage style keeps your hairstyle intact while protecting your locks.

To create this look, simply fold a square scarf or bandana in half to make a triangle. With the top point of the triangle pointing behind you, place the widest part at your hairline and tie the scarf under the back of your hair. (Be sure to use a silk scarf to minimize friction on your hair!)

10. Smooth Sunscreen onto Your Hair Part

We know that we need to slather on sunscreen to protect our skin from sun damage. But we often overlook our ears, spots under thinner hair by our temples, and our hair part when we're applying the proper 1 oz of sunscreen. These areas are highly susceptible to sunburn, so don't forget to apply sunscreen there!

Pro tip: Try using a sunscreen stick for easy application on smaller areas like your scalp and ears. (And if you're flying, sunscreen sticks can go right in your carry-on, unlike large liquid bottles of sunblock!)

11. Don’t Forget to Rinse Off, Pre-Pool

While many public pools have a shower-before-you-swim policy, this actually benefits your hair’s health as well. Our hair strands naturally absorb water each time we shower or go swimming, so by rinsing our hair with fresh water before hopping in the pool, our delicate strands will soak up less of the water that’s been treated with chlorine, which as we know isn’t great for our hair!

12. Follow with a Post-Swim Hair Rinse

We just said to pre-rinse your locks before jumping in the pool, but a post-swim rinse is also a necessary step for keeping your hair healthy. Rinsing your hair with fresh, lukewarm water removes as much chlorine as possible from the surface of your hair, minimizing the impact of pool chemicals on your aging tresses!

Pro tip: Pack an extra bottle of water just for your hair as a backup so you can still give it a rinse if there’s no fresh water around.

13. Let Your Sarong Do Double Duty as a Hair Tie

Left your scrunchies and hair ties at home? Not a problem—your cute cover-up can go from fashion statement to hair-saving essential in a pinch, pulling hair up and away when you step into the pool or ocean. From a chic turban (think, just-out-of-the-shower hair wrap) to a ponytail holder, your options are endless.

14. Dry Your Hair with a T-Shirt

The same hair-drying rules apply when you’re on the beach—bath towels are rough on our aging strands and your beach towel is no different. A soft T-shirt will safely soak up any excess water without roughing up your cuticles. (Remember: Raised cuticles let moisture in your hair escape more easily). Gentle hair-drying is particularly important for curly hair that’s already prone to frizz—especially on hot summer days!

15. Give Beach Hat Hair a Lift Me Up

If you were sun-smart and wore a protective hat to the beach, you might be dealing with hat hair afterward. Try this travel hair hack to fix flat, lifeless hat hair: Spray your roots with a volumizing hair thickener like our Lift Me Up Hair Thickener , then flip your hair upside down and quickly give your roots a blast of warm—not hot!—air from your blow-dryer. Your roots will have volume, and any hint of hat hair will be long gone!

16. Don't Forget a Comb and Hair Butter for Tangles

Tangles are inevitable when you’re enjoying ocean breezes and coastal drives. Using a hairbrush to detangle or style wet hair is damaging , so be sure to pack a wide-toothed comb for your trip! This is especially important if your hair has been exposed to saltwater, which can wreak havoc on our hair, especially for those of us with curly hair. For super-tight tangles, a little hair butter will make detangling your tresses much, much easier.

Pro tip: Pack a metal wide-toothed comb for even gentler detangling and less friction than plastic combs!

17. Condition Before Shampooing Post-Beach

Got curls? This travel hair hack is especially for you! To prep your post-beach hair for sulfate-free shampooing , try using a conditioner before you wash your hair. This makes lathering up and working the suds through your curls (and potential tangles!) a little less challenging while helping to prevent breakage and damage to fragile, curly locks. After wetting hair in the shower, simply apply conditioner, comb hair gently and rinse before your regular wash-day routine!

18. Style Your Hair with Day and Night in Mind

When we're on vacation, we want to relax while still looking great! One of the best travel hair hacks for cutting down prep time for a night out is to choose a chic hairstyle that goes effortlessly from day to night, like a loose twist or fishtail braid. And with styles like these, you’ve got options: You can stick with your daytime look for evening or undo your hairstyle to enjoy bouncy beach waves that don’t require any heat styling. For style inspiration, check out our compilation of 17 easy no-heat hairstyling hacks that are gentle on your hair and perfect for summer!

19. Style Next-Day Hair with TikTok’s ‘90s Claw Clip Trend

Are you more of a "set it and forget it" kind of gal? Try styling your hair with a claw clip, à la the 1990s! This is the latest hair trend, thanks to young people on TikTok, and trying this style couldn't be easier. Best of all, it works wonderfully on next-day hair!

Try this low-maintenance style: Spritz all over with a volumizing spray that adds texture, like our Lift Me Up . Next, gather your hair into a low ponytail and twist hair into a loose French twist. (The messier, the better!) Secure in place by adding a claw clip to the twist.

20. Kick Summer Brassiness to the Curb

We love the summer sun, but not so much what it can do to our hair color. Whether you have blonde, gray or even darker hair with highlights, brassiness can become a problem. Enter our Silver Lining Purple Brightening Shampoo and Silver Lining Purple Butter Masque formulated with D&C Violet 2, an optical colorant that reduces the intensity of yellow tones and brassiness to help brighten and boost the vibrancy of your hair color. This duo is also great for hydrating, strengthening and adding volume to aging hair.

21. Pack Your Probiotics—Your Gut Will Thank You!

When we're on vacation, we tend to let loose with our diets to enjoy delicious meals out. This can upset our gut and skin health. To help our digestion and balance out our well-deserved indulgences while on vacation, we love our You Glow Girl Probiotic Skin Supplement ! You Glow Girl is formulated with billions of good bacteria, hyaluronic acid and vitamin C to help you look and feel your best from the inside out!

Tell Us: What are your favorite travel-size hairstyling products and travel hair hacks for aging and natural hair? Share in the comments below!

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Better Not Younger knows that road trips and weekend adventures are some of the best parts of summer, but being away from home presents unique challenges for keeping your tresses looking their best! Whether you're planning a weekend getaway to the beach or a long trip full of outdoor fun, Better Not Younger has all of the hair-care products you need to keep your mature tresses looking their best while you're on the road.

Lazy Girl’s Guide to Travel Beauty Hacks

TOILETRIES , Travel Beauty Tips , Travel Makeup

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On my recent trip to Europe, I managed to do my daily hair and makeup in ten – fifteen minutes. Considering it usually takes me at least twice as long, I’m pretty happy! Not only does this save me time while traveling but I’ve also continued this routine at home, too. So easy and effortless! Find out my latest travel beauty hacks! (Pics below!)

Travel Beauty Hacks

Table of contents.

I’ve never been a fake eyelash kinda gal because I’m too clumsy to apply them myself. Recently, however, I got semi-permanent  4D Russian eyelashes after seeing just about every woman in my town wearing them. Being curious about why all these women were obsessed about the eyelashes, I finally gave in and tried it for myself.

Wow! Why had I waited so long? They’re fantastic!!

My eyelashes may look great but  I’m less focused about their appearance and more obsessed with their  benefits . What I find astounding is that I don’t have to wear any eye makeup. Nothing. No eye shadow. No eyeliner. No mascara. Nothing. Nada. Zilch. Zero.

In fact,  I hardly have to wear any makeup at all,  making my life way easier and more hassle free. I save time at home and on the go.

Makeup/Hair Routine

Below are my before and after pictures with and without makeup. My new everyday AND travel makeup/hair routine is less than 15 minutes:

Non-edited, NO filter pic wearing only the new semi-permanent eye lashes and wand styled haired (mentioned below)  without any makeup.

A minute or two later still wearing no makeup but  I’ve added Tinted Brow Gel , which is one of my new favorite time-saving beauty hacks.

Five minutes later, I’ve added primer, concealer, two blush colors, powder, and tinted lip gloss.  I’m still using six makeup products but I’ve eliminated all my eye makeup , which previously consisted of a four-shadow palette, two double-ended makeup brushes, mascara, and eyeliner.

These are the makeup products I used in the pic :

• Charlotte Tilbury Wonder Glow primer
• Nars Creamy Concealer in Custard
• MAC Powder Blush in Harmony
• Nars Blush in Orgasm
• MAC Studio Fix Powder
• Nars Lip Gloss in Super Orgasm

Not only did I save space on my recent Europe trip but I’m also saving valuable travel time, too! As I relished in the excitement of these new lashes, I started to think about all the other awesome beauty shortcuts I’ve found recently.

Time-Saving Travel Beauty Hacks

Here are a few of my top time-saving travel beauty hacks:

Beautaniq Beauty Fill + Tame Brow Gel

Tinted Brow Gel

I’ve been using the Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Wiz for years but have failed to become a brow maven even after watching endless (okay, a couple of) YouTube tutorials. Due to poor technique and laziness, I started using powder instead of a pencil to fill them in.

And then the postman knocks on my door to deliver my monthly  Birchbox shipment. I eagerly opened it up to find a product I’d never used before: tinted brow gel. I tried the  Beautaniq Beauty Fill + Tame Brow Gel  and loved it! It’s such an easy way to add a bit of color to my eyebrows!

The result is a natural finish, which I love, and it takes me just a few seconds to brush the color on. I love the ease of this product. Pair the eyebrow gel with the semi-permanent eye lashes and my eye makeup routine just went from twenty to thirty minutes down to one minute.

Yay! I’m on to a winner.

You can find more eyebrow makeup ideas  here !

AfterSpa Magic Make Up Remover

Reusable Makeup Remover Cloth

The AfterSpa Magic Make Up Remover is another product I got in my  Birchbox , which has been helpful in cleansing my face in the shower without wetting my eyelashes. Because of the eyelash extensions, I have to be more careful with the way I wash my face.

Some travelers love this product for travel, too, because it eliminates the need to use liquid face wash.

Find out what our readers recommend as the best makeup remover wipes and cleaners for travel!

InfinitiPro by Conair Tourmaline Ceramic Curling Wand

Waving Wand

I bought the Tresemme Perfectly (un)Done Waving Wand (which is now sold out) a couple of years ago in England and was using it only occasionally until now. It’s made my life so much easier! This InfinitiPro by Conair Tourmaline Ceramic Curling Wand is a similar one.

All I do is blow dry or air dry my hair, brush it out, and use the wand to style it. I split my hair into approximately ten sections and curl each about 30 seconds. With the wand  my unruly frizzy hair is tamed and glam in less than ten minutes !!!

My hair looks like I’ve spent a million hours fixing it when in reality I just wrap random pieces of my hair around the wand and twist however I can maneuver my hand around without getting burned. Because the waves are random, they disguise my curly roots as they start frizzing throughout the day.

Note: time to dry my hair isn’t included in my 10-15 minute prep time.

For more ideas, check out the most recommended  travel curling irons  and  travel blow dryers ! Make sure to read about  voltage and travel adapters  so you don’t burn out your hair tools and electronics when abroad!

Gelish Mini Sassy Intergalactic Glam

In my attempt to find the most cost effective nail option in England, I discovered Gelish manicures and pedicures. Your nail polish dries immediately and then stays on until you have it removed, meaning I only have to go to the nail salon once a month and I will actually have nice nails during that time not semi-chipped nails. Yesss!

Aside from saving my time (and patience), my nail color also lasts longer, even when I’m traveling and scuba diving, spending prolonged periods of time in the water.

Here are some tips on how to make your vacation manicure last longer!

Oral-B 5000 Rechargeable Electric Toothbrush

Electric Toothbrush Upgrade

Lastly, I learned an unexpected travel beauty hack when I upgraded my electric toothbrush a few months back to one of the models in the  Oral-B 5000 Electric Toothbrush  series. After extensive research, I found an electric toothbrush that was more powerful than the one I had but not overpriced with all kinds of features I didn’t need.

I’m unbelievably satisfied with my choice. Aside from feeling happy with my dental hygiene this particular device can go two weeks without charging!

The “hack” is that I don’t have to pack a charger so this saves me space and time because it’s one less thing to worry about in my beauty routine while on the go. On trips that are under ten days, I leave the charger at home.

Note: this is my favorite toothpaste so I decant it into one of these containers whenever I travel.

Overall, my hair and makeup are done so much faster yet I look more done up than before. That’s a big win in my book. All these little travel beauty hacks add up to save time and suitcase space, too!

Looking for the perfect toiletry bag to pack all your beauty supplies? Check out this post for our top  toiletry bags !

What are your travel beauty hacks? Share in the comments below!

For more travel makeup ideas, please read:

• Capsule Makeup Collection
• Best Waterproof Mascara
• Best Eyebrow Makeup
• Best Long-Lasting Foundations

LIKED THIS POST? PIN THIS PIC TO SAVE IT!

I hope you liked this lazy girl’s guide to travel beauty hacks. Please share it with your friends on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest. Thanks for reading!

10 comments.

Love your eyelashes. Did you go to a salon to have them applied?

Hi Kathy, I started with 4D but now use the 6D volume lashes (also known as Russian lashes). They last about 2-4 weeks and you can get them filled every 2-3 weeks.

They’re perfect for a trip and NO racoon eyes 😀 or no need for any eye makeup 💄

Hi there! Great advice. Can you tell me about the earrings you are wearing. Thanks!

Thank you Jennifer! Which photo are you referring to?

Alex you do not need makeup. You look fabulous.

Thank you! 🥰

Alex you look fantastic and you dont need any makeup – you are pretty enough. do you have any other travel beauty tips?

Hi Carrie, that is so kind of you, thank you so much!!! ? Have a look at our ultimate guide to traveling with makeup here: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/makeup/ Hope this helps! ?

Do you k ow of there is an electric toothbrush that is dual wattage so I can use it in the us and England? We are living in England temporarily and I was recommended to get one. Thank you for this informative website!

Hi Margaret, thank you for your comment, so pleased you find the blog informative! I brought this tooth brush whilst in England: https://amzn.to/2u8fyYw. Its a great toothbrush as it is more powerful and not overpriced charging me for lots of features which I don’t need. Also it has a great battery so I don’t have to pack the charger whilst travelling for short periods of time. Hope this helps! 🙂

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70 Travel Hacks That Will Change Your Travel Game Forever

With 57 countries under my belt and more than a decade of traveling regularly, I think it’s safe to say that I’m an expert in the field. I’ve made every mistake you could imagine—missed flights, lost baggage, exploding hair irons—but with each disastrous experience, I’ve grown a little bit wiser, and a LOT savvier when it comes to traveling like a seasoned pro.

These travel hacks for flying, packing, saving money, getting hotel upgrades and more are the secrets I swear by. I hope they’ll help make your next trip pleasurable, memorable, and stress-free.

70 Travel Hacks That Will Blow Your Mind

1. use my “contact lens case” hack for makeup and skincare products ..

This is one of my best space saving packing hacks. People tend to take up unnecessary room in their toiletry bags by bringing full-sized products.

Here’s the trick: put your foundation, moisturizer, eye cream , and any other liquid products into contact lens cases. Every inch counts!

2. Be strategic in your seat selection when booking a flight.  

There’s nothing worse than getting stuck in a seat that doesn’t recline, or ending up in a row next to the lavatory with people hovering over you for the entire flight. I avoid these kind of mishaps by checking SeatGuru before I choose my seat on flights.

Occasionally, I’ll even choose a flight based on the type of plane that SeatGuru tells me I’ll be flying on. The website and app shows you photos of the plane’s interior so you’ll know in advance whether you’re booking an outdated 747, or a brand spanking new plane.

Plus, it gives you warnings about seats that have potential issues, like limited recline or a misaligned window.

3. Pack your own DIY amenity kit for long-haul flights.

I loooove the amenity kits that you get when you fly First or Business, but since I don’t always have that luxury, I decided to start making my own. My “DIY kit” stays in my carry-on bag at all times, and includes a toothbrush and toothpaste, deodorant, sheet masks, moisturizer, hand cream, eye masks , lip balm, and socks.

4. Avoid cankles by wearing compression socks.

They’re basically Spanx for your calves and feet, because feeling swollen after a long-haul flight is the WORST.

5. Consider choosing an “alternate destination” when you search.

If the city you’re flying in or out of isn’t a main hub, consider flying into a bigger city and connecting or finding a flight (or other mode of transportation) out of that city.

Not only will you save money, but you have the potential to earn more mileage points.

6. Download the Google Translate app to help with language barriers.

You can use it to take photos of text in another language, and it will translate the words in real time. (I have a separate blog post featuring the best travel apps for savvy jetsetters , which you should check out as well!)

7. Use packing cubes.

Another space saving packing hack that I swear by? Packing cubes! I truthfully thought these were a scam until I tried them out for myself.

They not only compress your items to give you additional space, but they also help keep you organized—I use a small one for socks and underwear, a medium-sized one for tops, another medium-sized one for comfortable walking shoes and sneakers , and a large one for jeans , pants, and dresses.

8. Look out for price errors.

Often times, there will be glitches on airline or third party sites that offer a ridiculous low fare. Sign up to these sites to keep an eye on them. But know that you will have to act quick, as these companies will typically fix the fare as soon as they catch it. Here are some great resources to keep an eye on for low fare deals.

• Scott’s Cheap Flights (or Jack’s Flight Club for UK-based people)
• The Flight Deal
• Secret Flying (if you’re based out of Europe)
• Holiday Pirates
• Airfarewatchdog.com 
• FlyerTalk Mileage Run (discussion board)

* Bonus Tip: Fill your social media with these sleuths by following them on Instagram and Twitter!

9. Take advantage of generous credit card offers.

The greatest travel hack of all time? Credit cards and points. Open up a credit card that has a sign-up bonus (assuming you can be responsible enough to pay your bills!), and transfer the points to an airline for a pricey international flight.

Check out my full step-by-step guide to using points and miles for free travel if you haven’t already!

10. Be strategic with flight cancellations.

If you book a nonrefundable ticket and your plans change or you know you won’t be traveling on that flight—do not cancel the ticket until the last possible moment.

Or…just don’t show up. Here’s why: in the rare case that there’s a flight cancellation or schedule change, your nonrefundable ticket could entitle you to a credit or refund. Had you cancelled the ticket, you wouldn’t be entitled to anything.

