Tips for looking after your hair when camping
Spring is in the air and camping and other outdoor pursuits are once more in the offing. For some people however, this also presents a conundrum around how best to manage and care for your hair at the same time as enjoying being in the great outdoors. Often these activities require you to be more exposed to the elements and away from your home environment, without access to your usual washing facilities. The last few years have seen a huge surge in camping staycations, so what is the best way to care for your hair whilst enjoying the open air?
Before you leave
There are several things that you can do before you leave for your camping vacation in order to give your locks the best start possible and buy them a few days grace:
- Go longer between washes at home - train your hair by slowly reducing the regularity with which you wash it, this helps to slow down production of oil.
- Wash at the last minute - before you go, use a clarifying shampoo to remove all traces of dirt and excess oils.
- Avoid products after your final home wash - hairspray sticks to hair and attracts dirt.
Consider using a hair mask in the days before to deep condition it and give it strength.
What to pack
- Extra water - in an emergency you can use this, in conjunction with a plastic basin or tub, to give your hair a quick freshen-up style wash.
- Bobbles - for braiding or tying back.
- Biodegradable soap - useful if you have the opportunity to wash your hair in a freshwater river or lake, without polluting the water with chemicals from shampoos or non-biodegradable soaps.
- Microfibre towel - these are brilliant for drying your hair without being too heavy or bulky to transport. They also dry out really quickly.
- Dry shampoo – self-explanatory.
- Leave-in conditioner.
- A solar shower (if you already have one or can source one cheaply). Alternatively, take a plastic wash basin.
Whilst you are away
- Wear a hat - too much sun will damage your scalp and dry out your hair. The wind will make it more prone to tangling. Wear a hat or scarf to help keep your hair clean and protected from the elements during the day.
- Wrap your hair in a silk scarf at night to discourage tangling and keep it free from debris. It will also help keep you warm as an added advantage.
- Take plenty of bobbles - braids are a great way to control and protect your hair whilst you’re outdoors. You can never take too many bobbles!
- Use dry shampoo to freshen up your hair and absorb excess oils. With so many varieties these days, make sure you choose one that suits your particular hair type.
- Use a leave-in conditioner after washing or dry shampooing to help protect your hair from the elements, but avoid using it on the roots.
- Avoid brushing too much. This will transfer excess oil from the roots, and any built up dirt, through the rest of your hair. Use a wide toothed comb to detangle instead.
Aftercare
Remember that your hair will survive, and maybe even thank you for a few days break from washing and styling. Washing twice with a clarifying shampoo on your return should see your hair looking stronger and healthier for it. Avoid drying your hair with a hairdryer if you’ve been exposed to the sun a lot. Supplement with a touch of coconut or argan oil-based products to aid replenishment.
