Okay, let’s be real — nothing ruins vacation photos faster than a blotchy tan. You know the vibe: you finally land in Florida, ready to show off your sun-kissed glow, and by day three, your ankles are fading, your shoulders look uneven, and you’re low-key panicking every time you look in the mirror.
But here’s the thing — traveling with a spray tan doesn’t have to be a disaster. Whether you just got bronzed at your salon, or one of the other amazing Jacksonville Florida tanning salons like Sundays Sun Spa Wellness , keeping your color fresh through sand, salt, and humidity is totally doable. You just need to pack smart and baby that glow like it’s your best accessory (because honestly, it is).
Before You Even Pack: Let’s Talk Prep
If you’re getting your tan done locally before your trip, timing matters. Most Florida tanners recommend scheduling your session 1–2 days before you travel, so the color can fully develop and set before you hit the road.
Here’s how to prep like a pro before your tan:
- Exfoliate the night before. Use a gentle sugar scrub or an exfoliating mitt — nothing too harsh. Your goal is smooth, even skin so your tan goes on flawlessly.
- Shave or wax 24 hours before. If you do it right before, your pores might open up and create those tiny “dot” marks (we’ve all been there).
- Skip lotions, perfumes, and deodorants on tanning day. They can mess with the tanning solution and cause streaks.
- Wear loose, comfy clothes. Think oversized tee, maxi dress, or soft joggers. Florida humidity already sticks to your skin — don’t add tight clothing to the mix!
And if you’re new to spray tanning, ask your tech at Sunday Sun Spa Wellness about the best formula for your skin tone and trip type. Going beachy? Opt for a warm, golden tone. Heading to a wedding? Go for something subtle and photo-friendly.
Your Florida Glow Survival Kit
You don’t need to bring your whole bathroom — just a few key essentials that’ll help your tan stay smooth and even while you’re traveling:
- Gentle, pH-balanced Body Wash
Harsh soaps strip your tan. Pack a mild, hydrating wash — something sulfate-free. Many locals love the Gold Reserve, and it’s easy to find in tanning boutiques around Florida. - Oil-Free Moisturizer
This is your glow’s best friend. Use it morning and night to keep your skin hydrated. The moment your skin dries out, your tan starts to flake. - Tan Extender Lotion
You’ll thank yourself for packing one of these. A tan extender helps keep your color fresh longer, especially if your trip includes pool time or long beach walks. - Baby Wipes or Face Wipes
Florida humidity = sweat. Wipes are perfect for quick fresh-ups when you’re out and about without disturbing your tan. - Loose, Breathable Outfits
Flowy dresses, soft cotton shorts, or linen sets are ideal. Tight straps and seams can cause rub marks, especially when the weather’s warm. - Dark Swimsuit
The ocean and pool water can fade your tan, so pick darker swimwear to hide any light color transfer. - Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen
This one’s non-negotiable. Spray tans don’t protect against UV rays, so grab an oil-free SPF 30 or higher. Coola’s organic spray sunscreen is a favorite around here because it won’t mess with your tan. - Bonus: Portable Fan or Cooling Mist
Florida can get hot. A mini fan or cooling facial mist helps your skin stay calm and prevents streaks if you’re sweating.
Travel Day Outfit Tips
If your spray tanning near me appointment is the day before your trip, here’s the secret: treat your skin like it’s delicate silk.
- Choose dark, loose-fitting clothing.
- Skip the sports bra and tight leggings.
- Avoid anything that rubs — like a crossbody bag or snug seatbelt across your chest.
- If you’re flying, layer with a soft cardigan or light wrap. Planes can dry out your skin fast.
The more airflow your skin gets, the better your tan will set and last.
How to Protect Your Tan Once You’re in Florida
The second you hit the beach, the real challenge begins. Between the salt air, chlorine, and humidity, your tan needs a little TLC to survive the week.
Here’s how to keep your glow vacation-perfect:
- Moisturize religiously. Morning and night. Focus on dry spots like knees, elbows, and ankles.
- Keep your showers short and cool. Long, hot showers make your tan fade faster.
- Pat dry, don’t rub. Use a soft towel and dab your skin dry instead of dragging it.
- Rinse after swimming. Both ocean salt and pool chlorine can dry out your skin. Rinse with fresh water and apply lotion right away.
- Avoid exfoliating until your trip’s over. Unless you’re ready to remove the tan completely, keep scrubs away.
And pro tip: if you start noticing fading mid-trip, stop by Sundays Sun Spa Wellness for a quick top-up session. Many spray tan Jacksonville FL salons offer rapid-developing touch-up sprays that refresh your color in under 30 minutes.
Bonus Tips for Florida Travelers
- Keep the A/C on in your car — heat and humidity can make your tan feel sticky and uneven.
- Always sit on a towel or blanket after your tan, especially in light-colored car seats.
- Use a silk pillowcase if you can; it keeps your face tan from rubbing off overnight.
FAQs
Q: When should I get my spray tan before a trip to Florida?
A: Ideally, 1–2 days before. That way, your color has time to settle before the humidity hits.
Q: Can I tan and go to the beach the same day?
A: Not quite. Wait at least eight hours before swimming or sweating too much. Rapid tans may allow shorter wait times — ask your salon tech!
Q: Does saltwater ruin a spray tan?
A: It can fade it faster. Just rinse off after your swim and reapply lotion.
Q: Can I use sunscreen over my spray tan?
A: Absolutely — and you should! Choose an oil-free SPF so it doesn’t break down your color.
Q: How do I keep my tan from getting patchy in the heat?
A: Stay hydrated, moisturize often, and blot sweat gently instead of wiping.
Final Glow Thoughts
A spray tan and a Florida vacation? That’s the ultimate combo. But to keep your bronzed glow looking flawless from check-in to checkout, you’ve got to pack smart, prep right, and stay consistent with your aftercare.
Bring your gentle cleanser, oil-free lotion, dark swimsuit, loose clothes, and SPF — and your glow will easily survive the salty breeze and summer heat.
Whether you’re lounging by the boardwalk, brunching at Waterman’s, or dancing barefoot at a beach wedding, your tan should look effortless — not stressful.
So go ahead, book that custom spray tan, throw your essentials in a tote, and hit the road to Florida. You’ll be glowing all vacation long — promise.
