Table of Contents
Sunscreen? Check!
New swimsuit? Packed Away!
Comfy sandals? Of course!
A hairstyle that will keep you looking good during your next vacation? Um… not quite.
Girls…. I am an 80’s hairstyle kind-of-girl. I like nice, voluminous styled hair. With the very limited time while on holiday, I don’t want to be spending my time in the hotel room primping. There’s no time to stress over your hairstyles when you only have a few days to take in the sights. I’m hoping to help you become savvy travelers and plan ahead to save time and hairaches 🤣.
“Say goodbye to bad hair days on vacation by planning your vacation hair!”
No Bad Hair Days in Paradise!
With the right products and styling techniques, you can create a look that is both stylish and comfortable. Whether you’re looking for a beachy wave, a sleek updo, or something in between, plan your hairstyle beforehand. Every snapshot from your trip to paradise will be one to put on the digital frame.
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hairstyles for vacation
1. Braided crown
Create a beautiful braided crown by French braiding one or two sections of hair from the sides and joining them at the back.
2. Messy bun
Opt for a casual and chic look by styling your hair into a messy bun. It’s effortless and perfect for a day at the beach or strolling in the city. To create, pull hair up with a rubber band, leaving some of the hair out, and wrap it again. While holding the bun, pull the hair around the sides to create a looser effect.
3. Embrace wet hairstyles
If you’re near water or spending a lot of time at the beach or pool, embrace wet hairstyles. Apply some leave-in conditioner or hair oil, comb through your hair, and let it air dry naturally. Consider using SheaMoisture Curl Mousse which helps with frizz control. See in Shop My Favorites.
4. Beach waves
Achieve natural-looking waves by spritzing salt water or using a texturizing spray, then scrunching your hair with your hands.
Use a heating tool like the Bed Head A Wave We Go or the travel curling iron in our Shop My Favorites. When I use this tool my beach waves last for 2-3 days. If traveling to another country, make sure your heating tool has the dual voltage, if needed.
Braid hair loosely at night. In the morning take out the braids and use a light hairspray to set the style.
5. Hat with a ponytail
Combine style and practicality by wearing a hat and securing your hair in a low ponytail at the nape of your neck.
6. Dry shampoo
When you get up in the morning and you need to be out the door quickly, spray on the dry shampoo mainly around your roots. Dry shampoo can soak up any oily hair and provide a bit of volume too. There are several different types available. Consider a dry shampoo to match the color of your hair as well.
7. Scarf updo
Tie a colorful scarf around your hairline and twist your hair into a low bun or a high-top knot.
8. Side braid
Sweep your hair to one side and create a loose, romantic braid for an elegant and carefree look.
9. Half-up, half-down
Gather the top half of your hair and secure it with a clip or elastic, leaving the rest of your hair flowing.
10. Rinse your hair with cold water
Hot water can strip your hair of its natural oils, leaving it dry and brittle. After swimming in the ocean or pool, rinse your hair with cold water to help keep it hydrated and protected.
11. Hats, hats, hats!
One of the easiest and fastest ways to get out the door while on vacation and to still look stylish is to throw on a hat.
Be sure you have enough room in your luggage. Large beach hats are best taken in the car to the beach. While berets, beanies, or foldable hats can go into the suitcase. Take a couple with you so that you have different looks for your photos!
12. Adding volume
If you would like to put your hair up, but you have short or medium-length hair; consider adding a Christie Brinkley hair wrap (see below and Shop My Favorites). I have used these wraps several times while on vacation. I just put my hair in a ponytail and put the hair wrap around my ponytail, once or twice, depending on how messy I want my bun. Secure with a couple of bobby pins, if needed. Voila!
13. High ponytail
Pull your hair up into a high ponytail for a sleek and stylish hairstyle that keeps your hair off your face. For added volume, tease your hair slightly before pulling it back.
14. Headband
Create a quick stylish hairdo with the right accessories. Using a headband can create a whole different look. When putting on your headband for long, medium or short hair, pull hair out from under the headband around your face area. This creates a more wistful look.
15. Sleek and straight
Straighten your hair for a polished and sophisticated look that works well for any occasion. The curling iron that I am suggesting in Shop My Favorites is dual voltage and a straightener too! A win-win!
16. Use a leave-in conditioner
For those wonderfully sunny vacations, a leave-in conditioner will help keep your hair hydrated and protected from the sun’s rays. Look for one that contains UV protection and apply it to your hair before you go out in the sun. See our suggested It’s A 10 Haircare Miracle Leave-In Conditioner Spray in Shop My Favorites.
Share your best advice and pics to let us know how you travel in style!
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Easy haircut styles
I really like the sound of a half up and down style but my hair isn’t long enough yet. I find that having my hair braided or in other protective styles also works well for vacays. Great post!
Thank you, Riyah! Yes, braiding is great on vacation!
I love all these options! When I’m traveling I like my hair out of my face but in a cute way so these are some awesome ways to go.
Thanks, Tracy! I agree! I usually like my hair up, so I don’t have to fuss with it throughout the day.
Loved the article, going to purchase the items for my hair. Traveling soon.
Thank you, Lynn! I hope you like the products! Enjoy your trip!
I love these styles, especially the messy bun when traveling. Thank you for sharing…I’ll have to try one of the other suggestions on my next trip!
Thanks for stopping by, Jasmine! I’m a messy bun kind of girl, too! Enjoy your next trip!