11. Learn how to avoid long airport security lines.

TSA-precheck, Global Traveler, and Clear have been an absolute gamechanger for me, and if you travel more than a few times a year, they are absolutely something worth investing in. If you’re not familiar:

• TSA Precheck enables you to use a separate line for domestic (US) flights, and you won’t be required to take off your shoes or take out your laptop.
• Global Traveler is for international flights and (as far as I know) is for the US only. When you’re returning to the US, you use a machine that scans your passport rather than having to wait in line at customs.
• Clear lets you scan your fingertips at security and then get escorted to the front of line at airports where it is offered.

12. Take a hydration multiplier for long flights.

While everyone will tell you to “drink as much water as possible” and “try to stay hydrated” on a long-haul flights, the reality is that if you’re drinking a liter of water on a plane, you’re going to find yourself getting up to go to the bathroom repeatedly.

My hack for this is to use Liquid IV. It’s a “hydration multiplier” that hydrates you 2-3 times faster than water alone. You pour the little packet of powder into your water bottle, shake it up, and then drink.

It tastes pretty similar to Gatorade (the lemon/lime is my preferred flavor) and will keep you hydrated without sending you to use the restroom every 30 seconds.

13. Keep track of itinerary ideas in Google Docs.

I use Google Docs for all of my itineraries—especially when I’m planning a girls trip and there are multiple people involved. I’ll share the link with everyone I’m traveling with to make it more collaborative. It’s also where I keep a running list of recommendations from people for the destination that I’m visiting.

14. Challenge yourself not to check a bag.

Avoid lost baggage nightmares by packing carry-on only for trips under a week. In need of luggage that actually fits a lot of stuff? Here’s a list of the best carry-on bags that help save space with packing.

15. Order a “special meal” in advance of a long-haul flight.

Most major airlines will offer the option to order a special meal when you book your flight—these include vegetarian, gluten-free, dairy-free, kosher, vegan, low fat, and sometimes even low sodium options.

People who place orders for “special meals” will always get served first, so if you’re hoping to catch some z’s on the flight, you’ll have more time to sleep while everyone else is waiting for their food to arrive.

16. Save local currency from the country you’re visiting as a souvenir.

My husband and I started doing this many years ago, and now we have what we jokingly call a “world bank” at home. It’s a cool alternative to buying a dumb keychain or t-shirt you’ll never wear.

17. Create a framed collage of foreign currency from your trips after you get home.

I often find foreign currency to be incredibly beautiful. We’ve taken some of the best-looking bills from various places we’ve visited, and framed them.

18. Do the same with hotel room keys, airline tickets, and baggage tags.

You can use a place like Framebridge to arrange and frame them for you—they’ll even send you a pre-paid envelope to mail in your items.

19. Talk to taxi drivers.

Often, a simple taxi ride from the airport to your hotel will turn into an impromptu city tour if you ask the right questions.

20. Build your itinerary using Go ogle Maps Trip Planner.

This might be the greatest travel hack of all time. Did you know that there’s a FREE tool within Google Maps that you can use to create an entire itinerary for your next trip? It’s called Google Maps Trip Planner and it’s incredible.  

21. Don’t exchange money at the airport.

Wait and go to an ATM near your hotel for better exchange rates.

22. Take advantage of layovers as often as possible.

Sometimes, I’ll even choose flights with 12+ hour layovers as a way to see another city for a day.

23. Never miss another photo opp.

Take photos in “burst” mode so you don’t need to worry about missing the shot.

24. Carry a photocopy of your passport in your wallet.

Just in case.

25. Speaking of wallets… invest in a good travel wallet.

Trying to keep track of boarding passes, passport photocopies, foreign currency, and receipts can get a bit messy if you’re trying to stuff everything into your regular, everyday wallet.

The best way to stay organized while you’re heading out of town is to use an inexpensive but chic travel wallet that has additional compartments for travel-related items. 

26. Use a travel agent or tour operator for special trips or multi-city itineraries.

They can often get you better rates and preferential treatment at hotels.

27. Become a points and miles pro.

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again—I’ve learned everything I know about points, miles, and travel hacks from my friend Brian Kelly, aka The Points Guy . Browse through his site for all the secrets.

28. Easily share photos with friends/family.

Start a shared album with your the people you’re traveling with at the beginning of a trip, so you’re able to easily exchange photos.

29. Get the experience of a luxury hotel without staying at one.

Dying to stay at a fancy hotel but can’t afford the nightly rate? Pop in to the lobby bar for drinks instead.

30. Plan your trip during “shoulder season” to take advantage of better hotel rates and less crowds.

Shoulder season = the period between high and low season, when the weather is still great but the destination is less busy. In places like Positano , Santorini , and Mykonos for example, shoulder season is generally April through the middle of June, and September through October.

31. Avoid jetlag by getting onto the local time zone as soon as you board the plane.

If it’s technically morning in the destination you’re going to when you board the plane, do NOT go to sleep—even if it’s midnight where you’re leaving from. If you work on adjusting to the time zone while on the flight, you’ll have a better chance of battling jet lag when you arrive.

32. Hire a local guide during the first day of your trip in a foreign city.

It’ll help you get the lay of the land. Then ask your guide for non-touristy recommendations to hit up during the rest of your trip. Also: if you’re traveling with a big group, DEFINITELY hire a guide. It takes the pressure off of one person being put in charge of the itinerary.

One of the best things I’ve ever done was hire a guide for my five-day trip to Tokyo since I wanted to see as many things as I could in a short period of time.

33. Use a sheet mask on long flights to replenish the moisture back into your skin.

I love using these sheet masks on the plane. Instead of looking haggard when you land, your skin looks super glowy and fresh.

34. Hire a passport/visa expediting service if you’re in a pinch.

I used a company called “It’s Easy” to renew my passport when I was super tight on time, and they were able to get it to me within a few days.

35. Keep a “packing checklist” in your phone.

You can refer back to it every time you’re heading out of town. I have an example of my travel packing checklist here .

36. Always keep your boarding pass.

I usually keep mine until I see that my miles have posted on my frequent flyer account—if you end up having to claim missing miles from your airline, you’ll need to have your ticket number and confirmation number as a reference. Which leads me to my next point…

37. Create a frequent flyer account on every airline you travel with.

There’s no reason not to. If you don’t you’ll be missing out on valuable miles that could potentially be put toward your next trip. I personally have FF account with: American, Delta, JetBlue, United, Cathay Pacific/Asia Miles, British Airways/Avios.

38. Keep your iPhone photos organized.

Save all of your favorite trip photos into an album in iPhoto so that you can find them quickly.

39. Turn your travel photos into cool animations using free apps.

One of my favorite ways to jazz up my photos following a trip is by using apps like KiraKira and Enlight Pixeloop. (For example, I have a little tutorial that shows you how to add falling snow to your photos in 30 seconds.)

40. Use a pants hanger to ensure blinds stay closed over night.

There’s nothing worse than waking up at the crack of dawn on vacation because of a small gap in the hotel drapes. I avoid this by using a hanger with trouser clips to secure the two window shades together.

41. To find cheap flights, consider looking beyond the obvious sites like Kayak and Expedia.

If you set the tab or filter to “everywhere” or “anywhere” and are flexible with your dates and travel time, you can find really inexpensive flights and even earn extra miles if you fly an extra leg.

A few of the best “deals” sites are:

• Sky Scanner

42. Always ask for an upgrade.

Unless you’re on an unlimited budget or celebrating a special occasion, never book the best room at a hotel—but always ask for an upgrade. I did this on a recent trip to Maui , as well as in the Maldives and St Barths , and totally lucked out!

Make sure to join the hotel’s loyalty program before arriving (they’re free), since they usually honor those requests for members as long as a higher room category is available.

43. Sometimes, the budget airlines have even cheaper flights on their sites.

Also, if you sign up for their newsletter and loyalty clubs, you get added perks and insider info. A few that comes to mind are Norwegian, Frontier, Southwest, and Spirit.

44. Be a “country counter.”

Download the “Been” app to keep track of the countries and states you’ve visited.

45. Get a more authentic “local” experience with your accommodation.

Using sites like Air BnB, VRBO, Booking and others gives you the opportunity to live more locally and at a significantly discounted rate. In fact, sometimes the house share experience is more personalized and luxurious.

46. Book a private room at a hostel to save money.

If hostels are an option (check HostelWorld.com), you can book private rooms for a really cheap rate. This is a great way to 1) save money 2) meet new people (perhaps people you could room with in another country on future trips.)

47. Always have a back-up power source.

Charge an external battery before you travel, and have it with you on the plane in case the seats don’t have outlets.

48. Compare flight prices using Airfare Matrix.

AirFare Matrix is something travel agents use. It is a Google tool and allows you to do some great price comparison without the third party interjection (that can sometimes cause you to pay more if you’re not searching in an incognito browser).

You can’t book directly from the site, but can use the codes as a source to get the cheapest price when you call an agent, or even the airline.

49. Try toggling to a different “home” country when searching for flights to get cheaper rates.

If you’re looking to fly a specific airline, set your country (usually in the top right hand corner or in the website’s footer) to one that has a good FX rate (of the countries available, of course).

This will allow you to view and purchase the flights in another currency, and potentially save big! It will take some time and some trial and error, but if you have the time, it’s worth it!

50. Mark your bag fragile.

It’ll be handled properly and make it to the top of the pile, ensuring your luggage comes out in the first batch!

51. Before you pay for an upgraded cabin, see if the flight is full.

If not, put yourself on the upgrade list as soon as you can. Also, offering to get bumped from a flight and wait for the next flight could give you leverage to negotiate a better seat (and maybe even money or points).

52. Use FourSquare for Wifi.

You can find wifi passwords on FourSquare for restaurants, cafes and other places (just be careful, obviously, as not all of these are secure.)

53. Turn on “Private Browser” when searching for flights. 

Prices do, in fact, fluctuate based on the cookies in your web browser and how many searches you’ve performed for a specific destination. Which is why searching for flights in a private browser (also known as “incognito mode”) is an absolute must.

If you’re using Google Chrome, you can enable Incognito mode by hitting Command + SHIFT + N.

If you’re using Firefox or IE, you can enable a private browser by hitting COMMAND + SHIFT + P.

54. Bring an oversize scarf on the plane that doubles as a blanket.

Then wear it as a chic cape during your trip.

55. Save on parking by pairing up with a local.

Garage Pointer is a website that connects you with people who own parking spaces and are willing to rent them (temporarily) to visitors. As of now Garage Pointer is only available in the U.S.

56. Rent a car…from a local.

Ready for the best car travel hack? Look into whether or not Turo is available in your destination. The app and website connects you with people who own cars and are willing to rent them out for a fee that is (usually) much less than traditional car rental.

57. Overwhelmed with what to pack? There’s an app for that.

PackPoint helps you determine what to pack based on where you are going and the length of your trip. It checks the weather in your upcoming destination and then provides a detailed packing list for you. (I would also recommend using my “what to wear” guide if you’re packing for trip to Europe in the winter .)

58. Use a service to ship your clothes ahead of your trip.

Sure, this might not be for everyone, but did you know there was a service that stores, packs, ships and cleans your clothes prior to trips? It’s a company called DUFL . While it’s definitely targeted to a very specific market, DUFL is an incredible concept.

You send them a capsule wardrobe (consisting of clothes you need for every trip, like business travel), and they’ll store the clothes in a “virtual closet,” which you can access through the app prior to your departure. They then send the clothes to your hotel ahead of your arrival, and collect them to dry clean and store when you leave.

59. Use FlightAware to track your flights.

The website and app allows you to track your flight (or the flights of loved ones) in real time. It’ll also keep you up to date on important info, like whether the incoming flight is delayed, or if the flight had to be rerouted for any reason.

60. Invest in a good adapter/plug converter.

I like this one because it works in all countries, and also has USB ports.

61. Book tours and experiences through AirBnB.

Did you know that Airbnb can be a great resource for things other than accommodations? Over the past few years, the company has expanded to include incredible local experiences and tours.

62. Wear a travel outfit that looks super chic—but it secretly comfortable.

I have an entire blog post dedicated to this (linked above!) but in a nutshell, I’m a big fan of looking put together when I travel. However, I also wouldn’t be caught dead wearing jeans on a long flight.

There are a few little tricks I use to turn otherwise sloppy outfits into something that you’d be confident walking into a luxury hotel wearing.

The most important thing? A lightweight fringed scarf (which doubles as a blanket mid-flight) and a leather or denim jacket. 

63. Invest in a great pair of noise-cancelling headphones.

We’ve all been stuck next to a screaming child or chronic sniffler on long flights, and the experience can truly get your trip started off on the wrong foot.

I truly can not tell you how much of a game-changer noise-cancelling headphones are. While everyone else around you is having a meltdown over not being able to sleep or concentrate, you’ll be in your own little zen world.

Pro tip : if you don’t want to spring for the fanciest new technology, buy older or discontinued models of Bose headphones on Amazon for a fraction of the price for latest models.

64. Leverage special occasions for perks.

Celebrating a big anniversary or planning a trip for your honeymoon ? Be sure to let the hotel know in advance. When my husband and I went to Thailand and the Maldives for our honeymoon, we mentioned it to each property that we booked, and ended up with upgrades, bottles of champagne sent to the room, and other extra special perks from hotel staff.

65. Use your h otel’s shower cap to protect your toiletries from exploding.

Nervous about your liquids exploding in your toiletry bag on the flight home? Wrap them in the shower cap provided to you in the room. And if you don’t have a shower cap: use the plastic liner that comes with your ice bucket. 

66. Download the Revolut app.

The popular European banking app recently launched in the U.S., and it allows users to exchange currencies from 55,000+ surcharge-free ATMs nationwide. 

67. Seek itinerary inspiration through social media.

Use Instagram to inspire your itinerary. Browse through hashtags and geotags to see where people took gorgeous photos—and then go to those places! Alternatively, you can google things like “ The Best Instagram Spots in NYC ” or “ The Most Instagrammable Places in London ” for fun ideas.

68. Use AirHelp to get compensated for flight delays or cancelled flights.

We’ve all been there: you miss a connection because of a delayed flight, or your flight get inexplicably cancelled, and you know that the airline has to owe you some kind of compensation.

The problem is that actually getting what you’re owed can be a logistical nightmare that involves long wait times, endless phone calls, and unanswered emails. AirHelp essentially plays the middleman by acting on your behalf.

They do charge a fee (which is a percentage of what you’re ultimately compensated) but as someone who has used the service successfully, I can say that it is VERY much worth saving you the headache.

Plus, Airhelp knows exactly what you’re entitled to based on their expertise, so you’ll often end up getting more than you would have received on your own.

69. Do your souvenir research ahead of a trip.

One thing I always do before I travel is a bit of research about the most unique gifts and souvenirs to buy in the destination I’m heading to. Looking this up ahead of time might top you off to some really cool new boutiques, and it will also guarantee that you don’t end up at an airport gift shop wasting your money on a meaningless memento.

For example, this list of the best things to buy in Paris contains a ton of “hidden gems” within the city you might never have known about otherwise. There’s also something extremely satisfying about going on the hunt for a specific unique item—and then finding it! 

70. Keep a note in your phone filled with travel quotes .

For those times that you desperately want to post an Instagram photo, but you’re at a loss for a caption.

Did you find this list helpful? Are there any travel hacks you love that I didn’t include? Drop them in the comments below!

Thank you to nicole cueto aka @thecubancarrie for her contributions to this piece.

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If you’re traveling with an infant/toddler; bookmark, screenshot AND print the rules for taking things like breastmilk/formula/snacks through security as well as the policy about early boarding for families. It helps to be prepared for any hiccups. And even if you just fly once or twice a year with a child, get TSA Precheck. Your child under 12 can go through the line with you, which makes things SO much faster.

Lindsay Silberman

this is SUCH a good tip (and one i would never have thought of!) thanks for sharing!

I always get a seat on the plane forward of the wings. Any turbulence the plane encounters dieting the flight is less bumpy in the front half.

Charles Loes

these hacks help me a lot thanks for such guidance.

I always get a seat on the plane forward of the wings. Any turbulence the plane encounters during the flight is less bumpy in the front half.

Helen Gaskin

Really a complete guide has never seen such stuff there. I am all the way from Pinterest and your pin is best to attract anyone. And guide too.

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60 quotes about travel that will inspire your wanderlust.

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6 Space-Saving Hair Hacks To Jot Down Before Your Next Vacation

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You’ve had two places for your extra hair products to live all along! Simply slide a bottle of your favorite moisturizer or curl enhancer in to the soles of your shoes and voila: more space! However, make sure your products are wrapped in a Ziploc bag or some plastic beforehand to avoid any spillage. 

If you’re fiercely dedicated to a holy grail of products, try mixing your favorites together in travel size containers that won’t take up space in your carry-on. This will also save you a few steps when it’s time to style your hair. However, be sure to mix well since oil tends to separate from heavier products and keep your cocktail in a cool place after reaching your destination. 

Are you traveling with at least one other person? Take a moment to discuss what hair items you’ll be packing. If you discover that you’re bringing the same products, you can free up more space by divvying up your must-haves instead of leaving one person to sacrifice all of the space inside their suitcase.

Let dry shampoo be your best friend! No need to pack your favorite full size shampoos and conditioners when you have this must-have travel item. Not only does it save space; it’s also less likely to explode inside your suitcase.  

Leave your large, bulky flat iron at home and grab a mini flat iron to use whenever you hit the road! Mini Flat Irons are great for quick touch ups when you’re wearing a heated style. 

Between our combs, brushes, bobby pins, hair ties, turbans and any other hair accessory that needs to travel with us, accessories can go missing pretty quickly. So avoid your inevitable frantic search by placing everything into ….your scarf or shower cap! And if you want extra security, place your smallest items into a Ziploc bag beforehand.

Braided & Laid

The Best Vacation Hairstyles For Black Women, According To Travel Influencers

Plus, the travel hair tips (and products) they swear by.

