A sunny beach day or a tropical cruise feels like pure paradise, but too much exposure to the sun can quickly ruin the fun. While most travelers remember to pack sunscreen, many lesser-known sun safety habits are often overlooked.
Failing to consider these details can lead to sunburn, heat exhaustion, or long-term skin damage. Here are the tips seasoned travelers swear by to stay safe under the sun.
Time Your Sun Exposure
According to The Skin Cancer Foundation, UV radiation can cause nonmelanoma skin cancers, making prevention essential for every traveler.
The sun’s rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., and that’s when most beachgoers are outside. Instead of spending the entire midday in direct sunlight, plan your outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
Not only will you reduce your risk of overexposure, but you’ll also enjoy more pleasant temperatures and smaller crowds at popular beaches and pools.
Don’t Forget Protective Clothing
Even with sunscreen, clothing remains one of the most effective defenses against harmful UV rays. Lightweight, long-sleeved shirts, wide-brimmed hats, and UV-blocking sunglasses offer protection without overheating you. Many modern fabrics are breathable and designed explicitly with UPF ratings, making them ideal for travelers.
Packing a stylish cover-up or rash guard also helps if you’re planning on snorkeling, surfing, or spending long hours in the water.
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Stay Hydrated and Cool
Sun safety isn’t just about skin—it’s about your whole body. Heat exhaustion and dehydration can sneak up on you quickly, especially when combined with alcohol or physical activity. Make it a rule to carry a refillable water bottle and sip regularly, even if you don’t feel thirsty.
Consider packing electrolyte packets or drinks for longer beach days. Staying hydrated helps keep your body cool and prevents fatigue and dizziness.
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Reapply More Than You Think
A single coat of sunscreen in the morning won’t last all day. Between swimming, sweating, and towel-drying, protection wears off faster than most people realize. Experts recommend reapplying every two hours, or more often if you’re in and out of the water.
Travel-sized sunscreens are handy for excursions, so you’ll never have an excuse to skip a reapplication.
Protect Your Lips and Scalp
Two of the most overlooked spots for sunburn are your lips and scalp. Use a lip balm with SPF and reapply it frequently to protect your lips. For your scalp, a hat provides the best defense, but spray sunscreens designed for hairlines can also help if you’re not wearing one.
These areas are often overlooked and forgotten until it’s too late. A little extra attention here can save you a lot of discomfort.
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Create Your Own Shade
Umbrellas, beach tents, or even lightweight shawls can create shade when natural options are limited. This is especially important for families with children or travelers spending long hours outdoors. Having a shady retreat gives your skin a break and lets you enjoy the beach for longer.
Investing in portable shade gear pays off, especially when visiting destinations where the sun is relentless, as it offers comfort, protection, and longer-lasting enjoyment outdoors every day.
