How I Care for My Locs While Traveling: Simple Tips for Healthy Hair on the Go

Maintaining healthy locs while traveling doesn’t have to be complicated—and honestly, it shouldn't be. Whether you're jetting off to a new country or hopping between cities, keeping your hair happy and your scalp fresh can be simple, intentional, and freeing. In this post, I'm breaking down how I care for my locs on the go, what products I pack, and how my grooming routine has evolved since starting my loc journey in Korea.

If you’re new to the loc life, curious about low-maintenance hair care, or looking for scalp-loving tips for travel, keep reading.

🌱 Starting My Loc Journey in Korea

Like many people with natural hair, I’ve worn just about every style under the sun—braids, twists, wigs, and even went bald for a bit. Before moving to Korea, I knew I needed something that was both low-maintenance and made me feel like me. That’s when I decided to start my loc journey.

🧴 My Go-To Products for Loc Care

When it comes to products, I keep it minimal, especially when I travel. I’ve learned that my hair thrives when I don’t overload it with too many things.

Here are my staples:

• Dr. Bronner’s Tea Tree Castile Soap
  This is my holy grail. It gets my scalp squeaky clean without drying it out. Tea tree oil is also amazing for scalp health and itch prevention.

• Coconut Oil
  After washing, I seal in moisture with a bit of coconut oil. It’s light, effective, and easy to find almost anywhere.

• Local Oils
  Instead of bringing a bunch of heavy bottles in my suitcase, I opt for local oils when I travel. Depending on where I am, I might use argan oil, jojoba, or something regional and natural. My rule? If it feels good on your skin, it’ll likely feel good on your scalp too.

• Apple Cider Vinegar (Occasionally)
  Every now and then, I’ll do a quick ACV rinse to clarify my scalp and remove any build-up.

💦 How I Wash My Locs On the Road

Washing my locs isn’t something I dread anymore—it’s become a whole moment. Especially while traveling, I keep it straightforward and intentional.

Here’s my method:

1. Focus on the Scalp First
   I gently scrub my scalp using my fingertips (sometimes nails, lightly) to make sure all the dirt and oil is lifted. Clean scalp = healthy hair growth.

2. Rinse Thoroughly
   Locs can trap residue if you’re not careful. I rinse until the water runs completely clear.

3. Moisturize After Washing
   A light coat of coconut oil does the trick. No heavy creams or butters while traveling—they weigh the hair down and are hard to rinse out.

4. Let It Air Dry
   I avoid using heat when possible and usually let my locs dry in the sun or air.

   • This is based on preference and availability. I don’t travel with a blowdryer and don’t always have access to one. While I have gotten use to air drying I don’t mind using a blow dryer.

✈️ Traveling with Locs: Tips That Actually Work

Traveling with locs doesn’t require a suitcase full of hair products. Here are a few things I’ve learned:

• Pack Smart:
  Bring one multipurpose product (like castile soap) and get creative with local resources.

• Separate Your Locs Occasionally:
  Especially after swimming or sweating a lot. This prevents fusion (when two locs start to grow together).

• Don't Overdo It:
  Skip daily styling. Let your hair breathe and thrive naturally.

• Prioritize Scalp Health:
  A clean, well-moisturized scalp is the foundation of healthy locs—especially in different climates.

🔁 My Current Maintenance Routine

In the beginning, I used to retwist my locs often—sometimes every two weeks. But over time, I’ve shifted my focus from perfect roots to healthy growth and low manipulation.

Now:

• I retwist maybe once every 2-3 months (if that).

• Most of my loc upkeep happens during the wash process—scalp massage, gentle separation, and moisturizing.

• I almost exclusively keep my locs in 2-strand twists.

The best part? Freedom. I no longer stress over frizz or “neatness.” My hair still looks beautiful, expressive, and like me—even when I’m on the move.

🌍 Locs, Travel, and Choosing Ease

Having locs has taught me so much—not just about hair, but about patience, growth, and choosing ease in a world that loves to complicate everything. When I travel, I’m reminded that I don’t need a 5-step routine or a drawer full of products to feel good about myself.

I just need:

• A clean scalp

• A lightweight oil

• A little time and love

If you’re thinking about starting your loc journey or trying to simplify your routine while you explore the world—go for it. It’s absolutely worth it.

🌀 Keep It Light, Keep It You

Whether you're headed to Bali, Busan, or your neighborhood farmer’s market, your locs deserve love—but not stress. The beauty of this journey is in finding what works for you, and letting that be enough.

✨ Curious about how I style my locs when I’m not traveling? Or want a peek into my simple loc-care packing list? Let me know in the comments!