When you’re trying to enjoy your vacation, the last thing you want to worry about is your hair. While Black hair is powerful and beautiful, our waves, curls, kinks, and coils do need extra love and attention; some of us have routines that consist of 10 or more products to care for our crowns. After deciding on a style to wear, there’s also the task of choosing which products and tools to pack to ensure that your hair not only looks how you want it to for the ‘gram, but also that it isn’t getting damaged by your vacation destination’s local climate, or from exposure to chlorine and salt water.

To gain some insight on the best vacation hairstyles for Black women to rock while traveling, I spoke with seven globe-trotting travel influencers who have gotten their on-the-go hair care routines down to a science. The consensus was that protecting your hair is paramount, but there are options beyond braids , along with game-changing tricks that your hair will love — no matter where in the world your travels take you.

Below, their go-to looks, genius hacks, and must-have TSA-friendly products .

Kellee Edwards: Trade Long Locks For A Short Pixie Cut

Kellee Edwards — host of Travel + Leisure ’s “Let’s Go Together” podcast and Travel Channel TV series “Mysterious Islands” — says due to her active and adventurous lifestyle of being a scuba diver, pilot, and explorer, “having short hair has proven to be incredibly easy for me to manage, while still having a cute style in the elements and on the road.”

Edwards has been traveling for over 10 years, and wasn’t finding anything that had a comprehensive, TSA-approved kit that could keep Black hair covered while traveling. As a result, she created the Onyx Hair Kit ( $85; onyxhairkit.com ), a customizable, travel-sized maintenance kit that allows you to put your own products in bottles that will make it past airport security. It also includes a satin pillowcase, portable blow dryer hood that attaches to any hotel dryer, comb, and mini flat iron.

For inexperienced travelers, Edwards’ top tip is to drink plenty of water — your hair will thank you. “It’s your best friend for your scalp” she says. “Also, never use the hotel shampoo and conditioner. It’s not the best for Black hair. If you have longer hair and are in water, put it in one braid, let it air dry, and then go wash and detangle after. Matted wet hair is never fun.”

Gabby Beckford: Keep A Scarf Handy

As an award-winning travel influencer and opportunity expert behind the blog Packs Light , Gabby Beckford has always loved changing her hairstyle every day — and it’s no different when she travels. “On a plane, I might wear big fluffy buns so I don’t get neck pain,” she says. “If it’s cold, dry air, I like to wear my hair in a ’fro for warmth. If it’s hot, humid, or dusty, I tie my hair back or wear a hair wrap for protection. I really do it all.”

Besides investing in a big bonnet for nighttime, Beckford shared another suggestion: “Always keep a scarf on you.” She adds that they’re a quick style savior while you’re traveling away from home. “Accessories are your friend,” she says. “On your most hopeless, frizzy, uncooperative curly hair day, adding in a few bobby pins, braiding down the front and letting the back go wild, tying on a beautiful scarf, or wrapping it all up in a wrap takes a curly traveler from feeling overwhelmed and stressed to ready for any adventure.”

Taylor Patrick: Always Pack What You Need

Taylor Patrick — a content creator, small business owner, advocate, and flight attendant — says to never skip out on packing the essentials. “Put it in travel-friendly packaging,” she says. “The hotel shampoos and blow dryers aren’t for our hair so this way, I always have what I need.” Patrick learned a long time ago that braids are it for vacation travel: “Trying to stay natural or maintain a fresh sew-in while on vacation is [hectic]. If your friends let you do this for a girls trip, get new friends,” she says.

Patrick also always packs her bonnet. “I have two extra in my suitcase because you will not catch me slipping and sleeping on trips without one!” she says. “If my hair is natural, straightened, or I have a sew-in or installment, I have that long, heatless [curling rod] thing to wrap my hair around and sleep so I’m not putting so much heat on my hair.”

Annette Richmond: Have Fun With It

Even when you’re jet-setting, it’s possible to take advantage of natural hair’s versatility. “I would consider myself a naturalista,” says content creator and founder of Fat Girls Traveling , Annette Richmond. “Over the years I have learned to braid my own hair, so box braids and individuals are my go-tos for traveling.” She also makes sure to keep a few wigs on deck. “As a content creator, I love to serve a look,” she says. “When I take my braids out, I switch between twist-out styles and my afro. Throwing on one of my favorite wigs spices up my options.”

Most importantly, Richmond says to have fun with it. “As Black women, our hair is political, whether we like it or not ,” she says. “So many of us feel pigeonholed into standards of beauty that aren't reflective of our heritage. Unfortunately, it is still legal to discriminate against us because of the way our hair naturally grows out of our head, so wearing fun colorful braids or bold and bright wigs is an act of rebellion.” She says to wear your hair however you feel comfortable, especially when traveling. Not feeling brave enough to wear color? Try some beads, gems, or shells. “I like adding fun accessories to my braids as well — it adds to the vibe,” she says.

Martinique Lewis: Protective Styles Are A Must

Digital creator, travel show host, and creator of ABC’s Travel Greenbook Martinique Lewis always opts for a protective style. Why? “It can stand the rain, the pool, the paint, the dust,” she says. “Faux locs or braids for the win.” Lewis has three clutch hair hacks for traveling. First: olive oil. “When your hair gets dry and you have no products, olive oil saves the day,” she say.

She also recommends the Onyx Hair Kit specifically for Black women on their travels. “All the bottles are TSA standard size and it's perfect for you to bring your favorite hair products,” she says. “Our hair is versatile, and so are the products we use. It sucks when we have to go the length of our travels without them because we don't have any travel bottles.”

In 2020 Lewis created the ABC Travel Greenbook so that travelers can connect with the African Diaspora in six out of seven continents. “I tell you where to get your locs twisted in Puerto Rico ( Racies ), where to get your hair braided in Israel ( KRasta ), and the beauty supply in Vienna ( Maya's ),” she says. The book is now an app , so you can have the new Greenbook at your fingertips — you can leave reviews for other users, and add businesses that you have used on your travels. An invaluable resource, it’s a game changer for Black hair care abroad. “We are better together, and Black people are everywhere. As travelers, we should know how to connect with them,” Lewis says.

Christina Jane: Opt For Braids, Twists, & Leave-In Conditioner

Travel writer Christina Jane’s go-to styles for traveling are almost always braids or twists because of how low-maintenance they are. With her travel itinerary, she often wakes up at 4 am and doesn’t get back until midnight. “The last thing I want to be worried about is what to do with my hair or having to set aside an extra one or two hours to style it in its natural form or manipulate a wig,” she says. “With braids and twists, the most I have to think about is if I will wear my hair up or down.”

Jane typically packs light with only a carry-on, restricting the number of products she is able to bring. She suggests buying TSA-friendly, three-ounce liquid bottles from a mass retailer like Walmart’s travel section, then filling those up with the gels and oils you already have at home. “I recently went on a four-day trip to Curaçao and brought a compact version of Tru EDGE Controller with me that didn't take up any space,” she says.

One hair struggle she has dealt with from traveling is noticing that her strands were extremely dry after taking out her braids or twists. “While traveling, I now use leave-in conditioners and creams to seal in moisture,” says Jane.

Tomiko Harvey: Pack A Silk Pillowcase & Plenty Of Conditioner

While Beyoncé-style “Lemonade braids” are a favorite of luxury content creator and founder of Passports & Grub Tomiko Harvey’s, she also suggests another travel hair tip: leaving your shampoo at home. “Co-washing is a healthier alternative while making your luggage lighter since you only pack conditioner,” she says.

Harvey’s go-to product to pack is from actor Taraji P. Henson’ s line, TPH By Taraji. “The Ultra Chill scalp treatment is made with aloe vera, biotin, and tea tree oil and it helps to calm an irritated scalp, especially after a day packed full of vacation excursions,” she says. She says keeping your hair moisturized is key, but bringing a satin pillowcase will help keep your coils fresh.

10 Travel Hair Hacks

Traveling can be an exciting adventure, but it often comes with the challenge of maintaining your hair on the go. Whether you are exploring new cities, relaxing on a beach, or embarking on a business trip, taking care of your hair shouldn't be a hassle. That is why our stylists at Roman K Salon have compiled a list of travel hair hacks to help you look your best while minimizing the time and effort spent on hairstyling. From packing the right products to embracing versatile hairstyles, these tips will ensure that your hair remains fabulous throughout your journey. So, lets dive into these travel hair hacks and get ready to jet-set with confidence! 1. Opt for a versatile hairstyle: Choose a hairstyle that can easily transition from day to night, such as a sleek ponytail, a messy bun, or braids. These styles can be quickly achieved and require minimal touch-ups throughout the day. 2. Pack travel-sized hair products: Invest in travel-sized containers and transfer your favorite hair products into them. This allows you to bring essential items without taking up too much space in your luggage. 3. Use dry shampoo: Dry shampoo is a great option for refreshing your hair between washes, especially when you are on the go. It absorbs excess oil and adds volume to your hair, making it look clean and refreshed.

4. Bring hair accessories: Pack a few hair accessories like headbands, scrunchies, or hairpins. They can be lifesavers when you want to quickly change up your hairstyle or add a touch of style to a simple look. 5. Embrace multi-purpose products: Look for hair products that offer multiple benefits. For example, a leave-in conditioner with UV protection can protect your hair from sun damage while providing hydration and detangling properties. 6. Carry a wide-toothed comb or a brush: These tools are handy for detangling your hair and maintaining your style. A wide-toothed comb is particularly useful for preventing breakage, especially if you have curly or textured hair.

7. Protect your hair while swimming: Before taking a dip in the pool or ocean, wet your hair and apply a leave-in conditioner or oil to create a barrier between your hair and the chlorinated or saltwater. This helps to minimize damage and keep your hair hydrated. 8. Pack a microfiber towel: Microfiber towels are lightweight, absorbent, and dry hair faster than regular towels. They also take up less space, making them ideal for travel. 9. Consider a travel-sized flat iron or curling iron: If you regularly style your hair with heat tools, investing in a travel-sized flat iron or curling iron can be convenient. They are compact and easy to carry, allowing you to maintain your desired hairstyle while on the go. 10. Protect your hair from the elements: Whether it's the sun, wind, or cold weather, your hair can be exposed to various environmental factors while traveling. Consider wearing a hat or using a scarf to protect your hair from excessive sun exposure or harsh winds.

By implementing these travel hair hacks, you can effortlessly maintain your locks while on the go. Remember, the key is to be prepared and to prioritize convenience without compromising on style. With these tricks up your sleeve, you'll be able to enjoy your travels with fabulous hair that looks and feels amazing. So, pack your bags, embrace your wanderlust,and let your hair be an effortless reflection of your travel spirit! Bon voyage!

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The Best Hair Products to Travel With, According to Stylists

Don't leave home without these.

Traveling is one of life’s great pleasures. But trying to have good hair on the go is about as challenging as getting through the TSA line these days. While we would all like to bring our entire product arsenal, travel and suitcase size restrictions make that impossible. So going with travel-size and double-duty products will help ensure your hair looks good when taking all those cute vacation pics. Here are the hair care products the pros like to take along with them. 

1. K18 Hair Mask

Celebrity hairstylist Anthony Pazos is a big fan of traveling with K18 Molecular Repair Hair Mask ($75). The bottle is small, the product is highly concentrated, and best of all, you aren’t supposed to use conditioner with it, so it’s one less thing to bring. “Hands down, the best product to travel with is the K18 Mask. I like it because it helps repair brittle ends and prevents any breakage.”

2. Virtue Travel-Sized Shampoo and Mask

Skip the big, leaky bottles and travel smart. Sharon Dorram, celebrity colorist and owner of Sharon Dorram Color at Sally Hershberger , tells me, “I wish all companies would think to make travel sizes because it is truly the hardest part of packing. I always travel with travel-size Virtue shampoo and Restorative Treatment Mask as my conditioner.”

Mason Pearson

3. Mason Pearson Pocket Mixture Brush

  Jennifer Nast , senior stylist at Sharon Dorram Color at Sally Hershberger, tells me she likes to travel light with a Mason Pearson Pocket Brush . “When you are on the go, you need a good brush to keep the fly always at bay. Brushing can also help to distribute the oil from your scalp. “

4. A Claw Clip

Easily and cheaply purchased, Nast suggests traveling with a claw clip ($9) to quickly style your hair. “It's an easy way to elevate a look, put up hair after the beach, and day-two travel hair."

5. T3 Compact Travel Flat Iron

Who wants to lug around a big, heavy flat iron? Nast recommends using the T3 Singlepass Compact ($89) model instead. “So cute and tiny! Refresh your blow dry or simply touch up your hairline. A quick fix when you are on the go.” 

6. Phyto 9 Nourishing Day Cream

Looking for a double-duty product that can work on wet and dry hair? The Phyto 9 Nourishing Day Cream ($29) is a great choice according to Matthew Monzon , celebrity hair stylist. “It can be used on wet hair before blow drying to give you what you need to help control frizz and give you amazing shine. Or, as a finishing product to help give some texture to your hair. The big plus is if you're flying, you don’t need to put it in your checked luggage since it’s under the limit.”

7. Curlsmith Moisture Memory Reactivator

It's specially important to have the right products for curly hair. Sharley Butcher , textured hair care specialist and lead educator at Curlsmith tells me, "Wherever I go, I pack my haircare essentials in travel size, so I don't need to compromise luggage space. Curlsmith Moisture Memory Reactivator is perfect for refreshing my curls and bringing them back to life between wash days.”

8. Luisant6 Hair Primer

Whether you’re exploring a city or lying at the beach, celebrity hair and makeup artist Pamela Brogardi likes to use Hair Primer by Luisant6 ($24). “This product is CBD-infused and a hydrating leave-in spray. The hydrating bonding leave-in spray reduces blow drying time and transforms texture resulting in a sleek, glass-like shine. Spray before hitting the beach and after to keep your hair looking beach fabulous!”

9. Oribe Mini Gold Lust Dry Shampoo 

Dry shampoo is great when traveling, but bringing one of those massive cans is a big no. Brogardi likes Mini Gold Lust Dry Shampoo by Oribe ($23). “Dry shampoo helps to absorb excess oil and refresh your hair between washes, making it an essential product for maintaining clean and voluminous hair on the go. The mini size is convenient for packing and adheres to airline travel regulations.”

10. Epres Bond Repair Treatment

Damage and frizz can be frustrating, which is why stylist Bradley Leake likes Epres Bond Repair Treatment ($34). “It keeps hair smooth and frizz-free while also fighting damage. It is also super easy to take with you as you can bring just the vial of concentrate and bottle in your travel bag,” he explains. “One other hack I recommend to clients is to spray this on before going on a plane or traveling so that you can treat as you go, then wash out and have gorgeous shiny hair once you reach your destination.”

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Travel Hacks: How To Pack Just the Hair Products You Need

So you’re finally taking that trip that you always wanted. The clothes are packed, your flight is booked and you’re all set to go… except for the fact that you have NO idea what to bring for your natural hair. You don’t want to bring all your products in your luggage (because there’s a big chance they’re going to confiscate those bigger bottles) and you don’t want to bring just any product. You’re aiming for products that give you the best hair without taking time away from your travel experiences.

Don’t panic, we’ve got the basic rundown of what you’ll need to bring during your travels so you don’t have to fret wondering how to keep your hair on point! What styles are you going for? What look are you trying to achieve? A protective style ? Updo? Twist out? Plan out the styles you’re planning on rocking during your trip and go from there. The best tip to packing light when it comes to natural hair products is to keep the styles you’re going for simple.

Natural Hair Hack #1

Bring your products in smaller travel sized bottles. This way, they don’t get taken by TSA and you have just enough for your trip.

Make sure you keep your looks simple; focus on twist outs, letting your loose and having a fro or if you have time, getting a protective style done.

Natural Hair Hack #2

Bring a great leave-in conditioner ! A great leave-in conditioner is always a great travel companion for your natural hair because it’s quick, easy and depending on which type of leave in conditioner used, its great for fixing up your look for the day or night. Don’t forget a small amount of your shampoo and any curl definition product; these are also essential for creating phenomenal looks and keeping them that way.

Once decided on your hairstyles , focus more on the basics. What tools are you using for your hair? Think about the tools needed for your hair on a day-to-day basis and bring your best tools that are quick and easy to use.

Natural Hair Hack #3

Don’t forget to pack your wide toothcomb, a bristle brush and a satin hair cap. The best way to hold these tools without taking up too much space is to buy a jewelry holder; one that has a hook on it. These cases can hold not just jewelry but any hair tools you have. The great thing about it is that with the hook it can hang from any door, so it doesn’t take up space in your luggage and in your hotel room.

Finally, one can never forget to pack essential oils either. With essential oils, you’re not only able to keep up with your amazing hairstyles, but give your hair a little TLC. Don’t skimp out on giving your hair some quick love while on vacation and bring a few essential oils with you that will make your hair shine and stand out.

Natural Hair Hack #4

Buy small stylist bottles with the nozzles and long necks as well as stoppers or tops on them; this way, you can evenly distribute your oils through your hair without worrying about spillage. Try and bring your more important oils; ones that you know will do the most good in such a short time for your hair.

Whether a small trip or a long vacation, travelling can be difficult for some. However, travelling doesn’t have to be so hard on our hair. Take these tips and use your best judgment to bring along your favorite products and tools so you can continue to have selfie-worthy hair long after you’ve left the house.

• Latest Posts

Francis Smith, a college graduate from Radford University, has been natural for a few years. She worked as a visual merchandiser at Macy's and has always been into fashion. Her blog A Bundle of Curls combines her life being natural and her love for fashion.

• 4 Travel Hacks for Natural Hair: Making It Work Anywhere!
• Managing Your Natural Hair Through Years 1, 2 & 3
• Fun in the Sun: 3 Curly Hairstyles to Wear on the Beach

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The Hair Care Products Our Editors Never Travel Without

By Meaghan Kenny

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

When your luggage is limited to a carry-on or weekender bag , every item counts. And when you’re experiencing a new destination, be it gloomy London or the white-sand beaches in St. Lucia , every moment counts. That’s why it’s important to have a few tried-and-true hair care products you can rely on to cut down your packing list and the time spent styling while on a trip. Since we all have different hair types and needs, we asked a dozen of our editors and favorite frequent travelers to share their own holy-grail hair products. They came back with recommendations for everything from double-duty balms to anti-frizz treatments and easy-to-use thermal brushes. Below, 17 of the best hair products to travel with, from trusted brands like Ouai, Biosilk, Ceremonia, and more.

