Traveling the World with Hair Extensions

Laura Beck
Feb 21, 2025
4 min read

My Best Travel Hair Hacks, from Iceland waters to the African bush and everything in-between

I’ve had many kinds of hair extensions throughout the years, but the one I’ve found best—not only for my hair health but also for maintaining gorgeous results while traveling—is IBE (Invisible Bead Extensions). Unlike other methods, IBE stays secure without causing damage to my natural hair, making it the perfect choice for an active lifestyle.

With IBE, you never have to worry about them falling out mid-adventure or constantly adjusting them when getting ready for a night out.

Traveling with IBE hair extensions takes a little extra care, but with the right routine, you can keep your hair looking flawless from Icelandic hot springs to long-haul flights and African safaris.

So lets dive into how I protect my extensions from tangles, dryness, and damage while on the go.

Swimming in Icelandic waters, the Jersey beach or Surfing Caribbean waves.

In places like Iceland's Blue Lagoon, the sulfate-rich waters can discolor hair, especially if it’s color-treated (mainly blond). While many visitors avoid getting their hair wet, pre-wetting it is actually beneficial—this trick works for any pool or beach day, too!

Here’s my pre-swim routine:

Brush Out Knots – Start with smooth, tangle-free hair using a loop brush or soft bristle brush.

Create a Protective Spray – In a small spray bottle, mix equal parts leave-in conditioner and water. Shake well.
Dampen Your Hair – Spray generously to saturate your hair with protective spray. This prevents it from absorbing harsh minerals or chlorine.
Secure Hair – Use a rip tie hair tie (gentle on extensions) or secure your hair in a bun or braid.
Reapply Regularly – Refresh with your protective spray as often as you would reapply sunscreen to also help and prevent damage from the sun.
Rinse Immediately After Swimming – Always rinse with fresh water after exposure to chlorine, saltwater, or sulfate-heavy hot springs.

Winter Sports & Cold Weather Hair Care

Cold weather and high winds from activities like skiing can wreak havoc on your extensions, causing tangles and breakage.

Brush Knot-Free Before Heading Out – Always detangle before putting on hats or helmets.

Apply a Hair Serum – This protects against dryness, static, and frizz.

Tie Hair Up Securely – Use a rip tie hair tie or braid your hair to prevent matting.

Airplane Travel & Sleeping with Extensions

Long-haul flights and overnight stays can cause tangling and dryness if you don’t protect your hair properly.

Before Boarding a Long Flight:

Brush your hair and apply a leave-in conditioner spray to keep it moisturized.
Brush through again and tie it up in a Sleepy Tie scrunchie (my go-to for keeping hair in place and looking great after).
Pack dry shampoo to refresh your roots when you land and give a hand toss.

For Sleeping with Extensions:

Brush and apply a serum before bed to prevent knots and dryness.
Use a Silk or Satin Pillowcase – Reduces friction, frizz and helps prevent dryness, especially in cold, dry climates.
Secure your hair in a headscarf, pigtails, or my favorite—a Sleepy Tie scrunchie.

Washing & Conditioning Tips While Traveling

When traveling, washing your hair every day isn’t ideal—especially when you’re in remote locations like the African bush.

*same washing rules apply for my gym girlies

Wash 1-2 Times a Week – Over washing can dry out extensions since they don’t receive natural scalp oils.
Use Sulfate-Free, Extension-Safe Shampoo – Avoid hotel shampoos they often contain sulfates that can dry out your hair and cause buildup. Bring your own!
Condition Only the Mid-Lengths to Ends – Avoid the roots to prevent bead slippage.
Dry Shampoo Between Washes – When you can’t wash your hair, use dry shampoo to refresh your roots.
Brush Every Morning and Night – This prevents tangles, especially in dry climates, aslo add a small amount of serum.

Air-Drying Without the Frizz—No Tools Required

I'm one who normally doesn't travel without my hot tools to style my hair since air-drying leaves me frizzy. But when traveling somewhere remote—like camping in the African bush—no hot tools? No problem!

Wash with Care – Use your extension-safe shampoo and conditioner.
Towel Dry Gently – Avoid rubbing—pat your hair dry.
Brush It Out – Detangle with a gentle brush, while damp.
Apply Serum – Run a small amount through your damp hair.
Clip Up Until 65% Dry – This prevents frizz from setting in.
Finish Air-Drying Down – Once partially dry, add another small amount of serum, brush it out and let the rest air dry naturally.

*Important note to keep up with regular morning and night time brushing maintenance.

When Staying in the African Bush:

Limit washes to once or twice a week. Dry shampoo is your best friend for in-between washes; but don’t be afraid to wash when needed—just follow the air-dry method above.
Brush your hair morning and night this is essential for keeping extensions tangle-free and to prevent matting.
Better hair days in the bush! with no humidity (unlike NJ!), your hair will air-dry faster and stay smoother.

Heat Styling & General Maintenance

Even when you're not traveling, these maintenance tips will help keep your IBE extensions looking flawless.

Use Heat Protectant – Always spray a heat protectant before using hot tools.
Keep Heat Below 350°F – High heat can damage both natural and extension hair.
Avoid Oils Near the Beads – Oils and serums should only be applied from the mid-lengths down to avoid bead slippage.
Don’t Tug at the Extensions – They are strong but be gentle when styling and brushing at the roots, to avoid getting caught on a bead.
Get Move-Up maintenance every 6-8 Weeks – Helps keep beads in place and prevent matting at the roots.
Check for Loose Beads – If any feel loose, schedule a touch-up to avoid tension on your natural hair.

Get Inspired

check out the hair items I love and use for everyday and for travel

Traveling with IBE extensions may mean adjusting your routine, but with these tips, your hair will stay healthy and beautiful through every adventure, whether you’re swimming, skiing, flying, or camping, a little preparation goes a long way in keeping your extensions looking their best.

What’s your favorite travel hair hack? Let me know in the comments!