Surviving the Summer – Part 2

Last week I covered some of the survival ideas about getting through the summer with wigs and toppers. This week we will look at some travel questions and delve a bit further into the ideas and ways of making it through summer easier and with less stress.

HOW TO PACK AND STORE WIGS WHEN TRAVELING:

When you’re new to wearing wigs, learning how to pack a wig and travel with your wigs can be tricky because there are so many things to consider.

• What products should you bring? Just what you need, don’t overload on products. Take travel size shampoo, conditioner, sprays.
• How many wigs should you bring? Always have a spare or two. Instead of washing and drying wigs on your vacation rotate them so that unless you get them in the pool or ocean, you won’t need to wash them until you get home. But just in case, default to the travel size products. 
• Should you buy a wig-specific carrying case or are there easier options? No need for special wig carriers, boxes, or containers. 

Packing for a trip is all about one thing: suitcase efficiency.

With shoes, daytime outfits, nighttime outfits, makeup, reading materials, and all the chargers that you need, packing efficiency is a challenge. I’m a fan of the zip-lock plastic bags for storage. Cheap, easy to see what you have at a glance, and keeps the wig safe from tangling in the suitcase and keeps it from any debris. Also, it takes up much less space than a carrier, box, or structured container.

KEEP IT SIMPLE: 

As noted in my blog from last week – keep it easy and simple by bringing synthetic wigs that keep their style, the necessary care products, a collapsible stand, and some headgear – hats, scarves, etc., to give your wigs and your head a break. 

A RECURRING QUESTION: WHAT ABOUT GOING THROUGH SECURITY IN THE AIRPORT?

Will I have to take off my wig for airport security? No!

• Know that TSA/security is not required to ask you to remove your wig. Just like with your clothing, their scanners should be able to see through the wig.
• However—you should avoid wearing too many metal wig clips or bobby pins that could set off a sensor or raise suspicion.
• If you are asked to remove your wig and don’t feel comfortable doing it in front of all the people at security, ask for a private room. TSA is required to grant that request.

THINGS TO CONSIDER:

Because I’m a big Plan B person, I’d never put my wigs inside my checked bags. If I am going somewhere for a week or more, I put a spare wig and travel-size products in my carry-on bag. I also include a hat and scarf. Wig care products should not take up any more room in your luggage than care products for bio hair.  

SOME HELPERS THAT ONLY YOU WILL KNOW ABOUT: 

Dealing with the heat as a wig wearer can be a challenge, even if you are not in some tropical climate on vacation. These are some of the things you might consider to help make things easier: Bamboo caps, Wig grips, Wig liners.

Until next week, be happy, and stop and smell the flowers, Vickie Lynn…