Leave-in conditioners

• UV protectants  
• Shampoo and conditioner bars  
• More hair care favorites  

Leave-in conditioner is essential for me when I’m traveling, as I tend to plan adventurous trips that put my hair through the ringer— surfing , camping , hiking , and long international flights that dry everything out—so I go heavy on thick conditioning products that can counteract all that exposure. Swedish brand Sachajuan makes products that fit the bill, and its leave-in conditioner (applied to wet/towel-dried hair) noticeably improved my hair during a busier-than-ever travel season; I swear it also extended the time I was able to go before needing a haircut. The bottle doesn’t meet carry-on size requirements at 8.4 ounces, but it’s liquid enough that you can easily pour it into a reusable travel-size bottle . — Megan Spurrell , senior editor

Give me Biosilk or give me death. No, really. There hasn’t been a hair-washing day in the last 15 years in which I, owner of a significant head of the stuff, haven’t used this saving grace product—even when I go to the hair salon. I apply a dime-sized dollop of the serum to my mane once it’s had about 30 minutes to towel dry, and almost immediately, it reduces my natural frizz by a factor of 10, rendering my hair shiny and healthy even once I begin to lay on the heat tools . Ordinarily, I draw my dose from an extra-large bottle, but I always remember to bring this nifty travel-size version along when I travel. Bonus: It softens dry hands, too, and isn’t sticky or goopy in the least. — Betsy Blumenthal , features and franchises editor

I’m in the process of regrowing my hair from the buzz cut I’ve had for the past two years and I’ve fallen right back into step with a product I began using a few years ago and am a big fan of: Pattern by Tracee Ellis Ross’s leave-in conditioner. It works well as a conditioner and it’s great for detangling my 4C coils when I’m between styles or traveling on assignment and needing to do a wash-and-go. It doesn’t flake, clump, or leave white streaks in my hair. The Pattern shampoo, conditioner, and my beloved leave-in come in a travel-friendly size, which is, well, perfect! — Tariro Mzezewa , contributo r

It's a 10 is one brand I truly swear by. I always spritz on its standard leave-in product after I wash my hair to help with shine, and I'll use it as needed to help with flyaways and frizz throughout the day—needless to say, the travel-size bottle is a must after sitting in a staticky plane seat for six hours. — Caitlin Morton , contributor

I'm loving this duo from Ouai—honestly, they're making all of my favorite products right now. I keep my hair in a protective style 99 percent of the time, but still find it important to condition my braids for maximum shine and to avoid a dry scalp. They also serve as a heat protectant for when I do blowouts. — Candace Molatore , contributor

UV protectants

When I’m spending a day in the sun, I cautiously lather my face and body in sunscreen, but I somehow always forget about my scalp. I regret this as soon as my scalp starts to peel and flake. I’m not a big hat wearer, so last summer I decided to try Supergoop’s Poof mineral part powder. The consistency is similar to baby powder or other dry shampoos I’ve used and it actually protects my scalp from the sun. It’s great for beach days and is compact enough to fit in my Dopp kit . The only con: The powder color is a bit orangey (I lightly massage it into my scalp which helps the color fade). — Meaghan Kenny , associate commerce editor

I’m a broken record on Ceremonia’s products—I love every one I’ve tried, they work like magic and smell amazing, and I think the brand’s mission to bring ancestral Latinx haircare traditions to all is worth celebrating. In addition to its leave-in conditioner , the UV protectant is crucial when I’m traveling. I spray it on my hair before long days in the sun (in an ideal world, that’s every day on every trip), and even pack it in my beach bag to reapply after swimming. I use a little Tangle Teezer to work it through. My hair feels softer throughout the day, and I always get compliments on the scent. — M.S.

Shampoo and conditioner bars 

I love how they smell, first and foremost. They also make my hair feel soft and moisturized, without weighing it down. I originally got them for camping trips , but I loved them so much that I just started tossing them into my suitcase for all other types of trips, too. I don't usually check my luggage, so the containers make them super easy and convenient to travel with in a carry-on. — Sarah Kuta , contributor

I always travel with HiBar's Moisturize conditioner bar and Moisturize shampoo bar. I'm in the ocean a lot, so I like to have a hydrating shampoo and conditioner on hand. Solid shampoo bars have a concentrated, waterless formula, so they're a great, eco-friendly alternative to traveling with liquid products in plastic containers. I usually pop them in HiBar's Travel Pouch , which easily fits into my carry-on and keeps the bars secure and dry. — Julia Eskins , contributor

More hair care favorites

After years of trying and failing to find a strong-hold cream that tames stubbornly frizzy flyaways without looking greasy, I recently stumbled across Bumble and Bumble’s Sumotech Lo-Shine cream in a sample bag and now can’t go anywhere without the stuff. It stays in my purse for ample ponytail touch ups, whether I’m in my home city or jetting to the humid Caribbean —where it truly worked miracles on my insanely frizz-prone curls so I could (for once) forget about what my hair was doing and enjoy my trip. A little goes a very long way, so it’s travel-friendly even as a full-size jar at under two ounces. — Shannon McMahon , destinations editor

Perfect hair day is right. I rely on a high-performing mini dry shampoo like this one from Living Proof to save me from having to rewash my hair every single day when I’m traveling. A little bit goes a long way—just a few sprays around my scalp and a quick bit of blending with my hands is all it takes to refresh my hair and eliminate excess oil. It smells divine and fits in my small toiletry bag. —M.K.

More often than not, I travel with check-in luggage, so bringing along all my hair products is rarely an issue for me. But when I need to economize and keep things light, I'm not afraid to say that I use Aesop hand balms like this one to style my hair in a pinch. Of course, I say this with short-hair privilege, so your mileage may vary. But they smell great and do the double-duty of moisturizing my mitts while I'm at it. — Matt Ortile , contributor

I can’t trust hotel conditioners. Some of it makes my strands so limp that my hair ties will fall off. Supermilk keeps my wavy-straight hair’s texture just the way I like it, and strangers compliment me on the key lime pie scent. — Alexandra Sanidad, research director

Sometimes, there just isn’t the time (or accommodations) for a proper shower on the road. My trusty hack for the past few summers has been this super affordable pre-braided headband that gives me a cute updo in less than five minutes and transforms my limp, flat hair into a chic style. You just slip it on over your head, tuck in your surrounding hair into the band, secure with a few bobby pins, and voila, you look like an IG influencer (or, at least, not a showerless swamp monster). Plus, it's lightweight and takes up essentially zero bag space. — Lara Kramer , global director of audience development, social, and analytics

Rather than bringing a slew of styling tools, I always travel with the Harry Josh Pro Tools Magnesium Round Thermal Brush. This lightweight round brush smooths frizz and gives me a salon-worthy blowout, even if the hotel room hair dryer isn't the highest quality. I like that it heats up quickly, so I can dry my hair faster, which is always a bonus on a busy trip. —J.E.

• WORK WITH GABBY
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Curly hair travel tips for your next vacation (from a 3C girly)

If you search on Pinterest for “curly hair travel tips” the Top 10 results are tips from blonde girls with wavy hair. Or better yet, blonde girls with straight hair offering to teach you how to use a curling wand into a carry on.

As a black girl with curly hair this is  indescribably frustrating .

The black hair care business is a  2.5 billion dollar industry  yet limited resources exist for us—the population with the curliest hair—and we sit on page 4 of Google. So, I assembled this definitive guide of anything we could possibly ever want to know about traveling with curly hair.

Of course anyone is welcome in this space to learn and take any inspiration for their own hair care, but know that the products and techniques used  are from my personal experiences as a  multiracial traveler  with African heritage, and are intended for travelers with really curly hair.

You can reference and save the entire list of products mentioned in this article  here .

This post may have affiliate links. Meaning if you buy something using them, I get a small % for recommending it. It won't change the price for you and it's a super easy and nice way to say thanks for the work I did creating this 🙂 Cool? Cool.

Know Your Fro: Do A Hair Assessment

Knowing as much information as possible about your hair is essential in being able to correctly care for it  especially  when traveling on planes, trains, and automobiles.

Identifying your  hair type , knowing your hair’s tendencies, and knowing your own hair habits and common styles can give a lot of insight into how you decide to manage your hair on trips.

Hair Type:  3C

Hair Tendencies:

• Fine, dense hair
• Does not respond well to oils
• Needs creams and waxs
• Bleached, colors

Hair Care Habits:

• Hair is usually worn out and in a fro
• Curly bangs
• Almost daily detangling with water in the back 🥲
• Minimal heat straightening

Doing this analysis on your own hair and habits will help you understand your hair better and adjust the following tips for your own needs.

Packing Your Hair Products

When traveling I usually bring a detangler, a leave-in, a serum, and a gel—I’ll get into more details on these later.

To bring these on a plane, they must be in TSA Approved containers and follow their  3-1-1 rule . meaning they must be clear plastic bottles 3.4oz  or less, and placed inside of a clear 1-quart sized plastic bag.

I bought  carry-on approved plastic bottles  on Amazon and reuse them every single time I travel now.

If you find you’ve forgotten to pack or run out of a product while you’re traveling, don’t panic. If you can’t live without it, look up the ingredients of the product and see if you can DIY it. Jojoba oil, coconut oil, argan oil, and other products are common and can usually be found in some form all over the world.

How I style my curls while traveling

You should know early on that I am simply not a product snob.

I don’t discriminate between L’Oreal and salon quality products, whatever works for the best price is what I’m gonna use. So if I recommend a pricy hair product it’s either because I truly cannot function without it or because it will literally last up to a year.

Again, you can get the entire list of recommended products  here  on Amazon.

My daily go-to curly 3C travel routine

For my signature “wash n go” curly fro…

• Cleansing shampoo:
• Finish with a repairing conditioner like Olaplex No. 8 Bond Intense Moisture Mask or K18 leave-in molecular repair hair mask. wet I’ll let it dry 25-50% of the way before I begin to style it. Hotel towels are often rough and can tear delicate hair, so I recommend bringing your own  microfiber towel . I then use  Shea Moisture Extra Moisture Detangler  and the  Shea Moisture Curl Enhancing Smoothie  and finger comb my hair to remove any huge knots. All the while making sure my bangs are separate from the rest of my hair.
• For me, paddle brushes rip my hair the least and helps define the curls
• When using the paddle brush I split my head in half from temple-to-temple horizontally so that my curls can have definition but also bounce once it dries.
• Use a  Denman Brush  from about halfway down the hair shaft to the ends to help clump my curls together (I separate the clumps when fully dried!)
• I grab my bangs and separate them into three horizontal rows across my head. Starting with the row closest to my face, I put a little of the Curl Enhancing Smoothie on the hair and finger curl individual curls. I probably get 4-6 curls across the bottom row. Repeat for the second and third row.
• Then I rub a quarter-sized amount of my  Garnier Fructis Style Curl Scrunch Controlling Gel  into my hands and scrunch my bangs and the end of my hair. I love this gel because it never gives me crunchy ramen hair and still holds the definition when I separate my curls.
• I like to air dry my hair but if I’m in a rush or its freezing cold outside I’ll use a  diffuser  on warm heat and low pressure to gently dry it, starting from my scalp and then scrunching the ends with it. This can take 20-25 minutes.
• Once it’s completely dried I’ll separate any huge chunks of curls around my head, and selectively separate any of the finger curls I did for my bangs. And BAM, that’s my daily look!

Curly Girl Travel Hair Style Ideas

I’ve found that curly bangs give me a lot more versatility with my curly styles, especially when traveling! No shame, I cut them myself with only kiddie scissors and  this YouTube video  for guidance, and they turned out pretty well I think.

The photo to the right I took just seconds after I cut them.

This  super-simple style also works if you’ll be on a plane so the bulk of your hair is on top of your head and won’t make laying your head back uncomfortable.

Low Fro Pony

The low ponytail can is tried and true. This style is great for a high humidity environment because you can slick down the top with gel and a  boar bristle brush . The brush linked is my favorite because it’s ethically harvest boar bristles and no animals are hurt in the making of the brush.

$20 is a lot for a brush, but it’s small and easily packed for travel, and lasts forever. Not to mention, you can’t have elaborate cute curls every day. This brush is essential for those hopeless moments when you just want to lay your baby hairs and just not look crazy.

High Fro Pony tail

Same concept as the low-fro pony tail with much more attention-grabbing look. Your hair will look huge but it will be off of your neck in the heat, and this style is primed for a cute headband or some long earrings to accessorize.

Half-Up, Half-Down

Slick back the top (leave your bangs out if you have them) and let the rest fro free. This style can show that you put in a little effort and lower your volume from  huge  to huge. Pair with a chunky headband or some cute barrettes.

Chunky Headbands Save Lives

All hail the chunky headband. If I’m in a remote jungle in Thailand or backpacking trip in Iceland there’s chance that I haven’t fully brushed my hair in a day or two. Chunky headbands are a great way to style a huge fro, a messy bun, or your cute braids. It can add a lot of color or pattern to your outfit as well.

“Just Shove All It In A Turban”

Like I said, curly hair isn’t as luxurious and easy breezy beautiful as we often make it seem. Sometimes your curls just do not cooperate, or you just don’t have the time to try. A  turban or head wrap  will be your saving grace on those red-eye flight, overslept your ziplining tour, rats nest, the-back-is-definitely-matted days.

Pull back your hair and twist as flat to your head as you can and use  spiral bobby pins  (a curly MUST I tell you) to hold it together. Buy a couple in different colors so that you can rock them with any look. A turban is a great travel hair accessory because you can wear it in tropical weather with a dress or colder weather with a coat and scarf.

Double Top Buns

I was  rockin’  this style  in Tokyo  and don’t even try to tell me different!

Try this look if you feel the want to stand out and have a unique sense of style, or just want to mix up your Instagram feed.

Half Braids

I like to separate my hair in half and basically braid the front down the sides along my hairline and let the back flow free. But you could do cornrows on the front half, two big braid down the back into open pig tails, braids into the Half Up Half Down. There are literally infinite options.

Experiment with some ideas and see what works. Even a few braids can give your hair some style that shows effort, and at least restrain a bulk of it, and those damn baby hairs.

Pros & cons of protective styles

I am not an expert in this department. Though I did a brief stint with clip-in extensions in high school, growing up neither of my parents introduced my sister and I to supplemental hair or braids. Thus, we had to suffer with our sun bleached, damaged, chemically relaxed hair. I wish they would have because when maintained correctly these protective styles are perfect for letting your curly hair rest and can cut down on your styling time when abroad. The most common protective styles are wigs, extensions, weaves and braids.

Because I lack expertise on this subject, I’m drawing on the experiences of few other curly-haired traveler, but mostly  Lauren  of  Ciao Chicago .

If you love yourself… never attempt to get a weave the day before your trip.

Make sure to schedule installments a week or so before your trip so that your hair has time to loosen up and you have some ideas on how you will style it.

If you’re an active or adventurous traveler straight hair may be harder to maintain, especially against the natural elements. Choosing a curly or wavy bundle requires less styling and their shape will hold better, and may require you not to have to worry about blending your own hair while on the road. Though make sure to avoid any heavy products that will make your weave wear too fast between washes.

Same advice for traveling with a weave if your extensions are glued or sewn in.

If you are traveling with clip-ins, make sure you bring extra  clips  and  needle and thread  in case you need to fix any loose clips, and  tape  for a temporary fix. Also make sure that when you’re not wearing your extensions they’re in a travel case that won’t ruin them.

My favorite hack for clip-ins, weaves, and wigs is to get a plastic box used for markers and pencils to store them in. If you can’t find one, these  hard cosmetic cases  are amazing.

The easiest style for an active or long-term traveler. You can go to the beach and just take off the wig and wash both it and your real hair.

Carry multiple wigs when you travel–2 or 3 for trips shorter than a week, 3 or 4 for longer—so you never have to be in a sticky situation where the one you have falls off on that moped ride and now you’re screwed.

Lauren says that braids and twists have a lot of variety in terms of style (Marley twists, Senegalese twists, goddess, braids, Ghana braids, etc), and leave access to the scalp for cleaning and moisturizing. Not to mention, they can last up to 6 weeks, which is great for an extended trip abroad.

Crochet braids are great for travel as they don’t require much skill—just the hair and some YouTube videos—and can last a travelista up to 3 weeks.

➰ TIP: Baseball caps + braids ≠ work. Curly hair in general. Buy a  cute visor  for some sun protection and to help hold that heavy braid bun off up when it’s hot.

To Straighten, or not to straighten?

In my journey to healthy curls I’ve been careful to rarely, if ever, put heat on my hair.

But unlike many curly traveling beauties I have not tabooed heat completely. Just because we’re curly doesn’t mean we’re dead. In moderation and with extreme care, straightening your hair does not have to mean heat damage and breakage and can make for beautiful and maintainable styles when traveling.

If I do straighten my hair it’s because the country that I’m going to has

•   a low humidity index at the time , and/or
• it’s winter .

I straightened my hair before I went to the  Republic of Georgia ,  The Netherlands , and  Sweden  but would have been wasting my time if I had before my trips to  Colombia ,  Thailand , or  Sri Lanka .

High heat + high humidity + tropical weather = …heck no .

There’s no point in straightening my hair if I’m just going to get off of the plane and sweat out my blow out because of the extreme heat or humidity or if I have plans to go swimming at the beach in the first few days that I land there.

Plus, if I’ve planned on having straightened hair on this trip I may not have brought all or enough of my curly products to maintain a curly style. An unexpected change of hair plans could have a devastating effect on my hairs health (and my ability to be in photos).

Low heat + low humidity + no water in sight = yaaas!

