The Traveling Hair Stylist Equipment You Need From Day One

When a non-hair stylist imagines the life of a traveling hairdresser, they usually think of someone with a thrilling and cushy job. Jet-setting from place to place sounds exciting. Remember to pack your hair stylist equipment essentials.

But that’s not the whole story.

There are a lot of cool aspects to working as an entrepreneur with your own hairstyling business. However, there are responsibilities that come with the role, too.

One of the areas where you probably struggle the most is juggling your equipment. Whether you’re just getting started or you’ve been in the hair field for years, this part can be stressful.

Choosing the supplies you’ll need when traveling can be a make-or-break factor. Still, you don’t need to break into the piggy bank to load up your essential supplies.

We have everything covered in this guide for you!

As you start your new journey as a traveling hair stylist, here are the most critical pieces of equipment you’ll need from day one.

Of course, you can always add more as you go, but these essentials will get you through even the most challenging clients.

First: The Key Factors

No matter what you invest in for your traveling hair salon, it must be three main things: portable, flexible, and versatile.

Portability

The element of portability is necessary because you’ll need to be able to carry it with you anywhere.

What if your next client needs you to fly to their destination wedding on a tropical island? Would you say no because you don’t have the correct travel luggage for your equipment? Or would you jump on the opportunity and enjoy the all-expense-paid leisure trip?

Keep in mind that if you fly, paying the big bucks to store bulky supplies cuts into your profit. And if your clients are local and you drive an average-sized car, you’re limited on space.

Flexibility

Flexibility is necessary for similar reasons.

For instance, you could get a hard-shelled rolling case, but they’re not malleable enough to squeeze into a tight space like a soft cover could.

Versatility Matters, Too

What about versatility? Why is it so important to find supplies that can do multiple jobs with one tool, like the Dyson Airwrap (seen here on Amazon)?

Well, let’s face it. Some stylist supplies are designed to do one job and do it well. If you’re in love with a device like that, then it’s worth the investment.

But if you can find tools that do the same thing and are versatile enough to multitask, you’ve hit the stylist jackpot.

In addition, it’s worth the investment to get equipment that is durable enough to last through your travels and works well.

Since it keeps you from having to remember to pack all your separate supplies, versatile devices are also great for your peace of mind.

A Travel Case

Your stylist travel case should have pockets and lots of room to keep your supplies organized. And if it’s bigger than purse-sized, it should have wheels.

A carrying case for minimal makeup storage is fine if it has a shoulder strap. But if it’s for your hairdressing tools and other necessities, you need a large capacity, high-quality rolling makeup train case as your storage organizer.

This rolling case is especially essential if you’re a makeup artist, too. A rolling makeup case isn’t just easier to carry. It keeps your supplies from shifting around or breaking in transit.

Must-Have Features in Every Travel Stylist’s Bag

Of course, you’re going to have some unique supplies for your niche. These little extras may need their own special storage compartments or caddies.

Overall, though, there are some typical pieces of equipment and items every stylist uses. That makes shopping for a bag easier because if you target hair stylist rolling bags and cases, these little nooks and crannies are already part of the storage box.

Here are some features to look for when you’re shopping around for a case for your stylist equipment:

Secure Closure and Locks

What’s the closure and lock design like on the bag? It doesn’t matter what you hold inside the compartment if it all falls out when you’re on the road. A velcro or button latch isn’t going to be sturdy enough to hold a packed suitcase shut.

Look for a bag that zips shut tightly or has a foldover, clasping enclosure. And the better the lock features, the more secure and safe your things will be when they’re out of your sight.

Note: Check with the airport you’re traveling in for their lockable luggage rules.

Four-Wheel Rolling vs. Spinner Wheels

We talked about the importance of wheels on your luggage earlier, but there are different kinds, too.

In-line skate wheels are one type. These are made of a flexible polyurethane substance. The wheel recesses into the suitcase so only part of it is visible.

In-line wheels can be pulled behind, making them a good choice for anyone who wants to drag their suitcase in a hurry. However, they take up a lot of room behind you and aren’t the best solution for anyone with neck, wrist, and shoulder issues.

Spinner wheels are the other typical wheel you’ll see. These are attached to the case and can “spin” 360 degrees. The mobility of this kind of wheel lets you drag your bag behind you, push it in front of you, or pull it alongside.

Whether you choose in-line or spinner wheels, look for a locking mechanism that keeps your case in place when you’re using it with a client.

Easy Access

Durability is important, but you also need to be able to get to your stuff quickly and easily.

Where are the compartments and dividers located? What kind of material are they?

Mesh bags hold your miscellaneous items. Built-in appliance holders are ideal for storing a hairdryer and flat iron, and telescoping handles and extendable doors make room for other layers.

Capacity matters, too. Make sure the case you get has the storage size for everything you need. Otherwise, you’re going to end up investing in more than one bag, and paying multiple bag fees, too.

