Ever notice that your hair has a mind of its own the minute you step out of town? I mean, it’s almost a running joke: you prep for a big trip, fill your bag with outfits worthy of travel selfies, and then—bam—humidity turns your bangs into antennae and the hotel hair dryer makes you look like you stuck your head out the window on the highway. But hey, messy travel hair happens to the best of us. With a little prep (and a few pro tricks), you can keep your hair looking awesome whether you’re backpacking through Europe or hustling through airport security.

Pack Like a Pro (And Ditch the Full Bottles)

Let’s be real: no one wants to drag a suitcase full of hair products through customs. Pick the MVPs—travel sizes or reusable bottles. Focus on what you’ll actually use. Dry shampoo? Lifesaver when showers are spotty. Leave-in conditioner? An absolute game changer if you’re headed somewhere dry, sunny, or with pool action. Stash a few hair ties, bobby pins, and a travel brush—your future self, running late for a tour bus, will thank you.

Weatherproof Your Style

You’ll want to check the forecast before you go. Humidity? Go light on the styling creams and heavy gels—too much product can actually make things worse, not better. Instead, try an anti-frizz serum and embrace styles that play nicely with the weather. Braids, messy buns, or a relaxed ponytail will always look chic (and let’s face it, are easier than fighting for perfection in a tiny hotel bathroom). Going cold? Static is your enemy. Tame those flyaways with a little hand lotion (yep, just rub a smidge on your palms and smooth flyaways).

The Kenna Kennor Travel Philosophy

Kenna Kennor, if you haven’t discovered him already, is one of those celebrity hairstylists who just gets travel hair. He’s worked with too many A-listers to count, but what’s great is his knack for realistic advice. Kenna’s pro tip on the go? Work with what your hair wants to do in that new environment, not against it. Instead of trying to force your usual style, he suggests leaning into natural texture—think loose waves by the beach, or chunky, lived-in looks in damp places. In interviews, he’s even mentioned twisting damp hair into a low bun and letting it air dry while you explore—unwrap later, and voila, soft, effortless waves. No flat iron or diffuser required.

Easy Routines That Actually Last

You’re on vacation to enjoy yourself, not babysit your hair. Swap daily washes for every other day to avoid stripping your hair’s natural oils—plus, it honestly saves precious vacation time. If you spend the day sightseeing, spritz a little dry shampoo in before bed, give your scalp a quick massage, and wake up with fresh roots. For longer trips, pick up all-in-one travel products, like a combined shampoo and conditioner, or a leave-in that doubles as a styling cream.

Don’t Forget Local Inspiration

Peek at what’s on the shelves where you’re staying, especially in different countries. You might discover a new holy-grail product you’d never have tried at home. And when in doubt, ask locals or your hotel staff how they handle the weather’s hair curveballs—they’re pros at this!

The Bottom Line: Relax and Go With It

Not every travel day will be a runway moment, and that’s fine. Focus on comfort, embrace a little imperfection, and make those easy routines your new best friends. Trust me—it’s the smile in your vacation pics they’ll remember, not the one rogue curl. Safe travels (and even better hair days ahead)!