How to Fake Tan Like a Pro While Travelling (Especially for Your Euro Summer!)

Dreaming of golden hour Aperols on the Amalfi Coast or sun-drenched beach clubs in Mykonos? Whether you're off on your Euro summer getaway or heading anywhere warm and wonderful, one thing is essential: a flawless fake tan. Because let’s face it — a glowing tan makes every outfit pop, every photo better, and every moment feel just that little more luxe.

Travelling with fake tan (and keeping it looking fresh) takes some planning, but it’s easier than you think — especially with Naked Tan in your suitcase. From long flights to salty swims, this ultimate guide has you covered with tips to prep, apply, maintain and protect your glow on the go.

Why Fake Tan is Your Travel MVP

Sunbaking all day might sound like the dream, but the reality is:

• It’s bad for your skin (hello, premature ageing!)

• It can be patchy

• It doesn’t always give that perfect, even bronze

That’s why fake tan is your golden ticket to a safe, flawless tan without the sun damage. With Naked Tan, you get fast-developing, olive-based colour that looks like you just stepped off a yacht — minus the UV exposure.

Pre-Flight: How to Prep Before You Go

1. Tan the Day Before You Fly

Apply your Naked Tan spray tan or self tan the day before your flight. The colour will have time to fully develop and settle, so you board the plane looking bronzed and ready to roll off into the sunset.

2. Exfoliate and Shave 24–48 Hours Prior

Prepping your skin properly means your tan lasts longer, especially when travelling. Use an exfoliating mitt or gentle scrub, and make sure to moisturise dry areas afterward.

3. Use the Right Products

Oil-based products? Big no. Choose lightweight, moisturiser-friendly products like Naked Tan's Crème de la Crème and pack a mini one in your carry-on.

In Transit: Keep Your Glow Fresh

1. Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate

Planes are notorious for drying out your skin — and dry skin = flaky tan. Apply a light moisturiser before boarding and drink plenty of water.

2. Pack a Tanning Top-Up

Bring along Naked Tan Gradual Tan or a small bottle of self tan for touch-ups if your trip is longer than 5–7 days. The formula is quick, mess-free, and ideal for spontaneous beach detours.

On Location: Slay Your Glow Under the Sun

1. Sunscreen is Non-Negotiable

Just because you're tanned doesn’t mean you’re protected. Fake tan offers zero SPF, so a broad-spectrum sunscreen is a must.

Look for:

• Mineral sunscreen or zinc sunscreen (gentle, tan-safe)

• Tinted sunscreen (perfect if you want coverage and protection while skipping foundation)

• Reapply every 2 hours, especially if you're in the water

2. Moisturise Daily (Twice if You Can)

Your tan will fade faster in salt water, chlorine, and dry air. Combat this by applying moisturiser morning and night — it will extend your glow and keep your skin feeling nourished after all those Aperol-fuelled dance parties.

3. Avoid Tanning Oils

They might look glam, but tanning oil can break down your fake tan and even bake your skin. Swap it for shimmer lotions or hydrating glow products that are fake-tan-friendly.

4. Tan-Friendly Fashion Hacks

• Linen is your best friend: breathable and won’t rub your tan off

• Avoid tight straps or sticky sandals right after applying fake tan

• Pack dark pyjamas and loose clothing for travel tanning touch-ups

Tan Travel Essentials: Naked Tan’s Euro Summer Kit

Here’s what to pack:

• Naked Tan 2 Hour Tan (perfect for a quick glow before your next boat day)

• Gradual Tan for daily build-up or topping up mid-trip

• Crème de la Crème Moisturiser to lock in hydration

• Oil-free SPF for face and body

• Exfoliating mitt for gentle touch-ups

Extra Tips for a Picture-Perfect Tan

Tan Your Face Like a Pro

If you prefer not to tan your face, mix a small amount of tan into your face moisturiser or use a dedicated facial tanner. Don’t forget daily sunscreen!

Swimming? Be Strategic

• Rinse off salt/chlorine ASAP

• Pat skin dry instead of rubbing

• Reapply moisturiser and SPF after every swim

Last-Minute Plans? 20-Minute Tan to the Rescue

Naked Tan’s express 20 Minute Tan is perfect for spontaneous dinners, club nights or last-minute plans. Quick rinse, fast glow.

Fake Tan FAQs While Travelling

Q: Will fake tan come off on hotel sheets?
A: If it's fully developed and rinsed off, it's unlikely. Still, dark sheets or a towel barrier are a safe bet.

Q: Can I take fake tan in my carry-on?
A: Yes, just make sure it's under 100ml if you’re flying with it in hand luggage.

Q: Can I get a spray tan while on holiday?
A: Yes! If you’re in a big city or coastal area, many salons offer spray tans. Just make sure you’ve prepped your skin beforehand.

Travel Light, Glow Bright

Your Euro summer deserves a tan that turns heads — and keeps up with every beach, bar, and sunset photo. With Naked Tan, you’ll look radiant from take-off to touchdown. Remember: prep smart, moisturise daily, and protect your skin with SPF, and your glow will go the distance.

Bon voyage and happy tanning!