However, if it’s cold or wintry it’s usually in my benefit to have my hair be straight so that at least for a while I don’t have to get my hair wet every day to style it, and with the low humidity the style could last 3-6 days.

With straight hair you may have to bring less liquid products but you’ll be trading it for a styling tools. Bring a  mini-flat iron  for touch ups and leave the big one at home.

My Must-Have Straight Hair Hacks

To avoid the a bicep tear and 3 hours it usually takes me to straighten mine, I usually go to my local  Paul Mitchell School  to get it done “professionally”. I use quotation marks because as it’s a hair school your stylist is a student. And while it may take them 4-5 hours to straighten your hair, the professional products they use (that  Awapuhi product line , PHEW) and the amazing price of $30 for a quality results, I don’t complain.

If I do straighten my hair it’s always with  CHI Iron Guard Heat Protectant  to protect from heat damage, as the key to smooth straight hair is a  blow dryer  and  flat iron  with extremely high heat, around 400°F. Trust me, high heat the first time locks in the style and reduces the need for touch-ups later.

Once I’ve landed in my vacation location I swear by  Paul Mitchell’s Super Skinny Serum  as the ultimate frizz control weapon and to keep my hair soft and moisturized. One or two pumps is more than enough to coat all of my hair so even though it’s slightly expensive this product lasts forever.

Of course the true key to long-lasting straightened hair is wrapping it at night. In my case, I either use a  silk bonnet  or the same head wrap I use to make my turban.

My Arch Enemy:  The Perm

One technique you will  never  see me advocate for are  chemical relaxers , also known as a perm. For most of my childhood my parents did not know how to manage my curls, and like many parents with black children turned to chemical relaxers. This resulted in dry, chemically damaged hair (and then heat damaged to maintain it), chemical burns on my scalp and neck, and a lifetime of self-confidence work to love my hair the way it grows out of my head.

If you do feel like you can’t handle your hair at its level of curl consider a  Brazilian Blow Out  or other  keratin treatments  which can temporarily loosen your curls or completely straighten your hair.

These treatments can last 3-6 months and are healthy for your hair as they coat and lock the follicle like straight jacket instead of breaking its bones like a chemical relaxer. Get these treatments every 6 months or try out one of the protective styles mentioned above for long-term maintenance.

Navigating Airport Security and Those Touchy TSA Agents

Curly women (and men) having their hair groped and prodded during airport security is a common occurrence. While I understand the premise of it, it doesn’t make it any less invasive or agitating.

Unfortunately, part of traveling while curly hair is putting up with everyone else being super jealous of you (Kidding. Maybe.) So here are a few tips to make it easier.

Have them  3-1-1 rule  approved before you try to go through security. Then, make sure you’re carrying them in your purse and not zipped away in your suitcase. This way you can take them out, plop them into a security container for the x-ray, a minimizing time spent. I’ve also found labeling products “conditioner”, “shampoo”, “lotion”, etc. can keep them from stopping you to ask what is in each container.

The Dreaded Pat Down

Oh lawd, here we go. If you have big braids, dread locks, a weave, a wig, a fro, or any type of style that raises your hair an inch above your head, just assume you’re going to have your hair pat down and save yourself the stress. I truly believe that 90% of TSA agents are normal people just doing their job, but that 10% are the ones that cause the horror stories and the need for you to know our rights.

If you are taken aside for further screening of your hair,  you have the right to request that the TSA agent puts on fresh set of gloves .

If they refuse or are being rude,  you have the right to request a supervisor and/or request a private screening accompanied by a family member or friend . Do not go with them alone.

If you have any problems, please make sure a family member or you is documenting. Have a family member record as much of the encounter as possible, and take the name and ID number of as many agents as you can. Sometimes them knowing that you are paying attention and aren’t complacent can keep them from unnecessarily escalating a situation.

Global Entry/TSA Precheck, i.e. Security Clout

Save yourself some of the headache and get Global Entry if you’re able. It’s included with many credit cards these days, and less than one month ago I received mine complimentary of my  Chase Sapphire Reserve card .

It really changed my life. Now I arrive at the airport 30 minutes before my flight begins boarding, have a minimal line, don’t have to take off my shoes or jacket, and breeze on through. Having TSA Precheck doesn’t make you immune to further searches or having your braids groped, but it can drastically decrease the chance of it happening because of your security clout.

Summary of My Must-Have Curly Products

You can  save the complete list of products  here  and reference it whenever you need to.

Curly Styling Products

• Shea Moisture’s Extra Moisture Detangler  https://amzn.to/2AHAKI4
• Shea Moisture Curl Enhancing Smoothie  https://amzn.to/2jXKB3D
• Garnier Fructis Style Curl Scrunch Controlling Gel  https://amzn.to/2VOBHr0
• Strengthen & Restore Leave-In Conditioner  https://amzn.to/2sss6bH
• Literally anything from the Paul Mitchell Awapuhi Product Line  https://amzn.to/2D9gd0N

Curly Styling Tools

• Microfiber Towel  https://amzn.to/2AHV6kA
• Denman Brush  https://amzn.to/2RPXK1a
• Soft Paddle Brush  https://amzn.to/2Ch9gZO
• Boar Bristle Hair Brush (Cruelty Free)  https://amzn.to/2SSnesj 
• Silk Bonnet  https://amzn.to/2SZBMpK
• Hard Cosmetic Case  https://amzn.to/2SR7pC4
• Wig/Extension Clips  https://amzn.to/2D8y3RA

Curly Hair Accessories

• Chunky Headbands  https://amzn.to/2Ijzdh9
• Cute Visor  https://amzn.to/2rJVkSM
• Turban/Head Wrap  https://amzn.to/2M74kLE
• Spiral Bobby Pins  https://amzn.to/2ChVh61

Straightening Styling Products

• CHI Iron Guard Heat Protectant  https://amzn.to/2AUbu1x
• Paul Mitchell Super Skinny Serum  https://amzn.to/2RNHgXt

Straightening Styling Tools

• KIPOZI Professional Hair Straightener  https://amzn.to/2SSvngl
• Silver Bird Conair Pro Hair Dryer  https://amzn.to/2spdjij
• Mini Travel Sized Flat Iron  https://amzn.to/2VPwcZ3

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Gabby Beckford

Gabby is a multi-awardwinning creator. She is a full-time travel influencer, Gen Z travel marketing expert, and public speaker. You'll find her featured in the likes of Good Morning America, National Geographic, CNNTravel, Forbes, Travel+Leisure, and even the TEDx stage.

Housing Options as a Digital Nomad: Where do you live?

Your next budget winter getaway for snow and hot springs: southern idaho.

Hair Romance

The Best Hair Blog - with tutorials for curly hairstyles and more

Travel Hair – 5 Hotel Hairdryer Hair Hacks

September 13, 2016 By Hair Romance 11 Comments

Hate those hotel hairdryers? Me too!

Here’s how to cope with those hotel hairdryers with these easy and quick travel hair hacks.

Click here if you can’t see the video above

I recently filmed this while in Borneo for Mr & Mrs Romance  and I encountered one of the worst hotel hairdryers ever. It was attached to the wall with the smallest cable. It only worked while you pushed the switch and it felt a bit like someone breathing on you. If I tried to dry my hair completely, it would have taken hours. And the results would still be terrible.

I hope these tips helped and I’d love to hear any travel hair hacks you use when you’re away!

October 5, 2016 at 5:54 am

I only travel light with handluggage wherever I go and for however long I go. When I go to warm places, I don’t bring a hairdryer and just let my curls air dry. For colder areas I actually bought a travelling hair dryer that’s super tiny and and also comes with a super tiny diffuser – because I cannot use a hair dryer on my curls without a diffuser. I was so surprised by how much power that tiny thing has, it only takes a little more time to dry my hair than with my “big” hair dryer.

October 5, 2016 at 9:57 am

Which travel dryer do you use Yasz?

September 27, 2016 at 6:23 pm

The tip on drying just the front of your hair is gold. This just saved me from bringing my own hairdryer anywhere.

September 24, 2016 at 12:10 am

Thanks for the tips! I’ve always relied on hair dryers in the hotels during my travel, basically because I’m a light traveller. So I usually get to just use what’s available, and boy, they sometimes are a struggle!

September 17, 2016 at 4:08 am

I love these tips! Good idea to start in the front. Thanks 🙂 I always pack my hair straightener! I wouldn’t be able to live without it on vacation!

September 18, 2016 at 11:32 am

Thanks Tanya! Your hair straightener is super versatile when you travel 🙂

September 16, 2016 at 3:49 am

I love you, but your tips for using a hotel hair dryer seem like they are basic common sense tips for people with curly hair–use a brush, use product–and then #4 and #5…bring your own? air dry? That’s not a hack for a hotel hair dryer! I feel like you were REALLY stretching for content here.

September 16, 2016 at 9:41 am

haha fair call. Maybe I should have kept it to 3 🙂 But sometimes common sense isn’t all that common xx

September 15, 2016 at 6:26 am

Love the tip about just drying the front of your hair – I’ll remember that one for when I’m in Bali in a few weeks time! x

September 15, 2016 at 7:22 pm

Thanks lovely! I do this trick even when I’m at home as it’s a real time saver x

September 14, 2016 at 7:41 pm

Hair care and styling during travel is always challenging. Love your tips!

xo, Abby of My Hair Care

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3 Hair Elastic Travel Hacks That Will Solve All Your Problems

Shannon McMahon

Editor Shannon McMahon is always planning her next trip and often writing in her travel journal. Follow her on Twitter @shanmcmahon_ and on Instagram @shanmcmahon .

Shannon joined SmarterTravel in 2015. A former news reporter, she's lived in the south of Spain, spotted elephants in Sri Lanka, gone spelunking in the Caribbean, hiked Jordan's Petra Basin, interviewed Sao Paulo's Michelin-Star chefs, and explored China via bullet train. Travel trends, news oddities, and her visits to up-and-coming destinations are some of her favorite things to write about.

Her stories have also appeared online on USA Today, The Sun, Huffington Post, Business Insider, blog.TripAdvisor.com, Boston.com, and more. Her educational background is in journalism, art history, gender studies, Spanish, and film. She's been quoted as an expert travel source by CNBC, People.com, MarketWatch, The Washington Post, USA Today, and more.

The Handy Item I Always Pack : "Plenty of extra thick hair elastics. They tame my frizzy curls and come in handy in a surprising number of packing and hotel dilemmas."

Ultimate Bucket List Experience : "Climbing (yes, climbing, it's steep!) the Great Wall of China before it's gone."

Travel Motto : "Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and narrow-mindedness." - Mark Twain

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat : "Window, of course."

Email Shannon at [email protected] .

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If you’re a forgetful packer, travel hacks should be your best friend. The smartest ones make use of everyday items, like the plastic wrap in your kitchen cabinet or the hair elastic around your wrist.

Hair Elastic Travel Hacks

Here’s how to use the latter as a fix for impromptu outfit problems and forgotten items.

Make Your Skirt Bike -Friendly

Skirts are great for travel —they’re comfortable on the plane, versatile for building outfits, and pack small. But, they’re not exactly helpful if you find yourself wanting to take advantage of an unexpected bike-share station or moped rental halfway through the day. Don’t let your skirt ruin your spontaneity. Whatever the reason you’re regretting dressing romantically rather than in pants , you can turn your skirt into appropriate bottoms in a pinch.

For my personal favorite of these three travel hacks, grab a coin from your wallet and a hair elastic . Stand with your legs apart, and pull any extra pleating on the sides to the back. Lay the coin on top of the pleats in the back, then push the coin through your legs until you’re touching the center of your skirt’s front panel. Using the coin as a button, join the front and back panels of your skirt by tying the hair elastic tightly around the coin from the front.

The result should be two pant legs that will keep the breeze from blowing your skirt’s material around as you ride, and keep all that extra fabric up by your seat. Move the coin up higher or lower depending on how tight you want the legs to be, on a scale of harem pants to leggings.

Transform Your Bra Straps

The most comfortable bra in your dresser isn’t always the most versatile one, but it’s usually the only one you want to travel in. If you find yourself without a cross-back bra for your racerback shirt , adjust your own basic one with a hair elastic .

Loosen both straps and bring them together so they make an X-shape. Slip the elastic under the straps, and pull the ends through each other at the center until a tight tie is formed. It’s not as flat as those plastic bra-strap adjusters you can purchase, but it’s a quick fix when you need it.

Create a Makeshift Travel Wallet

Most people have a lot of cards in their day-to-day wallet that will only take up space when you’re traveling. To make your purse lighter and free up some space for necessities in a small day pack when you don’t have a card case, take only the cards you’ll need for the day and bind them up (along with paper bills if you have them) by using a hair elastic .

They’ll fit securely into a single interior pocket this way, rather than jostling around and getting lost in your change, headphones , and other accessories. This is probably the most controversial of these travel hacks because it’s not the most optimal way to store money and cards, but I rely on it often when I’m tight on purse space.

What are your favorite travel hacks? Comment below.

More from SmarterTravel:

• 9 Travel Hacks for Lazy People
• 3 Genius Packing Hacks for Plastic Wrap
• 7 Packing Hacks for Staying Organized While Traveling

Associate Editor Shannon McMahon writes about all things travel. Follow her on  Twitter  and  Instagram .

We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

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37 Packing Hacks: The Best Travel Hacks For Packing

Welcome to JetSetting Fools, here you will find our best travel tips for destinations worldwide. Some of the links on this site are Affiliate Links and if you use them to make a purchase, we may earn a commission. For more information, read our Disclosure Policy .

Packing hacks are the best way to take your travel game to the next level. We have rounded up the top travel packing hacks designed to save you space, time and money – so you can focus your energy on enjoying your trip. Clever and inventive, packing hacks for traveling will enhance your packing skills and overall travel savviness.

37 Best Travel Packing Hacks

I used to be terrible at packing for trips; first I was an over-packer, then an under-packer. Now, as a full-time world traveler, I rely on packing hacks for travel to keep me organized and efficient on travel days. Some hacks for packing have become so ingrained in our travel routine that packing without them is unimaginable.

Our Travel Hacks For Packing

Our list of packing hacks ranges from absolute game changers to creative tricks. Some are tried-and-true traveling hacks for packing, while others are insider tips we gleaned from expert travelers. These packing hacks will work for all travelers – so whether you are seeking backpack hacks or cruise packing hacks, you will surely find a few gems on our list.

We have categorized our list into three sections: Hacks for Packing Clothes, Toiletry Hacks, Carry On Hacks and a few miscellaneous tips, too. This is a mega list of the best packing life hacks – so grab your coffee and settle in.

Get started now with your FREE Packing Checklist !

Clothing Packing Hacks

Because clothing is the main component to packing, we are kicking off our list with hacks for packing clothes.

#1 Packing Cubes Hacks

Of all luggage packing hacks, packing with Packing Cubes ranks most supreme. Providing organization and structure to your suitcase or backpack, Packing Cubes are space-saving superstars. The cubes come in a variety of sizes, styles and materials – all of which need to be considered in order to attain your ultimate packing goal.

Pro Tip : We discuss the different kinds of cubes – and the best packing cube hacks – in detail in our post: Ways Packing Cubes make Travel Easier . 

#2 Cheap Packing Travel Hacks

While Packing Cubes are – hands down – one of the best packing hacks that we use, Packing Cubes are pricey! Personally, we think they are worth every single cent. However, if you are not ready to take the plunge and buy some, rather than packing using Packing Cubes, try Ziplock Bags. This is one of the top travel organization hacks that will save space in your suitcase. 

Gallon-size bags are ideal for organization and compression; however, unlike the quality Packing Cubes we use, Ziplocks have an incredibly short lifespan.

Pro Tip : I used to pack using Ziplocks (before I learned how incredible actual Packing Cubes are!). I would pack one complete outfit in each gallon bag and label it so I could easily find the outfit I was looking for. On the way home from vacation, I used the zip-top bags for my dirty laundry, too!

#3 Clothes-Rolling, Space-Saving Packing Hacks

Rolling clothes – rather than folding them – has long been one of the best suitcase packing hacks for saving space. Travelers can either roll each item individually – or, take it up a notch, and roll an entire outfit (pants, shirt, socks and underwear) together. By rolling a complete outfit, your suitcase becomes a grab-and-go destination when getting ready for the day’s adventure.

Pro Tip : For a tighter roll that stays together, use a ‘military roll’ or hair ties to secure the rolled clothing. If you use hair ties, you will also have backups if you lose or break one on your trip. (Plain rubber bands can be used, too, if you don’t use hair elastics.)

Roll vs Fold Debate

While many travelers rave about the benefits of rolling, it is not one of the packing luggage hacks that we use for our shirts and pants. We find that rolling is time consuming – and although many travelers claim that it can save even more space to pack rolled clothes in Packing Cubes, we have not found that to be true.

That said, the one item of clothing I do roll is my bikini underwear . I start by folding the underwear into thirds – folding each side in to the width of my small Packing Cube. Then, starting at the bottom, I roll up to the waistline. This is actually one of my airport hacks, as much as it is a packing hack, because this way, if my undergarment Packing Cube gets tagged for inspection, the agent rifling through my clothes will be less likely to touch the part of the panties that goes against my skin.

Pro Tip : Another clothes packing hack for underwear is to pack quick drying underwear that will be easy to wash in the sink and dry fast – if need be. A brand that fellow travelers love is Ex-Officio , but I prefer inexpensive and functional Fruit of the Loom . We talk more about clothing materials in a minute!

#4 Folding Hacks for Packing

If you are like us and decide to fold your clothes (instead of roll), then it is key to fold all of your clothing to the exact same size. After spending 10 years working in retail, I am fairly skilled at folding random sized clothing into neat stacks. However, for travelers who find it challenging, one of the packing folding hacks is to use a Folding Board , which will ensure you get a perfect fold on every piece of clothing.

Pro Tip: One of the great business travel packing hacks is to fold your delicate work clothes in dry cleaning bags as it will help eliminate wrinkles on arrival!

