Traveling can be stressful, especially when it comes to managing curly hair on the go.
Choosing the right airport hairstyle can make your journey smoother and more comfortable.
In this article, we’ll share some fantastic airport hairstyles for curly hair that are not only stylish but also practical for travel.
Whether you have tight coils or loose waves, these hairstyle ideas will help you maintain your curls’ beauty and health during your trip.
You’ll find a variety of options to suit different lengths and textures, ensuring you look your best from takeoff to landing.
We understand that curly hair can be challenging to manage, especially in the dry, confined environment of an airplane.
That’s why our hairstyle ideas focus on convenience and protection, helping you keep your curls hydrated and frizz-free.
We’ll answer common questions like how to prepare your hair before a flight, what products to bring, and how to refresh your curls after a long journey.
These tips and tricks will make your travel experience more enjoyable and less stressful.
So, let’s dive into the best curly hair hairstyles for the airport that will keep you looking fabulous and feeling comfortable on your next adventure.
23 Best Airport Hairstyles for Curly Hair
1. Curly High Bun with Face-Framing Tendrils
This elegant and effortless high bun is perfect for those with curly hair who want to keep their curls under control while traveling.
The face-framing tendrils add a touch of softness and romance, making it suitable for both casual and formal airport outfits.
Ideal for individuals with medium to long curly hair, this style keeps the hair off your neck and face, ensuring comfort during long flights.
To maintain this look, use a light-hold gel or mousse to keep curls defined and frizz-free.
2. Cute Double Buns for Short Hair
Double buns are a playful and practical option for short curly hair, keeping it secured and out of the way.
This hairstyle is perfect for those who want to add a fun and youthful touch to their airport look.
It works well for short to medium hair lengths and can be easily styled with some bobby pins and a bit of hairspray.
To keep the buns in place, use a strong-hold hairspray and smooth down any flyaways with a touch of gel.
3. Cute Short Half-Up Half-Down
The half-up, half-down style is a versatile and stylish choice for short curly hair.
It combines the practicality of having the hair pulled back with the beauty of letting curls flow freely.
This look is ideal for anyone with short to medium curly hair who wants to keep their hair manageable while still showing off their curls.
To achieve this style, gather the top half of your hair and secure it with a hair tie or clip, leaving the rest of the curls loose.
4. Faux Mohawk
For a bold and edgy airport look, the faux mohawk is a fantastic choice.
It keeps the hair off your face and neck while adding a dramatic flair to your style.
This hairstyle is great for individuals with medium to long curly hair who want to make a statement.
To create this look, section the hair in the middle and pin the sides up, creating the illusion of a mohawk.
Maintain the style with a strong-hold gel and a bit of hairspray to keep the curls in place.
5. Sleek Professional Updo for Business Travel
For a polished and professional airport look, this sleek updo is perfect for business travelers.
It keeps curly hair neat and tidy, making it suitable for meetings and professional settings right after your flight.
Ideal for medium to long curly hair, this style ensures your curls are well-maintained and presentable.
Use a smoothing serum to control frizz and flyaways, and secure the updo with bobby pins and a strong-hold hairspray.
6. Headband with Loose Curls
This easy and stylish look is perfect for travelers who want to keep their curly hair manageable without sacrificing style.
The headband not only adds a pop of color but also helps keep hair out of the face, making it ideal for long airport waits and flights.
This hairstyle suits those with medium to long curly hair and can be easily adjusted for different hair volumes.
To maintain the curls’ definition, use a curl-enhancing cream and refresh with a light mist of water during the day.
7. High Long Ponytail
The high long ponytail is a chic and practical choice for curly-haired travelers who want to keep their hair out of the way.
This style works best for those with long curly hair, providing a sleek look that stays put through the hustle and bustle of airport travel.
Ideal for both casual and semi-formal outfits, this ponytail can be achieved by gathering the hair at the crown and securing it with a strong elastic band.
Use a smoothing serum to tame any frizz and maintain a polished appearance.
8. High Ponytail Braid
Combining the sleekness of a high ponytail with the practicality of a braid, this hairstyle is perfect for keeping curly hair neat and stylish.
It is ideal for those with medium to long curly hair who prefer a look that remains secure and tangle-free.
This style is excellent for long travel days, keeping hair manageable and reducing the need for constant adjustments.
To achieve this look, create a high ponytail, then braid the length of the hair and secure the end with an elastic.
9. High Ponytail with Bangs
A high ponytail with bangs offers a fashionable and youthful appearance, perfect for curly-haired individuals.
This hairstyle is suitable for those with medium to long hair who want to keep their curls off their neck while maintaining a playful look.
The bangs add a fresh and modern touch, making it ideal for both casual and travel-ready outfits.
To maintain this style, use a curl-defining cream for the bangs and a strong-hold gel to keep the ponytail in place.
10. Long Half-Up, Half-Down
The long half-up, half-down style is a versatile and elegant option for curly hair.
This look combines the convenience of having the top section of the hair pulled back while allowing the rest of the curls to flow freely.
Ideal for long curly hair, this style works well for those who want to show off their curls while keeping them somewhat controlled.
To achieve this look, gather the top half of the hair and secure it with a clip or hair tie, leaving the rest loose.
Use a curl-enhancing spray to keep the curls bouncy and defined.
11. Long Loose Hair to the Side
This relaxed and natural hairstyle is perfect for travelers who prefer to keep their curls loose and free.
Styling the hair to the side adds a bit of sophistication while maintaining a casual look.
Ideal for those with long curly hair, this style is easy to maintain and great for showing off the natural beauty of curls.
To keep this look fresh, use a leave-in conditioner to keep curls hydrated and reduce frizz.
12. Loose Side Braid
The loose side braid is a charming and practical option for curly hair, perfect for travelers who want a relaxed yet stylish look.
