Whether you’re planning a trip to the serene hills or to beautiful beaches, your itinerary must include taking care of your skin and hair while travelling. Here are some skincare and hair care tips when travelling.

Holiday = travel = fun times! Whether the distance is short or long or the destination is hills or beach or just an adventure trek, travelling is always exciting. Travelling, even if it is for work sometimes, is a beautiful experience. But if you become very laidback about your hair and skin care during travel, you may end up spoiling it!

The new location, new climate, disrupted eating routines and the stress of travel can impact the skin and hair negatively. It could result in dull hair days, breakouts, acne flare ups, dry lips, tan lines and more problems. However, you need not worry because skin and hair during travelling are not a tough task.

Hair care and skin care tips for travelling

Here are some tips to make sure your skin and hair remain healthy during your sojourns.

1. Research the weather

When going to a new place, don’t guess about the weather and climate. Read about it and make a note of it. Your choice of moisturiser, face wash, shampoo and sunscreen and even the makeup that you will carry depends on whether the weather is cold, rainy or dry. For example, you would require a pore cleansing and hydrating skincare in humid weather whereas you would require creamy moisturiser in cold weather.

2. Follow your regular skincare routine in holidays too

Skin and hair cells never go on a break and therefore there should be no break in your skincare routine too. A consistent routine is the key to happy hair and skin days. Carry your regular skin care products in travel-size bottles to avoid spilling and baggage weight.

3. Essentials are all you need

You don’t need to bring your dresser everywhere you go. Carry key ingredients that you use in your normal routine as well like cleanser, toner, moisturiser, night cream and sunscreen. Also, don’t forget to carry disposable makeup wipes to remove the makeup.

4. Keep the moisturiser in your purse

Hydrate your skin with a moisturiser before you board the flight or before driving with the air conditioner. Keep reapplying it to keep the skin hydrated. You can even carry some hydrating sheet masks for a quick skin revival. Products with rich hyaluronic acid and vitamin C content should be your preferred choice.

5. Carry a toner

Toner is good to mattify greasy skin and re-energising travel skin. However, if you don’t have a toner, use a blotting paper. It will help soak the oil right up and prevent dirt build-up. They also work well on sensitive skin.

6. Stay hydrated

Make sure you have a water bottle with you at all times. Keep sipping water at regular intervals. Many people avoid drinking water when travelling but this is not a good idea. Lack of water can affect your skin and hair in a bad way. Not drinking water robs the skin of its radiance and the hair of its shine. Always drink water.

7. There is no way around sunscreen

You can leave everything at home, but not the sunscreen. You need to apply it before you step out of the house and keep reapplying every 3-4 hours. Yes, even on your flight and in the taxi! Sunscreen helps in preventing tanning, skin damage, pigmentation and premature ageing. Use a gel-based sunscreen during summers and cream based one in cold weather. Use an SPF of more than 30.

8. Cover your hair with a scarf or hat

Protect your hair from dirt and pollution and the harsh sun by covering it. This also prevents scalp ageing and makes sure your hair stays younger and darker longer.

9. Keep the hair tied up

We know it is tempting to let the hair flow in the wind and get those celebrity-like selfies and photos but they are may not be doing good for your hair. Continuous exposure to heavy wind can damage your hair. The wind carries with it dirt and particles that cause greasy scalp, clogged pores and tangled hair that become prone to breakage. Keep the hair tied into a bun or a braid to prevent hair damage.

10. Keep the makeup basic

Too much makeup runs a risk of running down and dirt gets stuck in it. Also, if you are not able to remove it, it can cause breakouts, skin pigmentation, dry skin and even fine lines. You don’t want that. So, keep the makeup to the bare minimum.

11. Avoid using hotel toiletries

Your skin is unique and needs specific products and unknown toiletries are not going to help your skin and hair. They are not often the top quality and are made for general use. Your skin or the scalp can react to the product adversely. Hence, don’t use these products unless necessary. Or read the ingredients carefully before use.

Travelling should be fun and not spent worrying about skin and hair. Follow the given tips, and you won’t have to worry about anything. Keep good skin and hair products handy and customised for travelling.

Summer is the most popular time of year for Americans to travel, and despite concerns about inflation, 2024 could be a bustling year for summer vacations. A Nerdwallet travel report showed that more than 2 in 5 (45%) Americans plan to take a summer trip that involves booking a flight or hotel.

