Traveling in Hijab: What’s the Scoop?

The first thing someone notices when looking at me is that I cover my hair (𝙤𝙗𝙫𝙞𝙤𝙪𝙨𝙡𝙮). In this phase of my journey, I really enjoy it, but that wasn’t always the case. It feels like a crown that I truly have the freedom to change to match my mood, outfit, etc. and I’ve grown to really love it.

When I first reverted to Islam, I lost all sense of style (exhibit A on the left). I was almost forced into getting rid of all my clothes (some very necessary lol) and transitioned to this granny-style wardrobe that was NOT becoming of a 23-year-old young lady. So over the past few years, I really had to come into my own style because I ended up resenting my hijab and associating my hair with no style. And that’s not synonymous. Now Muslim women around the world have the benefit of having modest fashion friendly companies and hijab brands that allow Muslim and modest dressing women to express themselves through fashion. I know here in the US there was a DROUT when it came to modest fashion. You’d have to catch all the department stores on the offseason to get anything that kind of looked cute to piece together without looking like a trash bag. Now thanks to companies like culture hijab, modanista, vela scarves, gesso, and many many more, reverts and even Muslim born women can feel empowered through fashion and its a beautiful thing! (See exhibit B below) 😅.

When it comes to traveling and having my hair covered, I haven’t experienced many issues if at all. Usually, when I am traveling domestically (US) or even at home, I get a lot of compliments and questions about how I tie my scarf and where I get them from. It’s actually a confidence booster for me, as it brings a level of curiosity to the mix when you see or meet me (easy convo starter lol “what’s that on your head?”).

Traveling internationally, I get similar responses. Since I don’t wear my hair in a traditional hijab style or fashion, I do believe people may not associate me with Islam right off the bat. So for that, I feel any stigma or negativity may sometimes miss me unknowingly.

So if you’re thinking about trying that head covering, do it!! And be unashamed when you do. Make sure its a decision you want to make and wear it with confidence. Even if you’re going to cover for fashion, try it anyway. There aren’t any rules. And in regards to customs and security through airports, Muslim women travel A LOT, and the most discrimination you’ll face is in your own backyard (US). I hope this helps!