This hairstyle suits those with medium to long curly hair and adds a touch of bohemian flair.
It keeps the hair neat and manageable, reducing the need for constant adjustments during travel.
To achieve this look, loosely braid the hair to one side and secure the end with a hair tie.
Use a bit of texturizing spray to add volume and hold.
13. Loose Waves
Loose waves are a classic and effortless style, perfect for those who love to let their curls flow naturally.
This hairstyle is ideal for medium to long hair lengths and offers a carefree, beachy look.
It’s easy to maintain and great for showing off the natural texture of your hair.
To achieve this style, use a curling wand or braiding technique to enhance waves, and apply a light-hold spray to keep them in place.
14. Low Chignon
The low chignon is a sophisticated and elegant hairstyle, perfect for travelers who want a polished look.
This style is ideal for medium to long curly hair and suits both casual and formal outfits.
It keeps hair off the face and neck, making it comfortable for long flights.
To achieve this look, gather the hair at the nape of the neck, twist it into a chignon, and secure with pins.
Use a smoothing serum to control frizz and maintain a sleek appearance.
15. Pineapple Updo
The pineapple updo is a fun and practical hairstyle, perfect for curly-haired travelers.
This style is ideal for medium to long hair and keeps curls out of the way while maintaining their shape.
It’s great for preserving curl definition during travel and reducing frizz.
To achieve this look, gather the hair at the top of the head and secure it with a hair tie, letting the curls cascade forward.
Use a curl-enhancing spray to keep curls bouncy and defined.
16. Short Puffy High Ponytail
This high puffy ponytail is an excellent choice for those with short curly hair who want to keep their hair stylish and out of the way.
It adds volume and height, creating a bold and playful look suitable for any airport outfit.
Ideal for short to medium-length hair, this style is both practical and eye-catching.
To maintain this look, use a volumizing mousse and secure the ponytail with a strong elastic band.
17. Side Parted Curls
The side-parted curls offer a chic and sophisticated look for curly-haired travelers.
This hairstyle suits those with medium to long curly hair and can be easily achieved by parting the hair to one side and allowing the curls to fall naturally.
It’s perfect for adding a touch of elegance while keeping the hair manageable.
To maintain this style, use a curl-enhancing cream and a light-hold hairspray to keep curls in place.
18. Top Knot
The top knot is a classic and versatile hairstyle, perfect for keeping curly hair secure and stylish during travel.
Ideal for medium to long hair, this style keeps the hair off your face and neck, providing a clean and polished look.
It’s suitable for both casual and semi-formal settings.
To achieve this look, gather the hair at the top of your head, twist it into a knot, and secure with pins or an elastic band.
Use a smoothing serum to control frizz.
19. Twist Out
The twist out is a popular and stylish option for those with curly hair, offering defined curls and volume.
This hairstyle is perfect for medium to long hair and can be achieved by twisting sections of damp hair, letting them dry, and then unraveling them.
It’s a great way to enhance natural curl patterns and add texture.
To maintain this look, use a leave-in conditioner and a curl-defining cream to keep curls hydrated and defined.
20. Natural Afro Curls
The natural afro curls hairstyle is perfect for those who embrace their natural hair texture.
This style works best for individuals with coily hair who want a low-maintenance yet stylish look.
To maintain this hairstyle, ensure you keep your curls moisturized and defined using curl-enhancing products and regular deep conditioning treatments.
This look is perfect for anyone who loves to make a bold statement with their natural hair.
21. Short Curly Bob
The short curly bob is ideal for those who want a chic and manageable style for their curly hair.
This hairstyle suits individuals with naturally curly hair who prefer a shorter length that still offers plenty of volume and movement.
To maintain this look, use a curl-defining cream and regularly trim your ends to keep the shape fresh.
This style is great for a trendy, low-maintenance look that still feels sophisticated.
22. Long Braided Curls
Long braided curls are perfect for those who love the combination of braids and loose curls.
This hairstyle is suitable for individuals with long curly hair who want a protective style that still showcases their curls.
To keep this style looking its best, ensure your braids are neat and regularly hydrate your hair to maintain its shine and softness.
This look is ideal for a versatile and elegant hairstyle that can be dressed up or down.
23. Low Textured Curly Ponytail
The low textured curly ponytail is perfect for those who want a relaxed yet polished look for their curly hair.
This hairstyle works best for individuals with medium to long curly hair who want to keep their hair off their face while still showcasing their natural texture.
To maintain this look, use a curl-enhancing mousse or gel to define the curls and a soft brush to smooth the top of the hair into the ponytail.
This style is great for a sophisticated, easy-to-manage look that highlights the natural beauty of curly hair.
How to Prepare Your Curly Hair for a Flight
Preparing your curly hair for a flight is essential to maintain its health and appearance.
Start by deep conditioning your hair a day before your trip to ensure it’s well-hydrated.
Use a leave-in conditioner and a protective serum to lock in moisture.
On the day of your flight, choose a comfortable hairstyle that won’t stress your curls, such as a loose braid or a low ponytail.
Bringing a travel-sized spray bottle with water and a bit of leave-in conditioner can help refresh your curls during the journey.
What Products to Bring for Curly Hair Maintenance During Travel
When traveling, it’s important to bring the right products to maintain your curly hair.
Pack a travel-sized shampoo and conditioner designed for curly hair, as well as a leave-in conditioner and a curl-defining cream.
A wide-tooth comb or a detangling brush is also essential for keeping your curls tangle-free.
Consider carrying a silk or satin scarf to wrap your hair while you sleep during the flight, which helps prevent frizz and breakage.
By being prepared with the right products, you can ensure your curls stay healthy and beautiful throughout your trip.
Maintaining beautiful curly hair while traveling doesn’t have to be difficult.
