Travel is all about adventure, but let’s be honest—your hair shouldn’t be one of them. There’s nothing worse than spending hours styling, only to have humidity, wind, or an uncomfortable headrest ruin it in minutes. Who has time for that when there are places to explore?
The perfect travel hairstyle is one that looks good, stays good, and doesn’t require a suitcase full of products to maintain. Whether you’re racing through airports, sightseeing for hours, or lounging on a beach, you need something that holds up without constant touch-ups.
From effortless braids to chic buns and low-maintenance waves, these 17 travel-ready hairstyles will keep you looking fresh from takeoff to touchdown. Because the last thing you should worry about on your trip is a bad hair day!
Messy Bun
The messy bun is a travel essential, combining style with practicality. Begin by gathering your hair into a high ponytail and securing it with an elastic band.
Twist the ponytail around its base, creating a loose bun. Secure it with bobby pins, leaving a few strands loose for an effortless look.
This hairstyle is ideal for long travel days when you want to keep your hair off your face and neck. Its relaxed vibe is perfect for exploring new cities or enjoying a day at the beach. Pack some hairpins in your travel kit to keep this style intact.
French Braid
The French braid is both classic and functional, making it a perfect travel companion. Start by dividing your hair into three sections at the crown of your head.
Begin braiding, incorporating more hair as you go along. This technique keeps your hair secure and tidy, ideal for active days involving hiking or sightseeing.
French braids work well for all hair types and lengths, offering a chic solution to frizz and flyaways. Their elegance complements any outfit, from casual to sophisticated, ensuring you’re always tour-ready. With practice, you’ll master this timeless braid quickly.
Beach Waves
Beach waves offer a carefree, effortless style, perfect for seaside vacations. To achieve this look, apply a sea salt spray to damp hair, scrunching the ends with your fingers.
Let your hair air-dry for natural texture or use a diffuser for added volume. Beach waves provide a relaxed, tousled appearance that suits both day and night outings.
This hairstyle is ideal for low-maintenance travelers who embrace natural beauty. It’s versatile enough to pair with any beachwear or evening attire, making it a must-try for your next coastal adventure.
Top Knot
The top knot is a chic, go-to hairstyle for travelers seeking both elegance and ease. Begin by pulling your hair into a high ponytail. Twist the ponytail tightly, wrapping it around its base, and secure it with bobby pins.
This hairstyle exudes sophistication and is perfect for any occasion, from casual sightseeing to a formal dinner.
The top knot is particularly useful for keeping hair neat in humid climates or windy conditions. Its polished look complements any outfit, allowing you to transition seamlessly from day to night activities.
Ponytail with a Twist
Elevate a standard ponytail with a simple twist for a stylish, travel-friendly look. Start by dividing your ponytail into two sections. Twist each section individually, then twist them together to form a rope-like effect. Secure the twist with an elastic band.
This hairstyle is quick and easy, perfect for busy travel days. The twisted ponytail adds a touch of flair to your appearance, suitable for both casual outings and more adventurous endeavors.
It’s an excellent choice for those who want to keep their hair tidy while adding a unique element to their style.
Fishtail Braid
The fishtail braid offers a trendy yet practical option for travelers. Divide your hair into two sections, taking a small piece from the outer edge of one section and crossing it over to the other. Repeat this process, alternating sides, until you reach the end.
Secure with a band. This intricate braid holds up against wind and movement, making it ideal for active days.
Its unique pattern adds visual interest to your look, setting you apart in any crowd. Whether you’re exploring urban landscapes or rural trails, the fishtail braid is a stylish choice.
Half-Up Bun
The half-up bun is a versatile style blending casual and chic elements. Begin by sectioning off the top half of your hair and pulling it into a ponytail. Twist the ponytail and wrap it into a bun, securing with pins.
This hairstyle keeps hair out of your face while allowing the rest to flow freely. It’s perfect for adapting to various travel settings, from sightseeing to lounging.
The half-up bun is a great way to showcase earrings and works well with layered outfits, offering a relaxed yet put-together look that’s easy to maintain.
Low Braided Bun
The low braided bun combines elegance with practicality, ideal for travelers attending more formal events. Start by creating a braid with the lower section of your hair. Wrap the braid into a bun at the nape of your neck, securing with pins.
This hairstyle maintains a tidy appearance throughout the day, even during long travels. Its graceful look suits any formal occasion, from weddings to upscale dinners.