Family is a big component of summer plans. Four out of 5 surveyed are either planning to vacation with family or visit family this summer. With children out of school during the summer months, this is the time of year that families tend to take their longest venture away from home—and for many, that means an international trip.

Others want to get away from home to immerse themselves in a bucket list-worthy adventure. A trend report by American Express found that 65% of people looking to travel this year plan to splurge on a major trip, from off-the-beaten-path journeys to vacations through multiple European countries.

Whether travelers intend to make memories with family and friends or take the trip of a lifetime, many will look to international destinations for their summer vacations. To find out which global cities will be at the top of the list, Airalo compiled a ranking of the five most popular international summer travel destinations, according to Google Flights search data collected between January 2024 and March 2024.

Read on to see if your dream travel destination made the list.

#5. Cancun

Cancún has long been a favorite resort destination and in 2022 alone, 9.5 million international passengers arrived by plane, which made the city México’s most popular flight destination. Its close proximity to the United States and abundant direct flights help boost its rankings among American travelers. Perhaps the biggest draws for tourists are the white sand beaches and the temperate Caribbean Sea.

Travelers can choose from more than 35,000 rooms at different price points across dozens of Cancún resorts and hotels. Once visitors have had their fill of the Yucatán peninsula’s beautiful beaches, many enjoy visiting nearby historic ruins, including Chichén Itzá and Tulum.

#4. Rome

History buffs love Rome for its ancient architecture, which still stands among more modern parts of the city. The best-known tourist site is likely the Colosseum, the massive amphitheater that has hosted gladiator fights, animal hunting, and other public spectacles beginning in the first century. Visitors walking around the Eternal City may also see other landmarks of its long, storied history including ancient aqueducts, the Roman Forum, and the Pantheon. Food lovers can get a taste of authentic local cuisine, such as its celebrated carbonara, cacio e pepe, and suppli.

Nearby is Vatican City, the Roman Catholic church headquarters and the site of art masterpieces including Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel ceiling and Raphael’s The School of Athens.

#3. Tokyo

Japan welcomed a record-setting 3.1 million international visitors in March 2024, many of whom came to the nation’s capital city, according to the Japan National Tourism Organization. Travelers enjoy visiting the busy Sensō-ji temple, Tokyo’s oldest temple, which features a golden icon of the Buddhist goddess of mercy. If you want a unique taste of the city, head to Harmonica Yokocho to find delectable dishes from tiny, unassuming restaurants.

Before tourists leave, many make a stop at Shibuya Crossing. Surrounded by stores and restaurants, the world’s busiest intersection is flooded by seas of strangers crossing under the bright lights of nearby advertisements.

#2. Paris

Paris remains one of the busiest tourist cities in the world, and it’s gearing up for an even bigger summer this year as the host of the 2024 Summer Olympic Games. Many tourists beeline to the Eiffel Tower to snap a picture of the most visited monument in the world, but most don’t know about the gardens below the tower, which are free to access and a great place for a picnic.

Another iconic stop in Paris is the world’s largest museum, the Louvre. Of course, you can find art all over the City of Love—near the Pont de Grenelle bridge, for example, is a roughly 38-foot-tall replica of New York City’s Statue of Liberty. Of course, no trip to Paris would be complete without sampling the city’s many breads, cheeses, and pastries.

#1. London

Packed with plenty of things to see and do, the capital city of the United Kingdom is this summer’s most popular international destination for U.S. travelers. One of London’s top sites is also one of its oldest: once a royal palace, the Tower of London was built in 1066 by William the Conqueror and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Buckingham Palace, another former residence of the British monarchy, is also a favorite tourist attraction today.

Westminster Abbey is another must-see. Buried or commemorated here are 3,300 notable individuals, including William Shakespeare, Sir Isaac Newton, and Queen Elizabeth I. When you’re ready to move on from historic sightseeing, check out the London Eye, where glass capsules offer a 360-degree view of the city.

With all travel comes finding accommodations, and one of the best ways to have a unique stay is to book via a service like Airbnb. While hotels can feel posh and offer luxe amenities, the rooms function equally across national chains. On the other hand, Airbnbs often provide a one-of-a-kind stay curated by thoughtful hosts.

However, one caveat that comes with each unique Airbnb property is that the standards at one location differ from the other. For example, while one property welcomes all pets, another may only allow documented service animals, which is why reading through the listing is essential.

