Camping Hairstyles:
Picture this: You wake up in your tent after a night under the stars, expecting a frizzy, tangled mess—but instead, your hair looks effortlessly cute. Sounds impossible? Not with these Camping Hairstyles!
As someone who once spent an entire hiking trip battling a wind-whipped ponytail (while my friend’s braids stayed flawless), I learned the hard way that outdoor adventures demand strategic hairstyling. The good news? You don’t need fancy tools or hours in front of a mirror. These 12 easy, adorable hairstyles keep your hair protected, photo-ready, and out of your face—whether you’re scaling mountains or roasting marshmallows.
If you loved our Beach Hair Hacks guide, you’ll adore these camping-friendly looks. From braids that prevent tangles to buns that survive sleeping bags, these styles prove that “roughing it” doesn’t mean sacrificing your ‘do. Ready to conquer the outdoors and bad hair days? Let’s dive in!
What Are Camping Hairstyles?
Ever wondered how some people manage to look put-together after days in the wilderness? Camping Hairstyles are all about practical charm: think braids, buns, and twists that stay secure through wind, sweat, and campfire smoke. Unlike finicky salon styles, these looks embrace a little messiness—and actually improve with each day of adventure.
Fun fact: French braids were originally worn by Alpine farmers to keep hair tidy during long workdays! Today, they’re a camping staple (along with their cousins: Dutch braids, fishtails, and more). As the saying goes, “Life is better with happy hair”—especially when you’re offline and soaking up nature.
Ready to find your perfect camp-friendly ‘do? Let’s get styling!
Why You’ll Love These Camping Hairstyles
1. They Save Time (and Sanity)
No more wrestling with knots at dawn! These styles take under 10 minutes and last days—leaving you free to hike, swim, or nap in your hammock.
2. Protect Your Hair
Braids and buns minimize breakage from wind, dirt, and UV rays. Bonus: Less tangling = less frantic brushing later!
3. Look Cute Without Trying
From “I woke up like this” messy buns to intricate-looking (but easy!) rope braids, these styles elevate your campfire selfies.
Love low-maintenance beauty? Try our No-Wash Hairstyles next!
12 Easy Camping Hairstyles
1. The Classic Braid
Best for: All hair lengths
- Simple three-strand braid
- Works on wet or dry hair
- Add a bandana for extra style
2. Double Dutch Braids
Best for: Active days
- Keeps hair completely contained
- Prevents tangles while hiking
- Looks cute with a ball cap
3. Messy Top Knot
Best for: Quick mornings
- Gather hair into high ponytail
- Twist and wrap into loose bun
- Perfect with sunglasses
4. Bandana Headband Style
Best for: Short hair
- Fold bandana into headband
- Tuck shorter pieces behind ears
- Protects hair from sweat
5. Rope Braid Ponytail
Best for: Medium-length hair
- Split hair into two sections
- Twist sections around each other
- Secure with hair tie
6. French Twist
Best for: Dressier camp nights
- Twist hair along scalp
- Secure with bobby pins
- Surprisingly easy to do
7. Braided Crown
Best for: Long hair
- Create two French braids
- Wrap around head like a crown
- Secure with pins
8. Half-Up Twisted Style
Best for: Versatile looks
- Take top section of hair
- Twist back and secure
- Leaves length down but controlled
9. Low Fisherman’s Braid
Best for: Water activities
- Tight Dutch braid at nape
- Stays put while swimming
- Prevents tangles
10. Space Buns
Best for: Fun vibes
- Part hair down middle
- Create two high buns
- Playful and practical
11. Scarf-Wrapped Ponytail
Best for: Extra protection
- Make low ponytail
- Wrap long scarf around base
- Ties into cute bow
12. The “I Give Up” Bun
Best for: Last resort
- Gather all hair
- Twist into messy bun
- Secure with extra hair tie
How to Do These Camping Hairstyles
Quick Overview
All you need: hair ties, bobby pins, and 5 minutes. No heat tools, no products—just simple techniques that work on all hair types and lengths.
What You’ll Need:
✔ Snag-free hair ties (ouch-free removal!)
✔ Mini hair clips (for half-up styles)
✔ Wide-tooth comb (for detangling)
✔ Optional: Headband, bandana, or hat
Step-by-Step Styles
1. The Unshakable French Braid
- Brush hair, then split into 3 sections at the crown.
- Braid downward, adding small sections as you go.
- Secure with a hair tie. Pro tip: Spritz with water to tame flyaways!
2. Messy Bun with a Twist
- Pull hair into a high ponytail, but don’t pull the last loop through.
- Twist the loop around the base, pinning loosely for “undone” volume.
3. Bandana Boho Ponytail
- Fold a bandana into a headband, tying at the nape.
- Gather hair into a low ponytail through the bandana knot.
What to Pair With Camping Hairstyles
- Dry shampoo (for refreshed roots)
- Satin scrunchie (gentler on hair overnight)
- UV-protectant spray (if swimming or hiking)
Top Tips for Perfect Outdoor Hair
✔ Braid hair before bed to avoid morning tangles.
✔ Use a silk pillowcase (or T-shirt) in your sleeping bag.
✔ Embrace texture—second-day hair holds styles better!
How to Maintain Your Style
- Refresh braids by misting with water and smoothing frizz.
- Switch styles every 2-3 days to prevent tension.
- Wear a loose beanie on extra-windy days.
Final Thoughts
With these Camping Hairstyles, you’ll spend less time fussing and more time enjoying the great outdoors—all while looking effortlessly cool.
Which style will you try first? Tag us in your #CampHairDontCare pics!
you can see more about How to Safely Transition Hair Color from Summer to Fall