The low braided bun is perfect for those seeking a refined hairstyle that requires minimal touch-ups, ensuring you remain polished and comfortable on your journey.
Loose Waves
Loose waves offer a relaxed, natural style suitable for any travel itinerary. Achieve this look by curling sections of your hair with a curling iron and gently brushing them out for a softer wave. This hairstyle is versatile, complementing both casual daywear and elegant evening outfits.
Loose waves are perfect for those who want to enhance their natural texture with minimal effort. They adapt well to different environments, from beach settings to urban adventures, making them a travel-friendly choice.
Keep a travel-sized hairspray handy to maintain the waves throughout the day.
Side Braid
The side braid is a simple yet stylish option for travelers seeking convenience and flair. Start by gathering your hair to one side and dividing it into three sections. Braid the sections, securing with an elastic band at the end.
This style keeps hair neatly out of the way, ideal for active days spent biking or exploring. The side braid provides a touch of youthful charm, suitable for any travel destination.
It pairs well with casual attire and adds a playful element to your look, ensuring you’re ready for any travel adventure.
Braided Headband
A braided headband offers a chic way to keep hair off your face while traveling. Begin by creating a small braid on one side of your head. Bring it across the top of your head, securing with pins behind the ear.
This hairstyle doubles as a practical accessory, adding interest to any outfit. The braided headband is perfect for windy days or when you want to highlight your facial features.
It’s a creative solution to tame flyaways and can be easily styled with minimal effort. Enjoy a stylish journey with this unique look.
Sleek Ponytail
The sleek ponytail is a modern, sophisticated style perfect for urban travelers. To achieve this look, apply smoothing serum to your hair and brush it into a high ponytail. Secure with an elastic band and smooth any flyaways for a polished finish.
This hairstyle exudes confidence and is suitable for both professional settings and evening events.
The sleek ponytail is adaptable to various climates, maintaining its crisp appearance throughout the day. It’s an excellent choice for travelers who want a no-fuss, elegant look that complements any outfit, ensuring you make a stylish impression wherever you go.
Double Dutch Braids
Double Dutch braids are a practical and stylish choice for active travelers. Divide your hair into two sections, creating a Dutch braid on each side by crossing sections under instead of over. Secure the braids with elastics.
This hairstyle keeps hair secure and manageable, ideal for hiking, biking, or other outdoor activities.
The double braids add a sporty element to your look, perfect for adventurous spirits. They also help prevent tangles and are easy to manage, making them a reliable option for long travel days. Enjoy exploring with this dynamic hairstyle.
Waterfall Braid
The waterfall braid is a romantic, intricate style well-suited for special travel moments. Create this look by braiding one section across the back of your head, letting sections of hair fall through like cascading water. Secure with pins or an elastic band.
This braid adds a touch of elegance to your appearance, perfect for romantic dinners or cultural excursions.
It’s an excellent choice for those who want a sophisticated hairstyle that stands out. The waterfall braid is both eye-catching and functional, keeping hair in place while allowing for a delicate, flowing effect.
Low Ponytail
The low ponytail offers a classic, understated look ideal for any travel setting. Gather your hair at the nape of your neck and secure with an elastic band. This simple style is perfect for days when you want a neat and polished appearance with minimal effort.
The low ponytail pairs well with both casual wear and more refined outfits, providing versatility for various travel experiences.
It’s an excellent option for travelers seeking comfort and simplicity, ensuring you remain stylish throughout your journey. Enhance the look with a ribbon or hair accessory for added flair.
Crown Braid
The crown braid is an eye-catching, bohemian style that’s perfect for festival-goers and free spirits. Start by creating a Dutch braid along your hairline, continuing around your head until you form a crown. Secure with pins.
This hairstyle is not only visually striking but also practical, keeping hair secure and off your face in crowded settings.
The crown braid complements flowy dresses and festival outfits, adding a whimsical touch to your look. It’s an excellent choice for travelers who enjoy standing out while maintaining a functional and stylish appearance during their adventures.
Sleek Low Bun
The sleek low bun is a timeless choice that exudes elegance and sophistication. It is simple to achieve and perfect for both business and leisure travelers.
To create this look, smooth your hair back into a low ponytail at the nape of your neck. Twist the ponytail into a bun and secure it with bobby pins.
This hairstyle is versatile, suiting both formal and casual settings.
It provides a polished look that doesn’t require frequent touch-ups. The sleek low bun stays intact even in breezy conditions, ensuring you look put-together from start to finish.