When it comes to packing for a flight, those of us with curly hair are faced with the dilemma of downsizing our multiple-product regimens. While it may seem like a daunting task, following TSA regulations when packing for flights can allow for a simplified packing list, and more room for clothes and souvenirs!
These are our top tips for air travel beauty.
How to pack for air travel
1. Zip Top Bags
TSA suggests that you prepare for packing by placing all liquids in a clear bag with a zip top. This could be something as simple and cheap as a large Ziploc bag, or you can easily find TSA-approved bags made of sturdier plastic for under $10.00. These bags will prevent spills and can be quickly wiped down if necessary.
2. Travel Kits
Many hair product travel kits are designed perfectly for curlies! The Rizos Curls travel kit offers a shampoo, conditioner, curl cream, and their popular Refresh spray line. It even comes in a TSA-friendly clear zip top bag!
DevaCurl offers a great set that includes a conditioning cleanser, a conditioner, a defining gel, and a styling cream.
The Uncle Funky’s Daughter set includes five more “snack-size” products for kinkier textures: a conditioner, a leave-in spray, supercurl, extra butter, curl stimulator, and refresh spray. This kit also comes in a clear zip-top bag.
3. Solid shampoo
Opt for a solid shampoo to simplify your packing further and completely bypass liquid regulations!
For type 3 and 4 hair, the NaturallyCurly editors recommend As I Am and Pure Rootss! Both are ultra-convenient, ultra-moisturizing options!
4. Travel bottles
If there is not a travel-sized option to be found for your must-have products, it is very easy to find TSA-approved bottles that you can fill with liquids, creams, and sprays.
5. Travel-Sized Tools
Arm yourself with travel-sized hair tools! The Pattern Travel-sized Brush is perfect for detangling.
6. Mini Styling Set
Pack along a mini hair styling set, such as the Curlsmith Defrizzion Dryer, comes with a travel bag, back stand, diffuser, and comb attachment.
You could also bring the lightweight Shark XSKHD4DA FlexStyle Curl-Defining Diffuser instead, which you can easily fit over a hair dryer at a hotel or friend’s house to create a diffusing effect.
7. International Adapters
Traveling internationally? Prepare with an international travel adapter plug, so you can still use your favorite styling tools! The universal travel power adapter includes four different plugs that nest together into a small, single unit to make sure you have portable power wherever you go.
8. Hair Gloves
If you wish to avoid heat styling altogether, make sure to bring a hair glove to scrunch your curls and speed up the natural drying process! You don’t want to use rough hotel towels on your hair, so Curl Keepr offers quick drying globes, an anti-frizz hair drying glove perfect to avoid breakage and keep your hair smooth.
Where are you traveling to this season, and what curly products will you be taking along? Safe travels to all!