#5 Packing Hacks: Travel Clothing

One of the top packing clothes hacks for traveling is to only pack clothing that travels well. There are numerous clothing lines that are designed specifically for traveling, but most travelers don’t need to get that technical – and many items you already own might fit the bill.

The features of clothing that are most important when it comes to packing are moisture-wicking, quick-drying, odor-eliminating, wrinkle-resistant and washable clothing items.

That said, if you do pack clothing that wrinkles, bring travel-size Wrinkle Release Spray  to avoid having to iron on vacation.

Pro Tip : While the right clothing material is essential for travelers, it is equally important to pack clothing that you like and are comfortable wearing…because if it is not comfortable, it will likely stay folded in your suitcase. I share more tips about my packing experience for full-time travel in My Long-Term Travel Packing List: What I Pack To Travel the World .

#6 Pack Multi-Functional Clothing

There are no better packing hacks for traveling light than packing versatile and multi-functional clothing. One of the most useful items I have in my backpack is my wrap – and it has about a million uses.

I have used it as a scarf, a beach cover up, a bath towel, a picnic blanket, a pillow cover, a bedsheet, a head cover, an ear cover, an eye cover, a curtain and a bus seat cover…just to name a few. As long as the wrap is lightweight, dark and washable, the possibilities are endless.

Convertible clothing – like this dress/skirt combo – are awesome packing hacks to save space. Other clothing that can be multi-function are yoga pants (which can double as sleepwear), leggings (which can be layered in cool weather), a casual dress (which can be a beach cover up) and bikini tops (which can be worn as a bra).

Pro Tip : A pillowcase is another good item to pack that is multi-functional. Use it to cover the pillow you sleep on in your accommodations, then fill it with dirty clothes for the trip home.

#7 Capsule Clothing Packing Travel Hacks

Packing a capsule wardrobe is one of the smart packing hacks used by travelers. 

To assemble a capsule wardrobe, first, choose a color scheme of similar shades – like black, dark blue and shades of purple – and only pack clothing that falls into the color palette. Each item – tops and bottoms – need to be able to be mixed, matched and layered with all other items. Outfits can be accessorized with colorful scarves and jewelry.

By using this trip hack, you can pack minimal pieces of clothing that can be combined to make numerous different outfits. Done right, it is one of the space saving packing hacks that allows travelers to pack carry-on luggage only. 

In addition to coordinating my entire wardrobe, one item that I always like to pack is a black skirt . It is something that is comfortable and casual for sightseeing, but can be dressed up with a nicer shirt and a scarf for going out in the evening.

Pro Tip : A life hack for packing clothes for a vacation is to use the Countdown Rule. For example, if you are taking a 5-day trip, pack 5 shirts, 4 pants (or shorts/skirts), 3 dresses, 2 pairs of shoes and 1 colorful scarf (or bold piece of jewelry). Additionally, pack one pair of underwear for every day of the trip, but only one set of pajamas.

#8 Clothes Packing Hacks for Vacation

One of the simple traveling packing hacks that is often overlooked is Destination Research. What I mean by this is that, before you start packing and choosing clothes for your trip, first check the weather forecast for your destination. Also, gain some insight to the destination’s clothing culture and have a basic understanding of what apparel is acceptable at tourist destinations, religious sites, restaurants and clubs.

Pro Tip : Use your itinerary to help decide what clothes to bring. How the Packing Hacks Travel Itinerary works is that, based on your planned activities that you select in advance of your trip, you determine which outfit to wear for each day of your trip. (To book your activities in advance, we use Viator !)

#9 Clever Packing Hacks for Clothing

One of the life hacks for packing that we have long used – and is commonly used by fellow travelers – is to pack clothing items for a trip that you no longer want to keep. After you wear them on your trip, you can donate the clothing at your destination (or, if there is really no life left in the item, just toss it!). This is an especially good tip for families traveling with growing kids.

Pro Tip : One of the truly Travel Light hacks is to reverse this idea slightly. When you leave for vacation, only pack personal items – like undergarments and toiletries. On arrival at your destination, make your first stop a thrift shop and buy new-to-me clothes for the entire trip. On the last day of the vacation, return to the thrift shop and donate all of the clothing back to the store. We have never personally used this hack – but heard about it from a fellow traveler and love the concept!

#10 Travel Hacks for Packing Shoes

To save suitcase space, on any trip, for any length of time, only ever pack three pairs of shoes – I even follow this rule as a full-time traveler! All shoes should be comfortable to wear for long days of sightseeing and, more importantly, they need to go with all the outfits that you are packing. (This idea goes back to the capsule wardrobe method!)

For more travel shoe tips, read our blog post, The Best Shoes for Traveling .

Pro Tip : A good way to keep grimy shoes from dirtying up the inside of your luggage and one of the little genius packing hacks is to fit disposable shower caps (the kind that are free at many hotels) over the sole of the shoe before you put them in your bag. The empty space inside your shoes can also be used to store items – like deodorant and shaving cream, just put it in a resealable bag first.

Resealable bags are one of our essentials for packing. They come in handy for everything from an open bag of snacks to your wet bathing suit on a travel day. Find out more tips in our blog post, Everyday Items for Traveling . 

#11 Clothing Airport Hacks

One of the ingenious suitcase packing hacks to save space is to actually wear your bulkiest items, especially on long travel days . In fact, this is one of the top Carry On Only travel hacks. Rather than using valuable luggage space to pack your coat and boots, wear them on the plane! Tie a sweatshirt around your waist or wear layers that can easily be removed once seated on the plane.

Pro Tip : Another one of the travel packing hacks that can save space inside your luggage is tying your shoes or flip flops to the outside of your carry on bag. This also applies if you carry a water bottle…simply clip it to the exterior of your bag if possible…or better yet, travel with a collapsible water bottle .

#12 Hacks for Packing a Suitcase…Without Over-Packing

Over-packing is a downfall for many travelers – it certainly was for me when I was a novice traveler. But I have learned what an absolute drag over-packing can be. It can weigh you down (literally) when lugging your suitcase through an airport, down a cobblestone street and up the stairs of a boutique hotel.

One of the best life hacks for traveling and packing – or rather not over-packing – is to simply commit to packing in a carry on size suitcase. By limiting the amount of room you have, you will be less tempted to over pack, which is much more sensible! We discuss more specific carry on packing hacks later in the post!

Pro Tip: If you are checking luggage, invest in an affordable luggage scale to ensure you don’t go over the weight limit. You don’t want to be surprised at the beginning of your trip with an extra charge!

Everything we pack for world travel fits in a Carry On size backpack! Find out what we pack: The Ultimate Packing List .

#13 Packing Suitcase Hacks

We pack in backpacks, but one of the best suitcase hacks I ever heard was to shift your perspective of your suitcase. Rather than packing stacks of clothing horizontally into the suitcase, pack vertically, from the wheels up.

Another one of the best Packing a Suitcase hacks is to take this idea one step further. Pack vertically, but pack complete outfits and stack them in the order that you plan to wear them (according to your itinerary!). This way, when you get ready each day, all you need to do is grab the outfit from the top!

Pro Tip : Don’t let any space go unused! One of the long time travel hacks packing tips is to take advantage of small crevices in your suitcase to slip in things like a comb or other small miscellaneous items.

#14 Luggage Hacks

Day packs and purses can take up a lot of room in luggage. Minimize how many items you carry by selecting one purse that will work for all occasions. It is even better if you pack a purse or bag that can double as a day pack.

One of our favorite packing for travel hacks is to pack a lightweight  foldable shopping bag , which unfolds to a bigger bag for going to the beach or shopping during your trip.

Pro Tip : Read more about day bags in our blog post, The Best Day Packs for Traveling .

#15 Packing a Suitcase: Hacks for Fresh Clothing

One way to keep your clothes smelling fresh during your trip is to layer each clothing item with a dryer sheet. This is one of the double-dip packing travel hacks because later, if you need to do laundry while on your trip, you will have dryer sheets to use!

Pro Tip : Another way to keep clothes fresh is with Fabreeze. Pack a travel-size Fabreeze with your toiletries! And, don’t worry, we are getting to our toiletry packing hacks in a minute!

#16 Holiday Packing Hacks for Souvenirs

If you anticipate collecting breakable souvenirs during your trip, a good suitcase hack is to use bubble wrap in between your clothes or outfits. Then, use the bubble wrap to protect souvenirs that you are bringing home.

Other travel hacks for packing souvenirs (and some of the creative ways to better ensure breakables make the trip home undamaged) is to pack them inside Pringles cans or even use the free hotel slippers as cushioning. On the other hand, if you are  buying wine, actual wine protectors are the best.

Pro Tip : In many cases, the best and safest way to transport fragile souvenirs is to ship them home…rather than trying to jam them into your suitcase. 

#17 Packing hacks for Traveling: Laundry

One of the best space-saving travel hacks is simply to plan on doing laundry during your trip. By planning to do laundry while you travel, you will only need to pack one week’s worth of clothing – or less! – even if you are on a 2-week – or longer! – trip.

We recommend booking accommodations with a washer and (maybe) a dryer ( Airbnb is our go-to resource for finding the best places to stay). It is a good idea to pack a few individual packages of liquid laundry detergent , just in case they do not provide any. 

Pro Tip : If your accommodation does not have a washer, there is likely a nearby laundromat – or even laundry service. Just remember to bring a packable laundry bag so that you have something to carry your dirty clothes in.

#18 Sink Laundry: Packing Tips and Hacks

Learning how to efficiently do sink laundry is one of the packing hacks for long trips, when you will inevitably need to wash at least a few undergarments. Sink laundry is as simple as it sounds: It’s when you hand wash your clothes in the sink, bathtub or shower.

The most important thing to keep in mind when washing items in the sink is allowing enough time for clothes to dry (and, again, why it is so important to pack quick-dry clothing).

Many travelers wash clothes at night, before going to bed, to ensure they will dry. We like to take advantage of the sunshine (if possible) and wash them in the morning (but never the morning of a travel day!).

Sometimes we just use a bar of soap to clean our clothes, but Sink Laundry detergent is probably better. A sink stopper will help for scrubbing and rinsing in the sink – and a travel clothesline is ideal to hang up wet clothes. That said, draping socks over a heater or in front of a fan can help speed drying times…and a hair dryer works, too.

Pro Tip : A Scrubba Wash Bag is often touted by fellow travelers as one of the top packing hacks for backpacking, but we have yet to use one personally!

Packing Hacks For Toiletries

Our list of packing toiletries hacks is full of ideas that will help you pack better for your next trip! These travel hacks for packing toiletries will hopefully help you avoid spills in your luggage…and save you some space in your bag, too.

#19 Travel Toiletry Hacks for Shampoo and Conditioner

One way to avoid any liquid shampoo and conditioner luggage incidents is to simply not pack it! Many hotels and Airbnb apartments provide shampoo and conditioner. And, if they don’t, you can always buy some at a local store when you get there.

That said, did you know that shampoo and condition come in bars just like soap? Well, you are now in on the secret! Using shampoo and conditioner bars – rather than packing bottled liquids – is an excellent travel packing hack that will ensure you don’t have spilled shampoo in your bag on arrival at your destination.

Pro Tip : Shampoo and conditioner are just one of the solid toiletries you can use on your trip. Other packings hacks for traveling without liquids are using toothpaste tabs and solid perfumes !

#20 All-in-One Toiletry Travel and Packing Hacks

What better way to save space than to use products with multiple uses? The all-in-one Dr. Bronner’s soaps are organic and certified Fair Trade products that are designed for multiple purposes. The soap can be used on body, face, hair and teeth…and also to clean dishes, clothes, floors, windows – and even the toilet – making it one of the best travel packing hacks of all!

Pro Tip : The Castille soap collection comes in a variety of scents and is available in liquid or bars .

#21 Liquids: The Best Packing Hacks for Travel

While eliminating liquids from your luggage is one of the top packing hacks for travel, if you are bringing liquids in your bag, we have a few travel hacks and tips on how to keep liquids from spilling inside your bag.

The best travel hacks for liquids is a 3-part process that includes plastic wrap, tape and a resealable bag. First, unscrew the top off the bottle and place a piece of plastic wrap over the top, then screw the top back on (over the top of the plastic wrap). Next, take a piece of tape and tape the flip lid shut. Finally, secure the bottles in resealable bags. By using the three-step method, suitcase spillage is highly unlikely!

Pro Tip : The bottles you pack in can make all of the difference! Liquid travel containers is not where you want to skimp on quality. Therefore, one of the best travel hacks for toiletries is to use refillable GoToob bottles that are specifically engineered for travel – and promise a spill-proof journey!

#22 Save Space in your Toiletry Bag when A Little Dab Will Do

One of the phenomenal travel hacks to save space in your toiletries case is to only bring as much product as you will actually use on your trip. Rather than packing larger bottles of face creams and foundation, pour a small amount into a contact lens case. Use more than one case if you need to…but just remember to use a contact case with screw top lids.

Pro Tip : Small 10ml bottles also work great for liquids that you will only need a little dab of during your vacation. They are inexpensive and reusable, too, making them one of the best travel hacks!

#23 Travel Size Items

When it comes to transporting liquids, one of the travel packing life hacks is to use refillable travel-size bottles. In fact, we think travel-size toiletries are the way to go in general when it comes to packing and carry-on hacks.

It is amazing how many products are made in a smaller, space-saving size. Some favorites are a travel-size hairbrush , travel-size toothpaste , travel-size deodorant and travel-size shaving cream . Products we don’t use – but that other travelers do – are mini-magnifying mirrors , travel-size hair straighteners and travel towels .

Pro Tip : Want one of our top travel hacks that saves money in the long run? When your travel-size toothpaste runs out, don’t throw it away! The tube can actually be refilled from a regular-size toothpaste tube. Just securely hold the openings together and squeeze from the larger tube into the travel sized tube!

#24 Travel Tips for Shaving Cream Alternatives

Using a travel-size shaving cream is not the only way to save space in your suitcase. One of the best travel packing tips and hacks is to not bring shaving cream at all! Instead, just lather up soap or use hair conditioner in place of shaving cream.

Pro Tip : The Schick Intuition razor is another travel gem – in that the shaving cream is right on the razor!

#25 Minimal Hair Products

While we love the innovative travel-size products that are available to travelers, the fewer you bring, the lighter your luggage. It can be tempting to pack a hair dryer, curling iron and straightener, but we don’t recommend it…even if they are all travel size!

First, check to see if your accommodations provide a hair dryer. Second, choose one low-maintenance hairstyle. This way, you can limit the number of hair tools and products you bring on your trip!

Pro Tip : In the case that your accommodations don’t have a blow dryer, rather than succumbing to packing a hairdryer, one of the travel life hacks is to pack a microfiber towel that can be used to help dry your hair more quickly. 

#26 Makeup: Packing for Vacation Hacks

Many minimalist travelers recommend leaving all makeup at home when taking a trip. While I have never been a heavy makeup wearer, I still travel with makeup – but I limit it to essentials only.

I pack one powder, two small brushes, a travel eyelash curler and mascara…and that is it. At the very least, limit your makeup bag to only one eyeliner, one eyeshadow, one mascara and one lipstick (and make sure they go with your capsule wardrobe color scheme!).

Pro Tip : Using makeup samples is one of the great traveling life hacks for trips! If you have collected any sample-size makeup in the months prior to your trip, select a few to use on your vacation!

#27 The Almighty Pill Box as a First Aid Kit

While a Weekly Pill Box is excellent for its intended purpose, it is also a great space-saving travel organizer! Instead of packing bottles of Just-in-Case medications, store each of the assorted meds in a different day of the week. For example, store pain reliever in Sunday, vitamins in Monday, cold meds in Tuesday and belly meds in Wednesday. Pill boxes are also one of the fantastic travel pack hacks for storing and organizing jewelry for your trip!

Pro Tip : For something a little more flexible than a pill box, use individual travel jars  and small 2×3-inch plastic resealable baggies to pack medications…and jewelry, too! Read more about what we pack in our first aid travel kit in our post, Ways to Stay Healthy While Traveling .

#28 Toiletry Life Hacks for Packing a Suitcase

One way to make packing toiletries so much easier is to invest in a Travel Toiletry Case that stays packed all the time! With a pre-packed toiletry case, all you need to do when it comes time to pack is grab the bag and go! Just starting out with traveling? This packaged toiletry case is great for beginners!

Pro Tip : Just remember to refill any used items when you return from each trip!

Carry On Hacks

On travel days, we seldom check bags – we each have carry-on-size travel backpacks and a day pack. To stay organized and efficient in airports, carry on luggage hacks are essential!

#29 Carry On Travel Hacks: Airport Security

No one likes a traveler who holds up the line at security, but there are a few packing hacks for carry on luggage that will get you through checkpoints in a flash.

First, if you are carrying liquids onto the plane, make sure they are in 3.4-ounce bottles (100ml) or smaller…and that they all fit into one quart-size resealable plastic bag. Next – and a key to being quick at security – when you pack your bag, place the bag of liquids in an easy to reach spot.

Electronics – especially laptops, but sometimes larger cameras and phones, which sometimes have to be removed when going through security – should also be placed in an easy-to-access part of your carry on luggage.

Pro Tip : Shoes often need to be removed, which is why I like to wear Slip On shoes or flip flops on travel days. However, if you are bringing boots on your trip, you will need to decide whether it is better to wear them to save space in your suitcase or pack them for a swifter pass through security.

#30 Packing Hacks: Carry On Entertainment

The best way to pass time on an airplane is with on-board entertainment, which is why planning your entertainment in advance is one of the best packing hacks for flying. Headphones and portable chargers are a must! 

Once I get settled in my seat, the first thing I do is create a list of movies to watch in-flight. Headphones , however, are essential to enjoying the flicks…so I always bring two pairs (just in case one fails me or gets lost).

On flights where there is no seat-back entertainment, be sure to bring your own entertainment. Make sure your phone is fully charged…and make a few song playlists or download apps in advance. Bring your charging cord (most seats now have USB ports) and a Portable Charger . 

If you like to read on planes (or trains or buses) a Kindle can be a real space-saver and one of the top vacation packing hacks. However, if you are like me and prefer the feel of paper books, then pick up one or two at a used bookstore or free community library…and then pass them along when you’re finished.

