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Looking After Curly Hair at a Summer Reggae Festival

A title about curly hair tools might seem out of place on a reggae festival site, but anyone who has spent a long weekend camping in the open knows that hair care becomes a real practical question. Sun, wind, dust, sweat and the odd downpour all take their toll, and curly or coily hair tends to dry out and tangle faster than straight hair. Packing a few sensible items, whether they come from a seasonal sale or from what you already own, makes a big difference by the final night.

What is worth packing

  • A wide-tooth comb or detangling brush: gentler on curls than a fine brush, and easy to use with conditioner in a campsite shower.
  • Leave-in conditioner or a light oil: helps hold moisture during hot days in front of the stage.
  • A satin or silk scarf or bonnet: reduces friction against a sleeping bag and keeps curls in better shape overnight.
  • A wide-brimmed hat or headwrap: shade for your scalp and a quick fix on days when styling is not an option.
  • Soft hair ties and clips: for protective updos when dancing in crowds.

Leave the heavy tools at home

Diffusers, straighteners and curling wands are usually pointless at a festival campsite, as power points are rare or absent. Low-manipulation styles such as braids, twists or a loose pineapple ponytail cope far better with several days outdoors. Many people sort these out a few days before travelling so they can simply refresh them with water and a little product.

Practical campsite tips

Decant products into small, leak-proof bottles and keep them in a zip bag, since heat can make containers burst. Shower facilities may be busy at peak times, so early mornings are often the easiest window for a proper rinse. For what to expect on site, see our camping information, and check the travel page when planning how much luggage you can realistically carry to Fulda.