There’s something special about packing for sunny getaways. Whether it’s a beach break, a city escape, or something a little more adventurous, the sunshine always seems to lift the mood. But while we’re busy choosing outfits and sorting travel plans, skincare often ends up an afterthought. Over the years, I’ve learnt (sometimes the hard way) that your skin definitely notices when your routine is suddenly flipped upside down by new climates, long flights, and changes in diet or water.
So now, I make holiday skincare a priority—especially for those longer trips where I know I’ll be exposed to stronger sun, salty sea air or humid environments. Even when travelling light, I still make room for my core essentials that keep my skin feeling fresh and cared for from day one to the flight home.
If you’re planning a sun-soaked escape—maybe even browsing some Luxury Cruise for your next getaway—it’s worth giving your skincare routine a little attention before you go. Here are the products I never travel without and the reasons they’ve earned a permanent spot in my wash bag.
1. Lightweight Gel Cleanser
When the weather’s hot and sticky, anything too creamy or heavy just doesn’t sit right on the skin. I always switch to a gentle gel cleanser that removes sweat, SPF, and any environmental build-up without stripping the skin’s moisture barrier. Ingredients like aloe vera, chamomile and green tea work beautifully to soothe and refresh after a long day in the sun.
For travel, I’ll often decant a favourite into a smaller bottle or use a travel-sized version to save space.
2. Vitamin C Serum
This is my year-round staple, but it’s particularly valuable on holiday. Vitamin C helps to brighten the complexion, even skin tone, and offers antioxidant protection against free radical damage—which can be higher when you’re exposed to more sunlight.
It’s one of those products that makes skin look more awake, even when you’re feeling a bit jet lagged. I use it in the morning, under moisturiser and SPF.
3. Cooling Face Mist or Hydrating Toner
This might seem like a ‘nice-to-have’, but I genuinely find a mist to be one of the most useful travel skincare products for those sunny getaways. When I’m sitting in the sun, on a plane, or even just walking around sightseeing, a quick spritz helps my skin feel hydrated and refreshed.
Look for one with soothing ingredients like cucumber, rosewater, or panthenol. Bonus points if it comes in a handbag-friendly size that’s easy to reapply throughout the day.
4. Broad-Spectrum SPF
It almost goes without saying, but SPF is non-negotiable. I wear a broad-spectrum facial SPF 50 every single day on holiday, reapplying regularly—especially if I’m swimming or sweating. For my body, I tend to go for a spray or lotion that’s easy to apply and doesn’t feel greasy.
Don’t forget those often-missed spots either: ears, scalp partings, the backs of knees and tops of feet. I also pack a lip balm with SPF to avoid sore, chapped lips.
5. Soothing After-Sun Moisturiser
Even with the best intentions and protection, your skin can still feel a little warm, dry or irritated after a full day outdoors. That’s where a good after-sun product comes in. I usually opt for a lightweight gel or fragrance-free lotion with ingredients like aloe vera or hyaluronic acid.
I’ll apply it generously in the evening after showering, letting it sink in while I relax with a book or get ready for dinner.
6. Overnight Mask or Rich Moisturiser
Travelling (especially flying) can make your skin feel unusually dry or tight, so I always bring a richer moisturiser or overnight mask for a deeper hydration hit. It’s ideal if I’ve overdone the sun or just want to wake up looking fresh for the next day’s activities.
Some of my favourites are ones that work while you sleep—formulas designed to repair and replenish skin overnight, without being heavy or sticky.
7. Multipurpose Balm
A true travel multitasker. I keep a small balm in my hand luggage and one in my main bag. They’re brilliant for dry patches, cuticles, elbows, and even taming flyaways. If my skin’s feeling a bit overwhelmed from weather changes or travel stress, a calming balm can help soothe things quickly.
Look for ones with minimal ingredients and no added fragrance if you have sensitive skin.
8. Cleansing Cloths or Reusable Pads
I still double cleanse when I travel, but to make things easier, I pack a few reusable cotton pads or soft microfibre cloths. They take up hardly any space, are great for removing cleanser or masks, and can be washed and reused throughout your trip.
They’re also ideal if you’re trying to keep your routine low-waste while travelling.
9. Sheet Masks for an Extra Treat
I don’t always take these, but if I’ve got a bit of room or a long flight ahead, I’ll pop in a couple of hydrating sheet masks. They’re brilliant for a pick-me-up after travel or a full day in the sun. Just ten minutes lying back with a cooling mask can make such a difference to how my skin feels—and honestly, it’s a lovely way to unwind too.
Everyone’s skin is different, and skincare doesn’t need to be complicated on your sunny getaways. My golden rule is to keep things simple and focus on hydration, sun protection and gentle care. A solid core routine means I can enjoy my trip without worrying about breakouts or irritation—and my skin tends to thank me for it when I get home.If you’re planning a sunny escape soon, perhaps something a bit different, like browsing through some sunny getaways, having a skincare plan in place can make all the difference. A little prep before you travel can go a long way in helping you feel confident and comfortable in your skin, wherever the journey takes you.