Pro Tip : Find out more of the specifics of what should be in your carry on luggage and our other in-flight tips in our blog post, Long Haul Flight Essentials .

#31 Only Hand Luggage Hacks

If you are trying to squeeze all of your items for your entire trip into a carry on, then one way to make a bit more room is to wear a fanny pack onto the plane. What makes it one of the best carry on packing hacks is that your fanny pack shouldn’t count as an extra bag – plus it keeps you hands-free! Besides that, it is a great place to store valuable items (like your passport and wallet), as well as items you want easy access to during the flight (like an lip balm , sleep mask and earplugs).

Pro Tip : Using a backpack instead of a suitcase will also keep you hands-free on travel days! Read more of the pros and cons of each style of luggage in our blog post, Backpack vs Suitcase . 

#32 Organizational Hand Luggage Packing Hacks

There is nothing more frustrating than when the plane is ready for take off…and you realize that your headphones and kindle are stowed in the overhead compartment (which now cannot be accessed until the captain has turned off the seatbelt sign).

To avoid the inconvenience, prepare ahead and pack a small on-board tote that contains your flight essentials, which can fit under the seat in front of you. Items I make sure to have close at hand are sanitizer , wet wipes , water, snacks, phone, headphones, sleep mask, earplugs and compression socks .

Pro Tip : One of the top carry on luggage packing hacks to use if you are checking luggage is to travel on board with a complete change of clothes…just in case your luggage (and clothing) gets lost en route to your destination . I also like to pack a fresh pair of underwear (that I can change into in the airport bathroom to start my trip off feeling fresh!) – as well as a toothbrush and toothpaste to use to freshen up after a long flight.

Miscellaneous Packing Hacks

Our final travel packing tips and hacks are some tricks that we have picked up over the years that make packing so much easier!

#33 Electronic Device Cable Organization

One of our suitcase life hacks is keeping our cables organized. Some of the essential electronics that we travel with are a mini extension cord (because the outlets are not always in convenient places!), a multi-port adapter (because there are multiple things to be charged!) and a portable charger that we carry with us while we are out exploring.

A good way to keep all these cords and electronics organized is with a Grid It board that keeps everything in place and easy to find! 

Pro Tip : For travelers who make frequent trips, an even easier way to stay organized is to purchase duplicate chargers and cables for all of your devices. Secure them on the Grid It – and always keep them packed so they are ready to go when you are ready to go!

#34 Cooking on Vacation

One of the reasons we love staying in Airbnb apartments is that we have access to our own kitchen where we can cook simple meals. That said, not all kitchens come fully equipped. If you plan on cooking during your trip, consider investing in a collapsible colander , a flexible cutting board and an multi-functional knife (but only if you are checking luggage). 

Pro Tip : In our travels, we have found that it is best to pack the spices that we love! To easily pack our spices, we use small resealable bags (the 2×3-inch baggies are the best!) rather than carrying bottles.

#35 Packing Hacks for Traveling as a Couple or with Friends

One thing that we have learned as a traveling couple is to communicate about our packing list. All of the items that can be shared – from lotion to a travel umbrella to a portable Wifi device – are divvied up evenly between us so that we are not carrying duplicates. Whether traveling as couples, friends or families, find out what items might be unnecessary and determine who will carry what.

Pro Tip : Packing Lists are gold! Keep a list of all the items you pack for a trip. When you return, take a few minutes to jot down notes on what you used and what you didn’t and adjust accordingly to make packing easier for future trips!

#36 Packing Hacks for International Travel

As we spend most of our time overseas, we have quite a few international travel hacks for packing. These tips aren’t necessarily travel hacks for packing light, but rather what to pack to make international travel a little bit easier. 

First, make sure you pack your passport and other travel documents in a safe place. We use a Passport Organizer that fits inside a zippered pocket inside our under-the-seat carry on luggage. 

We also think it is important to invest in a Mobile WiFi Hotspot so that you will have an internet connection from the moment you land. We use the GlocalMe device – which can be fitted with a SIM card or you can purchase data online ahead of your trip (the better way to go in our opinion!). 

Next, make sure that you have the right travel apps. Google Translate, Uber (or whatever ride hailing app is popular in the country you are visiting), Booking.com and Google Maps are the basic essentials. 

Bring (and use) a credit card that does not charge international transaction fees (we prefer the Chase Sapphire credit card). 

Pro Tip: We share heaps of tips for traveling from the United States to Europe in this article, How To Plan a Trip To Europe . 

#37 Best Packing Hack for Travel – Make a List! 

We have already touched on making a list as one of the top packing hacks for travel – but it is truly one of the easiest and most often overlooked hacks for organizing your suitcase. 

Start by making a list of what to pack for your next trip. Then, after the trip, reanalyze the list, eliminating the things you didn’t use – and then make a Master Packing List. For future travels, use your Master Packing List as a base for all of your trips. 

However, as each trip is unique with different climates and activities, it is best to take your list one step further and make an Itinerary of Outfits. On this list, note what outfit (or outfits) you will wear on each day of your trip based on your outlined trip itinerary. This way, you can be certain that you only pack clothes you intend to actually wear – saving you from over packing! 

Pro Tip : Our T rip Planning Printables Kit includes itinerary templates and everything you need to organize your trip! 

More Travel Tips and Hacks

Above, we featured our top travel tips for creative and easy packing hacks – but we have so many more travel hacks to save money! 

Cheap Flights

We use a combination of tricks to find the best fares on flights – and we share them all in our article How To Find Cheap Flights .

Best Hotels

Want to find the best hotels at the best prices? Don’t we all! Get there by using our travel hacks for Booking Cheap Hotels . 

Free Packing Checklist 

With our packing hacks for travel, you will be a packing pro in no time! Get started right away with your  FREE Packing Checklist!

Start planning your next trip ! Search for the lowest airfares , the best accommodations and fun things to do …then start packing !   Want more travel advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for more tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page !

We Want To Know: What are your best travel packing hacks? Give us your tips and advice in the comments below!

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15 Essential Travel Hacks When Visiting Japan

A sk anybody what's on their travel bucket list, and their response is sure to include "Japan." Thanks to a combination of rich heritage, lush landscapes, and labyrinth cities packed with skyscrapers, temples, and tourist traps alike, the country has soared in popularity, with American Express claiming that the number of bookings has increased by 1,300% since 2019 (via Bloomberg ).

Part of what makes Japan so alluring is that its culture and customs are so distinct and unique to those of other countries. That's also what makes it an overwhelming travel destination, especially for first-time visitors. If you start your journey in a major city like Tokyo, Yokohama, or Osaka, you're instantly immersed in a world of neon lights, bustling crowds, loud noises, a million different smells, and sensory overload.

With so much to see, do, and eat, a trip to Japan really isn't the kind of vacation you can make up as you go along. The last thing you need is to run into an easily avoided stumbling block like a lack of internet or 30 minutes spent figuring out the route to your next destination — which is why you'll want to arrive armed with as much knowledge as possible.

Read more: 28 Bucket List Destinations That Everyone Needs To Experience At Least Once

Get Quick Meals At 7-Eleven

It's tough to walk for longer than 20 seconds without stumbling upon a convenience store in Japan. Also known as conbini, these stores are usually open 24 hours a day and are packed full of affordable tasty treats that will keep you going without the time (and money) it takes to eat at an actual restaurant.

For as cheap as 200 yen ($1.34), you can enjoy the likes of onigiri rice balls, chicken karaage, sandos, oden, and bento boxes. We also recommend picking up taiyaki for a quick sugar boost. Shaped like fish and made of pancake or waffle batter, they're usually filled with red bean paste, custard, and chocolate and make for an endlessly addictive snack.

The most common store is 7-Eleven, which has over 20,000 locations throughout Japan and is miles above its U.S. counterpart in the culinary department. There are also over 15,000 FamilyMarts scattered across the country, but they typically don't offer as much variety.

Get Pocket Wi-Fi

Public Wi-Fi is surprisingly scarce in Japan, which can put you in some tough spots if you get lost mid-metro commute. Fortunately, pocket Wi-Fi exists -- and it is a lifesaver. For as cheap as $5 a day, you can rent a portable device that will allow you to access the internet on the go, even on the train. The majority will allow you to connect multiple devices at the same time and come in a variety of different speeds and GB, with some even offering unlimited data throughout your stay.  

If you rent in advance through a website like Ninja WiFi or Japan Wireless , you can pick up the device (also known by the much cuter name of a Wi-Fi Egg) at a designated counter once you've got through customs at airports including Haneda and Narita in Tokyo, Chubu Centrair, Kansai International, Fukuoka, and more. Once you're done, you can just pop it into the returns box at the airport on the way back. Easy.

Buy A JR Pass

Sadly, the JR (Japan Rail) Pass isn't as cheap as it once was. It surged in price by 70% in July 2023 as the yen continued to decline in value against other currencies around the world. However, if your itinerary includes extensive train travel, it's still worth the purchase.

The Japan Rail Pass will allow you to ride the rail to your heart's desire -- including the country's infamous, lightning-speed Shinkansen bullet trains (for a supplementary fee) and the Narita Express. It's more expensive to purchase once in Japan, so we recommend buying yours in advance on the JRailPass website where it costs $340.65 for seven days, $544.45 for 14 days, and $680.35 for 21 days.

If your visit is limited to just one or two cities, such as Tokyo and Osaka or Tokyo and Kyoto, then it probably isn't necessary. For example, a trip between Tokyo and Osaka typically costs $120 each way, which is considerably cheaper than forking out a few hundred dollars for a JR Pass.

Download Train Schedules And Maps

Japan has incredible public transportation. It also happens to be extremely overwhelming if it's your first (or second, or third) time in the country. Tokyo's metro can be especially confusing, with nine different train lines and 180 different stations to navigate. Its roads are even more complex with the majority not even having names, baffling even the city's own taxi drivers.

With that in mind, future-proofing for any situation where you may end up lost in an unknown place is always a good idea. Download or screenshot train schedules ahead of time through the JRailPass website, which offers both interactive and PDF versions of Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto's transportation systems. You can also download an offline version of the local area on Google Maps. This will also help if you face the aforementioned pesky issue of scarce public Wi-Fi, or if your portable Wi-Fi runs out of juice midday.

Use Citymapper

If you're visiting Tokyo, Citymapper is a must. Just like it does for multiple other cities across the globe, the award-winning app analyzes public transportation, congestion, and distance to figure out all the different ways you can reach your destination, and precisely how many minutes each option will take.

Whether it's walking, cycling, taxis, metro, or a combination of everything, all you need to do is select your chosen route and follow Citymapper's step-by-step instructions. When we say step-by-step, we mean it. The app's so smart that it will even tell you which exits and entrances to use at each station to make your journey as stress-free as possible. If you miss your stop or don't quite make your train, the app will also take that into account to restrategize your trip ASAP. You'll need to be online to request a new route, but if you check your journey ahead of time, you can save it to your homepage for offline use.

Visit Between January And March

There is no one "best" time to visit Japan, but there is a most convenient time. January to March tends to attract less crowds and will also usually bring the cheapest flights of the year. While it'll almost certainly be cold, you'll skip typhoon season and be in with a chance of seeing Japan in the snow.

If you do choose to visit at this time, just be sure to check the dates of the Lunar New Year (AKA Chinese New Year). This tends to be a public holiday across the region and will see cities across Japan packed with tourists. As it's such a popular time to travel, this will also be the exception to the "January to March is cheaper" rule with hotels and airlines driving up their prices over the holiday. The same is true of the end of March, which marks the beginning of cherry blossom season.

Make Advanced Reservations

There's a lot to enjoy in Japan. The problem is that everybody else wants to enjoy these things, too. Tourist attractions often book up months in advance, and a lot of them don't sell tickets at the gate, which doesn't leave much space for spontaneity for the average tourist visiting Japan .

If you plan on visiting the likes of the Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo - The Making of Harry Potter, Tokyo Disney Resort, Ghibli Park, Shibuya Sky observation deck, Teamlab Planets, or the Studio Ghibli Museum, it's best to sort your tickets sooner rather than later. The Ghibli Museum is especially challenging, with tickets for the next month going on sale at 10 a.m. on the 10th of the month prior.

The same is true of the hotels at Tokyo Disney Resort . With one of the most impressive Disney hotel lineups in the world (including the MiraCosta, a hotel that is actually inside Tokyo DisneySea), rooms are in extremely high demand. These go on sale from 11 a.m. four months before the dates you hope to stay and are bookable through the Tokyo Disney Resort Online Reservations & Tickets website.

Download The Japan Connected-Free Wi-Fi App

If you don't want the responsibility of carrying around and charging pocket Wi-Fi, download the Japan Connected -free Wi-Fi app. Whether you need to double-check directions or just have a quick midday TikTok break, this handy tool will search over 170,000 internet hotspots to find the closest location to you. The majority of these will likely be at a 7-Eleven, where you'll almost always be able to go online.

As if that feature isn't useful enough, the app eliminates the need to fill in the registration forms that typically serve as a barrier before you can access public Wi-Fi. Fill out your name and email once and the app will complete each form on your behalf. While you used to need to be online to find the Internet (which kind of defeats the app's entire purpose), you can now download the offline map to ensure you can always find a connection. Just remember to be careful with what data you enter or share while using any public Wi-Fi network .

Japan has been a "cash is king" country for years, meaning paying with notes and coins is the default over ApplePay and credit cards. This attitude has slipped in recent years, but cash still has a strong grip on the country's residents with only 36% of people preferring cashless payments.

While you should be able to use your card in most major outlets and tourist locations -- such as department stores, malls, theme parks, supermarkets, and even taxis -- a lot of restaurants, cafes, and bars still prefer to be paid in cash. This number will be much higher outside of major cities, and many local restaurants, markets, or temples won't have the facilities to accept card payments even if they want to. Exchanging at least a chunk of your spending money into Japanese yen ahead of time will save you in sticky situations (plus it helps you control your spending, which is always a bonus).

Choose Taxis Over Ubers

Although Uber exists in Japan, it's not as widespread or commonplace as in countries like the United States, Canada, or the United Kingdom. Journeys tend to be more expensive than those taken with local cabs, making the latter the service of choice for locals and tourists alike.

The upside to Uber is, of course, the fact that it's so familiar for many tourists. It's easy to order your taxi and pay via card, and the entire process is in English. However, your cheapest option is to hail taxis on the street, as you won't need to pay a base fare for the pick-up service. It'll say on the front of a car in Japanese if it's occupied. It's also color-coded so tourists can understand. Red means it's taken. Green means it's available. If you do want to pre-book, most locals prefer to use the Go app for journeys anywhere within Japan's 47 prefectures. This works similarly to Uber, except it allows you to pay with both cash and card and will give you a flat rate for journeys to and from the airport.

Purchase A Suica Card

The question isn't so much what a Suica card can do ; what can't it do? This prepaid, contactless card can be repeatedly loaded up with more cash to pay for public transport, including the metro, trains, buses, and taxis. Beyond transportation, Suica is also accepted in many shops, restaurants, cafes, and even vending machines. Just look out for the Suica symbol to know if they do -- and if you can't spot it, it's at least worth asking.

You can purchase your card before arriving in Japan and return it at the end of your trip to recover your 500 yen ($12) deposit. Due to a manufacturing shortage, the sale of new Suica cards is temporarily on hold as of June 2023, but if you're on a temporary visa, you can still purchase a Welcome Suica card. This doesn't require a deposit, doesn't need to be returned, and is valid for 28 days. These can only be purchased inside Japan at locations such as Narita and Haneda airports and will come with a reference paper which you'll need to keep on your person at all times.

Utilize Storage Lockers

For security reasons, storage lockers are a rarity at train stations around the world. Japan is an exception. You'd be hard-pressed to find a major station without coin lockers (which, despite the name, can actually be used with a Suica card, too), and in Tokyo, most stations come equipped with storage facilities.

Baggage storage is one of those things you don't realize you'll need until you desperately need it. These lockers are useful if you only have a few hours before heading to your hotel or next destination and want to stow away your belongings so you can freely explore. They also happen to be extremely cheap, typically costing between $1 and $5. There's usually no problem finding a vacant locker, but if you are struggling, you can download the  SPACER app , which will allow you to find and reserve a locker at major stations such as Shinjuku, Osaka, and Shibuya in advance. This is currently only available in Japanese, but there are plans for an English version in the near future.

Avoid National Holidays

Lunar New Year isn't the only holiday worth skipping if you want to avoid the crowds. National holidays bring in huge crowds anywhere, but especially Japan, where workers get little annual leave and want to take advantage of the break. If you do decide to brave big attractions like Shibuya Crossing, Senso-ji Temple, or Tokyo Skytree, you'll likely find yourself shoulder-to-shoulder with fellow tourists.

For a quieter vacation, April 29 to May 6 -- or, Golden Week -- is one of Japan's busiest holiday periods. This tends to be the most hectic season for the likes of Tokyo Disney Resort and Universal Studios Japan, where you can expect to wait in long lines for everything, from the park entrance to the restrooms. While Christmas isn't a national holiday in Japan, it is for many other countries, meaning the festive season can also bring an influx of tourists to both of these locations. Late September (Silver Week), New Year, and the Obon Week in August are typically also very busy.

Claim Your Tax Refund

From clothes to gadgets, Japan is one of the most unique places for retail therapy in the world. If you're a tourist, you can also shop with the peace of mind that you'll get at least some of your money back. Any non-resident visiting Japan for less than six months can enjoy tax-free shopping, meaning you can reclaim 10% of the value of your purchase.

There are a few catches. First, you'll need to check that the store is in fact a "tax-free shop" by checking for a logo stating as such at the entrance. They're extremely common and can be found in the likes of Namba City, Echika Ikebukuro, and Seibu Shibuya. You'll also need to have spent more than 5,000 yen ($33) in the same store on the same day. Some stores will let you pay tax-free from the offset if you present your passport, while others will require you to present your receipt at a tax exemption counter on the same day to get your money back.

