For wig wearers, travelling presents some unique challenges. Some planning is required – from packing your wig securely and navigating security to ensuring you have the best tools to style your wig at your destination.
Whether you’re wearing a wig for cultural or religious reasons, due to hair loss or just for fashion, nothing should stop you from travelling in style. Keep reading for tips and advice on how best to travel with a wig.
Can you go through security with a wig?
For many wig wearers, the fear of the security scanner detecting your wig is the stuff of nightmares – so much so that can overshadow an exciting trip. Some wigs contain metal wig clips, which could set off security metal detectors or body scanners. Check your wig before you travel, and if it does, alert an airport security officer about any sensitivities or concerns you have before an inspection. The clips used to make clip-in extensions are also made of metal and could set off detectors, so you might want to switch to invisible extensions on a nylon wire for your trip. Or, if you’re wearing a wig, you could remove the clips and replace them with wig glue instead.
If the detector alerts security to the metal clips, they may pat down your hair gently, but it’s very unlikely that you’ll be asked to remove it (unless security suspects something is hidden in the wig). You can ask for a private screening if you feel too exposed. This is a sensitive issue and should be treated accordingly, so if you’re unhappy with how you’re treated, file a complaint with the relevant authorities.
What is the best way to pack a wig?
It’s essential to select a wig that suits your travel needs and preferences. Opt for a wig style that is versatile, durable and low-maintenance to withstand the rigours of travel. Perhaps you could choose one that is shorter for maintenance ease or one that is easy to sleep on – clip-in ponytails or buns, for example, might be uncomfortable on plane seats.
Synthetic wigs, in particular, are lightweight, easy to care for and resistant to environmental factors such as humidity and temperature fluctuations, so they might be the best choice for travel. They tend to be less costly than human hair wigs, which is a pro if luggage ends up being lost.
When packing, prioritise protecting your wig from damage. They may be lightweight, but they are fragile, so don’t be tempted to shove your wig in a suitcase like a pair of shoes. “Pop your wig in a hair net and place it in a plastic bag. If you have a collapsible wig stand, take that with you, and when you get to your destination, you can take your wig out of the bag and hair net, give it a shake and put it on the wig stand,” says Claire Pateman, one of the founders of Annabelle’s Wig Shop.
However, if your wig is expensive or if you’re very worried about your luggage going missing, take your wig in your hand luggage or, ideally, a separate travel case like a hat box to prevent crushing. “You can get specialist wig boxes, so put padding inside your wig, then lay it inside the box to stop it from getting flat. Then put that inside your bag or case,” advises celebrity stylist and hair extension expert Inanch Emir.
How should you style your wig when you travel?
Worried about how your wig will look post-flight? “If you have a synthetic wig set in a specific style, the style should be set enough to travel well without losing any of its style – if it’s packed well. But human hair wigs will need to be restyled when you reach your destination,” says Claire.
If your trip is likely to be adventure-filled, you’ll need to pack a firm wig grip, strong clips and a hat for added security during active travel activities. During your trip, prioritise regular maintenance and care to keep your wig looking fresh and vibrant, combing it gently to remove tangles and maintain its natural shine. If necessary, you can spot-clean your wig when you’re away.
If you have to give it a complete wash, here’s what Inanch advises: “Fill a bucket of water or the sink with warm water and shampoo, and keep dipping the wig into the water. Then when the water stops looking cloudy and runs clear, rinse the wig, apply lots of conditioner, rinse again and put it on a stand to air dry. Then, go over the ends with a hairdryer or tong if it’s able to be heat styled.” Store your wig in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight and moisture to prevent mould.
It’s worth washing your wig when you return home or around after 15 wears, says Claire. “A hack to keep your synthetic wig extra soft is to soak it for 20 minutes in warm water with fabric softener, before rinsing off and letting it air dry. The best thing about using a clothes fabric softener is it keeps your wig really soft, and your hair smells amazing, too.”
What should you do if you have a wig emergency on the go?
For unexpected challenges or emergencies, keep a travel-sized wig care kit in your hand luggage or day bag for on-the-go touch-ups and repairs. Pack a silk scarf with you to wrap your hair in, use as a headband or protect it from the heat. A small wig brush will help to keep your wig tangle-free on the go, and if your wig needs a refresh, having hair perfume on hand is useful for when you feel like you need an instant refresh.