While some descriptions get lengthy, there could be vital things you’re missing simply because you don’t know where to look. So, to ensure that you’re compliant while also aware of obscurities, here’s what to look for in every Airbnb listing, according to hosts and frequent guests.

Reviews reveal the pros and cons.

The overwhelming majority of experts suggest looking at reviews from prior stays. Airbnb shows a star designation for each property, which calculates an average based on previous ratings, but be sure to delve into the actual words of former guests. You never know what you’ll find — good or bad.

“Look for consistency in the reviews,” says Elliott Beenk, an Airbnb host in Los Angeles. “There will always be the random upset traveler. However, if multiple people are complaining about the same cold shower or broken AC, this may be something you should ask about before booking.” Reviews may also contain positive information about the property that the host hasn’t listed, such as how the sunrise hits the landscape or its proximity to the best coffee in town.

Scouring reviews is also a smart way to gauge the temperament and responsiveness of the host. Brittany Merriman is a blogger and travel specialists who often books Airbnb stays for a month — which makes finding a great host especially important to her. “Pay particular attention to reviews that mention an issue with the apartment,” she says. “If there was an issue, how did the host react?” Of course, problems can arise with any property, but how quickly and effectively a host remedied the situation is important to note. Often, guests will include this in their feedback, and hosts can also leave responses on reviews. “If the host didn’t react in a favorable or timely manner, I move on to another Airbnb listing,” says Merriman.

WiFi may be nonexistent or slow.

Some folks book Airbnbs for a weekend getaway and only need WiFi to scroll social media. Others need a strong internet connection to ensure that their midweek Zoom call isn’t cut short. So, if WiFi is a must, the first thing to do is see if your location has it, as some do not. Having internet access is an expectation in North America. However, it’s not uncommon for apartments in Europe and Asia to go without. “We have stayed in Airbnbs where we didn’t check that there was WiFi, and it turned out there wasn’t,” says Celeste Klassen, a freelance writer who frequently travels throughout Portugal and Bulgaria.

Also, be aware that just because an Airbnb has WiFi doesn’t mean that you can stream your favorite show, check emails, and conduct an online meeting all at once. “Ensure the WiFi is strong enough for how you plan to use it,” travel blogger Hanna Ashcraft tells Apartment Therapy. “Reading emails is different from streaming Netflix.” The Airbnb app allows hosts to check their WiFi speed and add the results to their listing page, which helps guests determine whether or not the internet can handle their particular needs.

Cameras could be on the property.

For the safety of guests and hosts alike, Airbnb has rules about cameras — the main ones being that they have to be disclosed and visible. “Outdoor security cameras are common and allowed and may even aid in your check-in,” says Beenk. In addition, many hosts use devices, such as doorbell cameras, to make sure that folks arrive safely and to count the number of guests on site.

However, Airbnb is very clear in its policies on cameras and recording devices inside and doesn’t allow hosts to monitor private spaces, such as bedrooms, bathrooms, and central areas (such as a living room) used for sleeping. Beenk says, “Indoor cameras in private spaces are against Airbnb’s terms of service, illegal in several states, all-around creepy, and should be reported immediately.”

Kitchens may not be well stocked.

Access to cooking areas can vary with Airbnbs. If you book a whole house rental, chances are there should be a kitchen. However, with shared accommodations, you may only have access to a shared kitchen or a bare-bones kitchenette with just the essentials. Plus, just because a home has a place to prepare food doesn’t necessarily mean that it has the cookware and utensils to make a gourmet meal.

Ashcraft prefers to book an entire house to use the kitchen unabashedly, and she faithfully double-checks the appliance list to plan accordingly. “I’ve been put in a pickle when there was no oven, but I had hoped to throw in a frozen pizza or cook something else,” she recalls. “Another time, there was no way to make coffee.” The filter function at the top of the Airbnb page allows you to curate a list of accommodations that includes kitchen facilities.

Cancellations may cost you.

When booking your Airbnb, check to see when — and especially if — you can cancel your reservation without a penalty or fee. Especially in today’s climate, unexpected changes can cause a last-minute cancellation. Each Airbnb owner sets their policy on refunds, ranging from reimbursing day-of cancellations to allowing no refunds whatsoever.