Plus, dragging an extra suitcase through the airport may be inconvenient as you weave through the crowds.

Frame

One last BOLO feature is the frame. Of course, you don’t want your case to be so lightweight that it breaks under pressure. But it also can’t be bulky and cumbersome. It’s a travel case, after all.

A solid choice is a case made with an aluminum or PVC frame and handle. If the material covering the frame is nylon or stronger, you’re good to go.

Keep the case’s weight at under 20 pounds. You’re going to be filling it, and it needs to be something you can easily transport.

These features are the foundation of every stylist’s travel bag, whether you’re looking for a barber case or a makeup bag.

Travel Containers for Product

So you need all your hair products on your extended trip. You don’t have to buy a separate tool bag just for the liquids.

Instead, nab a set of travel-sized liquid containers. As long as you buy a TSA-approved set, you won’t have to worry about having your expensive product confiscated at the security checkpoint.

Just pour them into the travel containers and leave the main product in your “beauty salon” room at home. You can also nip this in the bud by shopping for air travel in mind.

These TSA rules are universal, making it easy to pack your carry-on smart without travel containers:

• Keep your liquid toiletry items, aerosols, gels, creams, or pastes in a clear, quart-sized bag.
• Each item must be in a container that is 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or smaller. Many manufacturers sell travel-sized versions of their products in 3.4 ounces or less. However, these tend to be pricier, though, so it may be cheaper to use the travel container method.
• You can still bring anything larger than 3.4 ounces, but it must be in your checked baggage. Pack it inside a Ziploc bag or another leak-proof method to prevent spills from ruining the rest of your luggage.
• Exceptions include medication and children’s essential nourishment.

Another thing to keep in mind is that it can be incredibly cost-effective to shop in the duty-free section of an international airport.

If you buy liquids like hairspray or other products on your connecting flight, you can take them with you on the plane, as long as they’re not open or tampered with.

However, you’ll need proof that the purchase was made within 48 hours of your upcoming flight.

Hair Tools

What kind of stylist do you advertise yourself as? That will determine the hair tools you carry in your must-have case.

Combs, brushes, shears, and a hand-held mirror are the basics for every stylist. Beyond that, think about the salon equipment you’d use on the majority of your clients.

You’ll probably need to add these specialized equipment items to your list:

• Curling iron
• Blow dryer
• Straighteners
• Clippers and trimmers

Combo devices like the Dyson Airwrap come in a kit that takes up a good amount of storage space in your travel case. But it also minimizes the amount of equipment you need and keeps it all organized.

As you list your stylist tools, add the products you’ll use most often to the list.

For example, shampoo and conditioner, styling spray, heat protectant, dry shampoo, colors, and lighteners would fall in this list.

Make a travel container for each one and label it with a permanent marker. Then, when you’re heading out on the road, you’ll be able to grab the necessary to-go products and throw them in your hairdresser bag quickly.

Any professional cosmetic makeup travel items need to be on this list, as well, to keep you organized. Also, include your manicure and pedicure essentials if applicable.

Software Platforms

You have the in-hand tools you’ll need to get started. Now, it’s on to the fun part: how to organize and plan your bookings.

Getting a makeup organizer and hair stylist travel case are your physical must-haves. How will you keep track of your appointments?

Gone are the days of paper planners and calling and texting all your clients back and forth. When you go solo, the right software platform saves you time and hassle.

What to Look for In Your Stylist Software

The best software for travel hair stylists takes into consideration all the aspects of running a business, not just making bookings.

As you check into the software solutions for your travel salon, look for these features:

• Versatile ways to manage appointments, including set-your-own features on your calendar so clients can book themselves in your open spots (with your approval)
• Inventory tracking with separate categories for general cosmetology, hair supplies, makeup, etc.
• Client database maintenance with features that remind you of upcoming events, like anniversaries and birthdays
• Cloud storage accessible anywhere with WiFi
• Sharable resources for your staff if you have anyone helping you

When it comes to running your business, you already do the bulk of the work as a stylist. Still, for tax purposes, there’s one more organization essential that doesn’t fit in your stylist’s organizer box.

Don’t forget to keep your receipts and documentation filed away neatly for your taxes. Your software platform can do this for you, letting you scan and capture digital images rather than holding onto paper receipts for years.

If you’re uncomfortable handling the tax and legal issues, you’re not alone. Many entrepreneurs are amazing at their trade or skill, but would rather leave the accounting to the professionals.

Luckily, there are companies like Selfgood, designed for gig workers and small business owners like you. With your membership, you get the best advice from accounting and legal experts, as well as discounts on services like health insurance.

Conclusion

The supplies you need when you’re a travel stylist include storage, tools, product, and software.

This list is full of must-haves, so you can start your shopping spree without breaking the bank.

Add a membership with Selfgood to your list, and you’ll love the discounts you qualify for when you checkout at their partnered companies, too!