Best Hairstyles for Holidays, Summer and Festivals in 2026

Holiday and festival season is when your hair needs to work the hardest. You want a style that looks incredible in photos, handles heat and humidity, survives swimming pools and sea water, and still looks good on day five.

That is a lot to ask. But with the right style and the right installation, it is absolutely possible.

Here are the best hairstyles for holidays, summer and festivals in 2026, specifically for Afro and natural hair.

Boho Knotless Braids

Boho braids are the ultimate festival hairstyle. The loose, curly ends give an effortless look that photographs beautifully. They are light, stylish and easy to dress up with accessories like beads, cuffs or ribbons.

Best for: Music festivals, beach holidays, city breaks.

Watch out for: Humidity can frizz the curly sections faster. Pack a lightweight curl cream or mousse.

Medium Knotless Braids

If you want something that lasts the full duration of your trip without needing much attention, medium knotless braids are the safest bet. They are versatile enough to wear down, in a ponytail, or in a bun.

Best for: Two-week holidays, beach trips, active holidays.

Watch out for: Chlorine and salt water can dry out the braids. Rinse with fresh water after swimming.

Fulani Braids

Fulani braids combine cornrows with hanging braids, often decorated with beads and cowrie shells. They are a statement style that suits summer perfectly.

Best for: Festivals, cultural events, holidays where you want a standout look.

Watch out for: The centre braid and front cornrows can loosen quickly. Get them done close to your departure date.

Passion Twists

Passion twists have a natural, textured look that blends well with summer vibes. They are lighter than braids and easier to style in different ways.

Best for: Resort holidays, evening events, warm-weather destinations.

Watch out for: They can unravel at the ends faster than braids, especially in water. Secure the ends properly before your trip.

Cornrows With Designs

Bold cornrow patterns are perfect for summer. They keep your hair flat and cool, which is exactly what you need in hot weather. Feed-in cornrows with creative partings or zig-zag designs are trending hard in 2026.

Best for: Active holidays, festivals where you will be dancing, gym holidays.

Watch out for: Cornrows on their own last two to three weeks. Time your installation so they are fresh for your trip.

Curly Crochet Styles

Crochet braids with curly hair give a big, voluminous look that is perfect for summer. You get the impact of a full head of curls without the manipulation to your natural hair.

Best for: City breaks, festivals, holidays where you want volume and movement.

Watch out for: Curly crochet can tangle in wind. Keep a wide-tooth comb or detangling brush handy.

Tips for Holiday Hair Prep

• Book your appointment at least one week before you travel. This gives you time to adjust and make sure the style sits well.
• Do not get braids the day before a holiday. Your scalp needs time to settle.
• Pack a satin pillowcase or bonnet. Hotel pillows will frizz your braids overnight.
• Bring a lightweight moisturising spray for your scalp.
• If you are swimming, rinse your hair with fresh water afterwards to remove salt and chlorine.

Final Thoughts

Your holiday hair should be one less thing to worry about, not one more. Pick a style that matches your plans, book a stylist who specialises in it and give yourself enough time before you travel.

On All Done, you can search for stylists by style, check their availability and book in minutes. Get your holiday hair sorted before you start packing.