“It is extremely important to pay attention to the cancellation policy,” says Mollie Krengel, who often books Airbnbs for women’s retreats. “At the beginning of COVID, I lost a lot of money to Airbnb due to their cancellation policies. I will always pay closer attention to this moving forward.” For some properties, there is an option to get a nonrefundable booking at a lower price, but only make that selection if you are 100 percent certain about your trip.

Parking could be off-site.

Read information about where to park, especially if you are booking an urban location. Many cities don’t allow on-street parking unless you have a permit, or you may have to move your car on street sweeping days. Luca Sforza, who photographs Airbnb rentals in Seattle, has noticed a variety of parking situations. “Street parking is very tough, and parking lots can be expensive and sometimes several blocks from the rental,” he says. Of course, a complimentary parking garage or dedicated space is always helpful as accommodation costs can skyrocket if you need to factor in additional funds for parking.

Property-specific rules are in the fine print.

Again, unlike the consistency of booking a chain hotel everywhere you go, each Airbnb has its own set of ground rules. For example, you may be sharing common areas with other guests, and there may be additional instructions about quiet hours or bringing your own towels deeply embedded in the details of the listing. As far as hosts and Airbnb are concerned, if it’s outlined in the listing, you are accountable for the information.

Jennifer Smith is a current Airbnb host who encourages guests to familiarize themselves with the property before arrival. “Read through the additional rules where hosts can add their own specific rules for their properties like signing a rental agreement or requiring a security deposit,” she says. Then, scour the listing to find details, such as when to check in and check out, to avoid having to query your host. “Most of the questions that I receive can be answered by either reading through the listing or the additional materials that are sent to them after booking,” Smith says.

With a bit of research, you can confidently book your stay and enjoy the uniqueness that comes with booking an Airbnb property.

As the summer sun beckons, it is time to start planning a proper summer vacation with the family and friends. Whether you want to make an easy trip to a tropical paradise or to plan a multiple hopping a bustling city, or a serene mountain retreat to reach your final destination once.

William Hall, Vice -President of Marketing and Digital, RCI EMEM, India and APAC, suggested some essentials which each traveller needs to have this summer vacation to make the most of the travel and create unforgettable memories –

1. Choose destinations wisely and plan your travel in advance: Shortlisting a destination thoughtfully and planning your travel effectively are key to saving time, money, and ensuring safety. Popular tourist spots can be overly crowded, leading to less enjoyable experiences. Exploring lesser-known destinations can offer a more tranquil and relaxing vacation. Consider places with cooler temperatures or opportunities for water activities to enhance your summer travel experience. By making informed choices, you can make the most of your journey while avoiding common pitfalls associated with busy tourist areas.
2. Keep yourself hydrated: Water is universally known to be essential, yet we often forget to drink enough of it. During summers, it’s crucial to keep your body hydrated and eat well to avoid losing out on any location due to dehydration, fatigue, or other health issues. Proper hydration and nutrition can enhance overall mood and improve the travel experience.
3. Packing Essentials: Creating a checklist beforehand saves time and money by preventing the need to purchase necessities while on the go. ensuring you have all the essentials for a stress-free trip, including medications, travel documents, and chargers, to avoid unnecessary inconveniences. Moreover, packing comfortable and breathable fabrics is crucial to avoid discomfort during your journey. Remember to include summer travel essentials such as sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, and scarves in your packing list.
4. Travel First Aid Kit: Having a well-stocked first aid kit can provide peace of mind and ensure that you are prepared for any medical situation that may arise during your travels. In addition to your regular medications, it’s important to carry certain common medicines and supplements when planning a summer trip. Multivitamins, fiber supplements, and other sources of instant energy are must-haves in your travel medicine kit to replace all the minerals and salts that you may lose during travelling in India in the summer.
5. Travel Early: It is suggested to travel early during summers because it can help you if you wish to do outdoor activities. The cooler temperatures in the morning and evening make it easier to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, sightseeing, or exploring. Additionally, travelling early can reduce the risk of exhaustion from the hot weather. Planning the perfect summer trip requires preparation and excitement, and with the right mindset and planning, you can make the most of your time at your destination. Starting your day early can also give you more time to explore and experience all that your destination has to offer.

Travelling is the best way to learn and experience new cultures, places, people, and cuisines. The tips mentioned for summer travel will help you plan a safe trip. So, pack your bags and get ready for the adventure you’ve been waiting for!