Travel Tips: Styling Your Hair on the Go

Travelling shouldn't mean sacrificing your hair styling routine. Whether you're heading overseas for a holiday, attending a destination wedding, or travelling for business, maintaining great hair on the road is absolutely achievable with the right preparation and know-how.

This guide covers everything from voltage considerations to packing strategies, helping you look your best wherever your travels take you.

Understanding Voltage and Plug Types

Electrical standards vary around the world, and using incompatible tools can be dangerous. Before travelling internationally, you need to understand two key factors: voltage and plug type.

Voltage Differences

Australia uses 230V electricity. Many other countries use different voltages:

230-240V: Australia, New Zealand, UK, Europe, most of Asia
110-120V: USA, Canada, Mexico, Japan, some Central American countries

Using a 230V appliance on a 110V supply will result in very weak performance—your curling iron will barely heat. Using a 110V appliance on a 230V supply is dangerous and can cause the device to overheat, short circuit, or catch fire.

Dual Voltage Tools

Many modern styling tools are dual voltage (often marked "100-240V" on the device or cord). These automatically adjust to local voltage and can be used worldwide with just a plug adapter. If you travel frequently, investing in a dual voltage curling iron is highly recommended.

⚠️ Check Before You Go

Always check your curling iron's voltage rating before travelling. This information is usually printed on a label near the plug or on the barrel. "100-240V" or "Dual Voltage" means worldwide compatible. A single voltage like "230V" means Australian use only.

Plug Adapters vs Voltage Converters

These are different things:

Plug adapters change the plug shape so you can physically connect to foreign outlets. They do NOT change voltage.
Voltage converters actually change the electrical voltage. However, most are not designed for high-wattage heating tools and can be unreliable.

The safest solution is a dual voltage tool with a simple plug adapter. Avoid relying on voltage converters for curling irons.

Choosing Travel-Friendly Tools

When shopping for travel styling tools, look for these features:

Essential Features

Dual voltage (100-240V): Works worldwide
Compact size: Saves luggage space
Fast heat-up: Saves time in hotel rooms
Auto shut-off: Safety feature for peace of mind
Heat-resistant pouch: For safe packing while still warm

Mini and Travel-Sized Options

Several brands offer compact versions of their popular styling tools specifically designed for travel. These typically have shorter barrels and cords but deliver the same performance as full-sized versions. They're particularly useful for carry-on luggage.

💡 Carry-On Consideration

Curling irons and styling tools are generally allowed in both carry-on and checked luggage. However, cordless tools with lithium batteries may have restrictions. Always check current airline regulations before packing, as rules can change.

Packing Your Styling Tools

Proper packing protects your tools and keeps your luggage organized.

Heat-Resistant Cases

A heat-resistant pouch or case allows you to pack your curling iron shortly after use without worrying about it melting other items. Many tools come with these included, or you can purchase them separately. Silicone mats also work well and can double as a heat-safe surface for styling.

Packing Tips

Allow the tool to cool for at least 5 minutes before placing in a heat-resistant pouch
Wrap the cord neatly to prevent tangles and damage
Place styling tools in the centre of your luggage, cushioned by clothing
Keep plug adapters with your styling tools so you don't forget them
Consider a dedicated toiletry bag for all your styling supplies

Hotel Room Styling Tips

Hotel bathrooms present unique challenges for styling. Here's how to navigate them:

Finding Power Outlets

Some hotel bathrooms have outlets only for shavers (low wattage), which won't power a curling iron. Look for outlets in the main room near the desk or vanity area. If you're styling in the bathroom, use an extension cord if needed.

Dealing with Poor Lighting

Hotel bathroom lighting is often unflattering and inadequate for styling. If possible, set up near a window for natural light, or bring a small travel mirror that you can position in better light.

Creating a Styling Station

Clear a space on the desk or vanity. Lay down a heat-resistant mat or towel to protect surfaces. Set up your products and tools before you start heating your iron.

✨ Hotel Hack

If your hotel has a fitness centre with a changing room, it often has better mirrors, outlets, and counter space than standard hotel bathrooms. Some travellers find these spaces ideal for getting ready.

Quick Styling for Busy Travel Days

When time is limited, focus on the sections that make the biggest impact:

The 5-Minute Refresh

Heat your curling iron while you do other prep
Curl only the face-framing pieces (front sections on each side)
Add a few curls to the top layer for movement
Leave the underlayers—they won't show
Finish with a light texturising spray

This creates the illusion of a fully styled head in a fraction of the time.

Heat-Free Alternatives

Consider these options for days when you can't or don't want to heat style:

Braiding damp hair overnight: Creates natural waves by morning
Sock or robe tie curls: Wrap damp hair around soft fabric and sleep on it
Twist buns: Twist damp sections into buns, let dry, release for waves
Headband curls: Wrap hair around a headband and sleep in it

Product Essentials for Travel

Pack smart with these essentials:

Must-Haves

Heat protectant: Decant into a travel-sized spray bottle
Dry shampoo: Extends styles between washes
Texturising spray: Adds grip and refresh
Mini hairspray: Travel-sized finishing spray
Hair ties and clips: For sectioning and quick fixes

Decanting Products

For air travel, liquids must be under 100ml for carry-on. Invest in a set of reusable travel bottles and decant your favourite products. Label everything clearly—products can look identical in small containers.

Climate Considerations

Different destinations present different hair challenges:

Humid Destinations

Tropical locations and humid climates are tough on curls. Pack anti-humidity products and accept that looser, more relaxed styles may be more practical than tight curls. Consider embracing natural texture enhanced with sea salt spray.

Dry Climates

Desert and high-altitude destinations can make hair static and brittle. Bring extra conditioning products and a hydrating hair oil to counteract dryness.

Beach Holidays

Salt water and sun exposure are hard on hair. Bring a leave-in conditioner with UV protection. Rinse hair after swimming and keep styling to a minimum on beach days.

Emergency Fixes

Things don't always go to plan while travelling. Here are some quick fixes:

No curling iron available: Use the flat iron in the hotel (if provided) to create waves by twisting sections as you glide through
Frizz emergency: A tiny amount of hand lotion smoothed over flyaways works in a pinch
Flat roots: Clip hair at the roots for 10 minutes after styling for lift
Product ran out: Many hotels offer basic styling products on request

The key to great travel hair is flexibility. Accept that your routine will look different on the road, pack strategically, and embrace styles that work with your travel lifestyle rather than fighting against it.