Download A Good Translation App

If you know Japanese, you're good to go. For those of us who aren't bilingual, Japan can be tough to navigate at times. While most signs in major cities will have translations, less than 30% of people living in Japan speak English, which means it's inevitable you'll hit the language barrier at some point during your stay.

A good translation app is a must, especially one that's able to translate pictures. Google Translate is always a go-to, but one of the best choices is iTranslate Translator . Not only can it tackle text, but you can also use it to scan and translate menus, signs, labels ... you name it. Best of all, it can work offline if you download the Japanese pack ahead of time. It's free to download but will cost you $5.99 a month to unlock its full potential. Considering how useful it is, it's better to spend $5.99 than find yourself stranded in a restaurant blind-ordering a dish because you can't read the menu.

Read the original article on Explore .

I Tried a TikTok-Viral Bobby Pin Hack For an Easy Hairstyle

Published on 4/23/2024 at 7:20 PM

As a beauty editor, people expect me to know a lot about everything related to the cosmetic space. From knowing the latest makeup trends to being able to tell them what manicures are popular at the drop of a dime, it's a tall order that I can usually handle with ease. However, I can readily admit that I'm not an expert in every category — in fact, I'm downright pitiful when it comes to hair.

I don't know what it is, but something in my mind just stops working whenever I try my hand at recreating a hairstyle or mastering any new techniques. No matter how hard I try, I simply never end up with the results that I'm looking for. That being said, when I came across a bobby pin hack that looked so easy that even I could do it, I was intrigued.

The hack in question was popularized by a content creator by the name Krista . In her video, she uses a bobby pin to give her hair a bit of volume, completely concealing the usually hard-to-hide hair accessory. It seemed simple enough, so I decided to try it for myself. Keep reading to see how my experiment went.

In a recreation of Krista's video, hairstylist Matt Newman broke down the steps to get the look. He explained that she tucked the front piece of hair toward the back of the head, swooped the side piece to cover it up, and pinned them where they connected. She then finished by bringing the rest of her hair forward to hide the hair pins.

During my first attempt at doing this trend, I quickly realized that you have to work in smaller sections if you have coarse hair , like myself, and you definitely need to double-up on the bobby pins. When I first tried to pin the pieces back, the bobby pin immediately flew out of my hair. However, after some trial and error, I was eventually able to get it to stay and achieve the desired look. So, on the other side of my head, I tried to recreate it more seamlessly.

Just as Krista did, I split the hair toward the front of my head. I brought the bottom piece toward the front and the top piece toward the back, pinning where they intersected.

Not only did the additional bobby pin help the hair stay in place, but it also added the tiniest lift to the side of my head. This made it look like I just sprayed a volumizing hairspray and fluffed it out a bit.

To blend everything together, I brushed the rest of my hair into place and, I had to admit, the style looked pretty good.

While I initially was struggling, after a few tweaks this hack worked for me. It's going to be a great trick to keep in my back pocket, especially when I want to keep my hair out of my face in the upcoming warmer months.

Ariel Baker is the assistant editor for PS Beauty. Her areas of expertise include celebrity news, beauty trends, and product reviews. She has additional bylines with Essence and Forbes Vetted.

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Welcome back to our Saturday edition! Wait — don't put down that yummy dessert. One 38-year-old woman told Business Insider that instead of skipping treats, she lost 140 pounds in two years by eating more high-protein foods.

That's great news for foodies like myself. Keep reading for more good news to kick-start your weekend.

On the agenda:

"Stopover" programs let travelers explore between connecting flights .

What it's like to work with a life coach who charges $400 a month .

"Challengers" turned Zendaya and the cast into tennis stars .

Two lifestyle adjustments helped one woman lose 55 pounds .

But first: Power lunches are back, baby.

If this was forwarded to you, sign up here . Download Insider's app here.

This week's dispatch

Power hungry (literally).

It's no secret that many deals are made outside of the boardroom.

In 2013, Jeff Bezos famously secured The Washington Post for $250 million while traipsing around Hailey, Idaho during the Allen & Company Sun Valley Conference. That's where billionaires and other business types strike deals while competing in tennis matches, going on guided hikes, and yes, eating lunch.

You don't have to be a billionaire to capitalize on a midday meeting, though. Enter: the power lunch. (Or should I say "remember the power lunch"?)

As the call to return to the office slowly drags on, many are taking advantage of what can happen over a nice meal.

One BI reporter went to Cecconi's in West Hollywood to find out why the Soho House-owned restaurant has been a mainstay for power-lunchers for 15 years. Her review is the first of many stories that will dig into some of the hottest power-lunch spots across the country.

Although she had a mixed review of the menu, what remains true is that productivity isn't just reserved for the office.

Score a "stopover" flight

Need a vacation within your vacation? Some travelers make it happen by booking long layovers. That gives them time to leave the airport and explore for a few hours — or days — before the next flight.

Known as "stopover" programs, airlines benefit from this hack, too. Plus, the layovers can sometimes come with free or discounted hotels, excursions, transportation, and food at the layover destination.

How to book the long layovers .

You'll soon be able to get an automatic refund when your flight is delayed or canceled

It's time to invest in yourself

BI's investing correspondent finally took the advice she's written so much about and invested in herself. She spends $400 a month on a life coach, a splurge she said is some of the best money she's ever spent.

She and her coach have met weekly for the past nine months. The coach has helped her write speeches, navigate cross-country moves, and held her accountable for the things she wants to accomplish.

What it's like to hire a life coach .

From movie star to tennis star

"Challengers," a steamy new drama that premiered Friday, stars 27-year-old Zendaya, who transformed into a tennis pro for the film.

Tennis coach Brad Gilbert served as a consultant on the film, training Zendaya and her costars. He told BI what the cast endured — from spending hours playing tennis to packing on muscle — to play the part.

Everything it takes to become an on-screen tennis pro .

Easy lifestyle changes for weight loss

Megan Tjelle, a 29-year-old from Chicago, was athletic as a kid, but became less active after starting nursing school. Throughout her 20s, she said, her weight increased and her confidence sank.

In 2022, she made two small changes: eating a balanced diet in a calorie deficit, and gradually moving more. Over six months, through diet and walking alone, Tjelle lost 55 pounds.

How small changes can have big results .

I hate cottage cheese but I tried stirring it into my meals for an extra dose of protein. I felt my gym performance improve.

What we're watching this weekend

"MILF Manor": The second season of the controversial show — wherein moms date each other's sons — is even messier than the first. It's streaming on Hulu.

"The Doomsday Cult of Antares de la Luz": Former members of a Chilean cult speak out about their experiences in the new Netflix series.

"We're Here": In this wholesome Max series, famous drag queens travel to small-town America where they give out makeovers.

See the full list .

More of this week's top reads:

A billionaire's son shares how wealth affected how he dated and made friends .

The hottest hotel rooms right now are tents and RVs .

Differences between parenting in the US and Germany, according to an American mom .

A student studying abroad is shocked by how many lavish trips her peers take .

Following his brother's death, he decided to live a life of adventure .

Meet Tree Paine, the PR mastermind helping steer the massive Taylor Swift machine .

Cathay Pacific's first-class lounge will make you forget you're in an airport .

Traveling full-time isn't worth it, according to a woman who did it for nine months .

The Insider Today team: Joi-Marie McKenzie , editor-in-chief, in New York. Jordan Parker Erb , editor, in New York. Dan DeFrancesco , deputy editor and anchor, in New York. Lisa Ryan , executive editor, in New York.

Watch: Marriott International's Tina Edmundson tells Insider that the travel mindset has changed since the pandemic

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What the Hack: Die besten Tipps der Profis für unbeschwertes Reisen

Flugbegleiter Florian Schwebel ist auf Reisen gern für alle Fälle gewappnet. Hier verrät er seine besten Travel Hacks

In meinem Job habe ich eines schnell gelernt: Meistens braucht man nie all die Klamotten, die man in seinen Koffer gepackt hat. Deshalb wähle ich sehr bewusst aus, was ich mitnehme. Besonders dann, wenn ich wie so oft nur 24 Stunden an einem Ort bin.

Travel Hack #1: Jogsuit

Immer dabei habe ich einen „Jogsuit“ in einer Basicfarbe wie Grau oder Blau. So nennen sich Anzüge aus Jogginghosenstoff, die es von verschiedenen Marken gibt. Sie haben keine Bügelfalte, knittern nicht und sehen in Kombination mit Sneakern sehr lässig aus. Vor Ort kann man sie in die Waschmaschine stecken und ist sofort top gestylt, wenn man kurz nach der Ankunft abends noch ausgehen möchte.

Travel Hack #2: Longsleeve aus Merinowolle

Auf meiner Packliste steht auch immer ein Longsleeve aus Merinowolle. Das Material hat den Vorteil, dass es schweißresistent ist und die Temperatur gut regulieren kann. Das ist sehr praktisch, wenn man nicht weiß, welches Wetter einen vor Ort erwartet. Genauso wie eine superleichte, komprimierbare und wasserdichte Jacke, die sich zu einem kleinen Paket zusammenfalten lässt.

Travel Hack #3: Feuchtigkeitsspray

Damit ich nach einem langen Flug von Deutschland in die USA frisch und wach aussehe, sprühe ich mir gern Feuchtigkeitsspray ins Gesicht. Das wirkt Wunder. 

Travel Hack #4: Seesack

Auf Kurztrips habe ich statt eines Hartschalenkoffers meist nur einen kleinen Seesack dabei. Der lässt sich im Flugzeug leichter ins Gepäckfach knautschen. Und für den Fall, dass ich unterwegs Zeit zum Shoppen habe, habe ich immer eine zusammenfaltbare Mini-Reisetasche dabei. Man weiß ja nie, was man alles entdeckt.

Zur Person:

Florian Schwebel ist Flugbegleiter bei Lufthansa. Er reist sowohl interkontinental auf der Langstrecke als auch innerhalb Europas.

Bereit, die Welt zu entdecken?

Buchen Sie Ihren Flug und finden Sie neue Inspiration – wo auch immer die Reise hingehen mag.

​ ​Flug suchen

Turn Your Curiosity Into Discovery

Latest facts.

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40 facts about elektrostal.

Written by Lanette Mayes

Modified & Updated: 02 Mar 2024

Reviewed by Jessica Corbett

Elektrostal is a vibrant city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia. With a rich history, stunning architecture, and a thriving community, Elektrostal is a city that has much to offer. Whether you are a history buff, nature enthusiast, or simply curious about different cultures, Elektrostal is sure to captivate you.

This article will provide you with 40 fascinating facts about Elektrostal, giving you a better understanding of why this city is worth exploring. From its origins as an industrial hub to its modern-day charm, we will delve into the various aspects that make Elektrostal a unique and must-visit destination.

So, join us as we uncover the hidden treasures of Elektrostal and discover what makes this city a true gem in the heart of Russia.

Key Takeaways:

• Elektrostal, known as the “Motor City of Russia,” is a vibrant and growing city with a rich industrial history, offering diverse cultural experiences and a strong commitment to environmental sustainability.
• With its convenient location near Moscow, Elektrostal provides a picturesque landscape, vibrant nightlife, and a range of recreational activities, making it an ideal destination for residents and visitors alike.

Known as the “Motor City of Russia.”

Elektrostal, a city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia, earned the nickname “Motor City” due to its significant involvement in the automotive industry.

Home to the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Elektrostal is renowned for its metallurgical plant, which has been producing high-quality steel and alloys since its establishment in 1916.

Boasts a rich industrial heritage.

Elektrostal has a long history of industrial development, contributing to the growth and progress of the region.

Founded in 1916.

The city of Elektrostal was founded in 1916 as a result of the construction of the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Located approximately 50 kilometers east of Moscow.

Elektrostal is situated in close proximity to the Russian capital, making it easily accessible for both residents and visitors.

Known for its vibrant cultural scene.

Elektrostal is home to several cultural institutions, including museums, theaters, and art galleries that showcase the city’s rich artistic heritage.

A popular destination for nature lovers.

Surrounded by picturesque landscapes and forests, Elektrostal offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and birdwatching.

Hosts the annual Elektrostal City Day celebrations.

Every year, Elektrostal organizes festive events and activities to celebrate its founding, bringing together residents and visitors in a spirit of unity and joy.

Has a population of approximately 160,000 people.

Elektrostal is home to a diverse and vibrant community of around 160,000 residents, contributing to its dynamic atmosphere.

Boasts excellent education facilities.

The city is known for its well-established educational institutions, providing quality education to students of all ages.

A center for scientific research and innovation.

Elektrostal serves as an important hub for scientific research, particularly in the fields of metallurgy, materials science, and engineering.

Surrounded by picturesque lakes.

The city is blessed with numerous beautiful lakes, offering scenic views and recreational opportunities for locals and visitors alike.

Well-connected transportation system.

Elektrostal benefits from an efficient transportation network, including highways, railways, and public transportation options, ensuring convenient travel within and beyond the city.

Famous for its traditional Russian cuisine.

Food enthusiasts can indulge in authentic Russian dishes at numerous restaurants and cafes scattered throughout Elektrostal.

Home to notable architectural landmarks.

Elektrostal boasts impressive architecture, including the Church of the Transfiguration of the Lord and the Elektrostal Palace of Culture.

Offers a wide range of recreational facilities.

Residents and visitors can enjoy various recreational activities, such as sports complexes, swimming pools, and fitness centers, enhancing the overall quality of life.

Provides a high standard of healthcare.

Elektrostal is equipped with modern medical facilities, ensuring residents have access to quality healthcare services.

Home to the Elektrostal History Museum.

The Elektrostal History Museum showcases the city’s fascinating past through exhibitions and displays.

A hub for sports enthusiasts.

Elektrostal is passionate about sports, with numerous stadiums, arenas, and sports clubs offering opportunities for athletes and spectators.

Celebrates diverse cultural festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal hosts a variety of cultural festivals, celebrating different ethnicities, traditions, and art forms.

Electric power played a significant role in its early development.

Elektrostal owes its name and initial growth to the establishment of electric power stations and the utilization of electricity in the industrial sector.

Boasts a thriving economy.

The city’s strong industrial base, coupled with its strategic location near Moscow, has contributed to Elektrostal’s prosperous economic status.

Houses the Elektrostal Drama Theater.

The Elektrostal Drama Theater is a cultural centerpiece, attracting theater enthusiasts from far and wide.

Popular destination for winter sports.

Elektrostal’s proximity to ski resorts and winter sport facilities makes it a favorite destination for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities.

Promotes environmental sustainability.

Elektrostal prioritizes environmental protection and sustainability, implementing initiatives to reduce pollution and preserve natural resources.

Home to renowned educational institutions.

Elektrostal is known for its prestigious schools and universities, offering a wide range of academic programs to students.

Committed to cultural preservation.

The city values its cultural heritage and takes active steps to preserve and promote traditional customs, crafts, and arts.

Hosts an annual International Film Festival.

The Elektrostal International Film Festival attracts filmmakers and cinema enthusiasts from around the world, showcasing a diverse range of films.

Encourages entrepreneurship and innovation.

Elektrostal supports aspiring entrepreneurs and fosters a culture of innovation, providing opportunities for startups and business development.

Offers a range of housing options.

Elektrostal provides diverse housing options, including apartments, houses, and residential complexes, catering to different lifestyles and budgets.

Home to notable sports teams.

Elektrostal is proud of its sports legacy, with several successful sports teams competing at regional and national levels.

Boasts a vibrant nightlife scene.

Residents and visitors can enjoy a lively nightlife in Elektrostal, with numerous bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.

Promotes cultural exchange and international relations.

Elektrostal actively engages in international partnerships, cultural exchanges, and diplomatic collaborations to foster global connections.

Surrounded by beautiful nature reserves.

Nearby nature reserves, such as the Barybino Forest and Luchinskoye Lake, offer opportunities for nature enthusiasts to explore and appreciate the region’s biodiversity.

Commemorates historical events.

The city pays tribute to significant historical events through memorials, monuments, and exhibitions, ensuring the preservation of collective memory.

Promotes sports and youth development.

Elektrostal invests in sports infrastructure and programs to encourage youth participation, health, and physical fitness.

Hosts annual cultural and artistic festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal celebrates its cultural diversity through festivals dedicated to music, dance, art, and theater.

Provides a picturesque landscape for photography enthusiasts.

The city’s scenic beauty, architectural landmarks, and natural surroundings make it a paradise for photographers.

Connects to Moscow via a direct train line.

The convenient train connection between Elektrostal and Moscow makes commuting between the two cities effortless.

A city with a bright future.

Elektrostal continues to grow and develop, aiming to become a model city in terms of infrastructure, sustainability, and quality of life for its residents.

In conclusion, Elektrostal is a fascinating city with a rich history and a vibrant present. From its origins as a center of steel production to its modern-day status as a hub for education and industry, Elektrostal has plenty to offer both residents and visitors. With its beautiful parks, cultural attractions, and proximity to Moscow, there is no shortage of things to see and do in this dynamic city. Whether you’re interested in exploring its historical landmarks, enjoying outdoor activities, or immersing yourself in the local culture, Elektrostal has something for everyone. So, next time you find yourself in the Moscow region, don’t miss the opportunity to discover the hidden gems of Elektrostal.

Q: What is the population of Elektrostal?

A: As of the latest data, the population of Elektrostal is approximately XXXX.

Q: How far is Elektrostal from Moscow?

A: Elektrostal is located approximately XX kilometers away from Moscow.

Q: Are there any famous landmarks in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to several notable landmarks, including XXXX and XXXX.

Q: What industries are prominent in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal is known for its steel production industry and is also a center for engineering and manufacturing.

Q: Are there any universities or educational institutions in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to XXXX University and several other educational institutions.

Q: What are some popular outdoor activities in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal offers several outdoor activities, such as hiking, cycling, and picnicking in its beautiful parks.

Q: Is Elektrostal well-connected in terms of transportation?

A: Yes, Elektrostal has good transportation links, including trains and buses, making it easily accessible from nearby cities.

Q: Are there any annual events or festivals in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, including XXXX and XXXX.

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