18 Airplane Travel Hairstyles That Avoid Damage
Let’s be honest: airplane air is the ultimate enemy of good hair. That recycled, ultra-dry cabin air sucks the moisture right out of your strands, leaving you with a frizzy, static-filled mess upon landing. Combine that with hours spent leaning against a headrest, and you have a recipe for breakage, tangles, and a seriously bad hair day at your destination.
Why You Need a Protective Hairstyle for Flying
Before we dive into the styles, it’s crucial to understand why your usual hair routine fails in the air. The cabin environment has humidity levels lower than most deserts, often below 20%. This causes the hair cuticle to lift, making it prone to moisture loss, frizz, and static electricity. Furthermore, constant shifting and rubbing against seats (especially fabric ones) creates friction that leads to split ends and breakage. A good travel hairstyle acts as a shield, keeping your hair contained, moisturized, and away from harm.
The Golden Rules of Travel Hair
Follow these simple rules to maximize protection. First, avoid tight tension. Styles that pull too hard on the scalp or hairline can cause traction alopecia over time. Second, use gentle, snag-free accessories like spiral hair ties, silk scrunchies, or fabric-covered bands. Third, consider applying a light leave-in conditioner or hair oil before styling to create a barrier against dryness. Now, let’s get styling!
Low & Loose Styles
Perfect for maximizing comfort without sacrificing polish, these styles are quick to create and easy to sleep in.
1. The Low Twisted Bun: Gather hair at the nape of your neck, twist it loosely, and wrap it into a soft bun. Secure with a scrunchie. The loose twist prevents kinks while keeping hair completely contained.
2. The Silk-Scarfed Ponytail: A low ponytail with a silk or satin scarf tied over it. This protects the length from friction and adds a major style point.
3. Loose Braided Ponytail: Create a low ponytail, then braid the length. This combines the containment of a ponytail with the tangle-prevention of a braid.
4. The Hidden Pony: Make a half-ponytail, then create a second ponytail below it, incorporating the first tail. It’s secure, off your neck, and avoids a single pressure point.
Braided Bliss
Braids are the undisputed champions of travel hair. They minimize tangles, distribute hair evenly, and can last for days.
5. Classic Low Braid: A simple, loose three-strand braid over one shoulder or down your back. Pro tip: Braid slightly damp hair with a bit of cream to enhance waves when you take it out.
6. Double Dutch Braids: These inside-out braids lie flat against the head, perfect for leaning back. They also distribute weight evenly, preventing headache-inducing pull.
7. Rope Braid Ponytail: Twist two sections of hair around each other to form a elegant, textured braid. It’s less bulky than a traditional braid and just as protective.
8. Crown Braid: A halo of braids keeps every strand perfectly in place and off your face and neck. It looks intricate but is easier than you think with a little practice.
9. Fishtail Braid: A looser, more bohemian option. The interwoven pattern is stunning and effectively prevents the hair from moving around freely.
Updos & Buns
For complete containment and a touch of elegance, these updos are your go-to.
10. The Claw Clip Bun: Twist your hair and secure it with a large, gentle claw clip—not a tight elastic. This eliminates tension and is incredibly easy to redo.
11. The Nautilus Bun: A trendy, self-holding bun that uses only a single hair pin or stick. It creates minimal pressure points and looks effortlessly cool.
12. Space Buns: Divide hair into two high sections and create loose buns. Surprisingly protective, they keep hair completely secured and are fun for long flights.
13. The Gibson Tuck: A vintage, elegant style where the ends of your hair are tucked under itself at the nape. It’s smooth, secure, and requires no elastics.
For Short Hair & Protective Accessories
Short hair needs love too! And accessories can be a game-changer for all lengths.
14. Silk Headband & Waves: A wide silk headband tames flyaways, absorbs oil, and protects your hairline from friction against the seat.
15. Pineapple for Curls: For curly hair, gather hair into a very loose, high ponytail on top of your head (the “pineapple”) using a silk scrunchie. This preserves curl pattern and volume.
16. Twisted Headband Style: Take two front sections, twist them back, and secure them at the crown with a clip. This keeps shorter layers off the face stylishly.
17. The Complete Silk Wrap: The ultimate protection. Style hair in loose twists or braids, then cover entirely with a large silk or satin scarf. Zero friction, maximum moisture retention.
18. Buff or Tubular Headwear: These versatile fabric tubes can be worn as a headband, scarf, or even a loose cap, providing an all-over protective layer.
Post-Flight Hair Revival Tips
Once you land, gently take down your style. Never yank out pins or elastics. Use your fingers or a wide-tooth comb to detangle, starting from the ends. If your hair still feels dry, a light mist of a hydrating spray or a tiny drop of oil rubbed between your palms and smoothed over the ends will work wonders. The goal is to arrive with hair that’s ready to style, not desperate for repair.
Fly High with Healthy Hair
Traveling doesn’t have to mean sacrificing your hair health. By choosing one of these 18 airplane travel hairstyles, you’re actively protecting your strands from the harsh cabin environment. You’ll not only avoid damage and tangles but also step off the plane looking refreshed, put-together, and ready to explore your destination. So, pack your silk scrunchies, practice that braid, and prepare for your best hair travel experience yet. Bon voyage and happy styling!
