Headlamps have always been one of my favorite forms of flashlights. To me, it just makes sense that I’d want light where ever I was looking and the added benefit of hands-free functionality is icing on the cake.
That being said, it’s not always convenient for me to carry a headlamp strap and even when I do, they tend to be somewhat awkward and bulky. Here are a couple of cheap, easy solutions that I use almost every day.
One of my favorite headlamps is the Nitecore NU20, but this can be applied to many other lights of the same configuration. The way that I take the strap out of the equation is by attaching the lamp directly to the back of my ball cap. Yes, it requires that you use a certain type of ball cap, but caps like this can be purchased for around $10 and I always have a plethora of them lying around the house and in my car. The type I like to use are the ones with the velcro closure in the back. Here’s a few pictures of how I mount my NU20 to a ball cap.
I really like the NU20 for this purpose. It’s low profile and light weight mean I can leave it permanently attached and hardly notice it’s there. As soon as the need comes up, all I need to do is flip it around and BOOM! Instant headlamp!
This next one is how I use a ballcap and some computer cable ties to allow me to use an angled flashlight as a headlamp without needing to carry a strap. This is the velcro (hook and loop fastener) stuff I like to use. This picture is from Walmart. $6.24 for a 4 roll pack. Each roll has a lot of individual straps. I’m guessing at least 15 straps per roll? Was in the sewing area, but I’ve also seen it in tech stores, OfficeMax, etc… Also, while not the same thing, a lot of home and garden stores have hook and loop tape for staking plants, etc… Just noticed that what I’m using is actually 1/2” and what’s in the pic is 1”.
Closeup
The strap in front is folded over twice. When opened up, the length of each strap is about 15” (38cm). I like these straps because they are reusable and not as thick as your typical velcro stuff. I always carry a roll in my carry bag and I also wrap a few around my belt, where they are pretty unobtrusive and easy to access, should I need them. Also have a few on my molle webbing of my pack. They aren’t super strong and won’t replace cordage for heavy work but very convenient for light duty.
This is how I use it with my ballcap. In this case, I’ve cut off the end slot, choosing to just wrap the strap around the back of the cap. Can add a double loop if more support is required.
Here it is with a Skilhunt H15. As it is mounted, removal of the clip was not necessary and the light is also free to swivel up and down but still remain securely in place.
What I don’t like about this solution is that it is uncomfortable to wear in a vehicle with the light facing forward. The bill of the cap hits the seat/headrest, forcing you to lean forward.
So what do you do with the headband of the NU20, now that you don’t need it? Why I’m glad you asked. 
Carrying it this way is convenient AND I can use the velcro to make a loop to fit any other angled light I happen to be carrying.
Oh, and in a pinch, the velcro straps can be formed into a headstrap and loop for your light.