How Many Days Before Your Vacation Should You Get a Spray Tan? A Complete Travel Guide

Why Timing Your Spray Tan Matters Before Vacation

One of the most common questions we hear is how many days before your vacation should you get a spray tan. Timing is crucial because a tan that’s too early can fade mid-trip, while one that’s too late might not develop evenly or could transfer onto clothing. The ideal window ensures your skin has enough time to absorb the spray tan solution fully, creating a natural, even glow that lasts through your first days of travel. By planning your tan with timing in mind, you can enjoy a flawless, photo-ready bronze from the airport to your vacation destination.

The Best Time to Schedule Your Pre-Vacation Spray Tan

For most travellers, the sweet spot is 1–2 days before your trip. This allows your spray tan to fully develop over the first 24 hours, giving you peak colour just in time for takeoff. Booking too early — more than three days in advance — risks your colour starting to fade while you’re still travelling, especially if you swim, sweat, or spend hours outdoors. Booking too late — the same day or night before — can result in uneven colour or excess bronzer that hasn’t settled properly. Sticking to the 1–2 day window is the safest way to ensure your vacation glow looks even and radiant.

Preparing Your Skin for a Pre-Travel Spray Tan

Preparation is just as important as timing. Exfoliate your skin 24–48 hours before your appointment to remove dead skin and create a smooth canvas. Shave or wax at least a day in advance to avoid irritation during tanning. On the day of your tan, avoid lotions, oils, deodorant, or makeup, as these can create barriers that prevent the solution from absorbing evenly. After your appointment, wear loose, dark clothing to let the spray tan settle naturally. These steps help ensure your tan is even, long-lasting, and ready for vacation photos.

Spray Tan Aftercare Tips for Travelling

Maintaining your tan while travelling is key to keeping it fresh. Once your tan has developed — usually within 8–24 hours — moisturize daily with an oil-free lotion to keep skin hydrated and prevent premature fading. Avoid long, hot showers and minimise friction on areas like elbows and knees. If you’ll be swimming or spending time in the sun, pat your skin dry afterward instead of rubbing. Always use sunscreen, even with a spray tan, because a spray tan does not protect your skin from burning. Applying a moisturizer with SPF before going in the water can create a protective barrier while keeping your tan looking even. By following these tips, your spray tan can stay vibrant and smooth throughout your trip, while protecting your skin from sun damage.

Final Tips and Booking Your Vacation Bronze

If you’re asking yourself how many days before your vacation should you get a spray tan, the answer is simple: 1–2 days before you travel. This timing, combined with proper preparation and aftercare, ensures your tan looks flawless from the moment you step off the plane. Remember, a spray tan is not sunscreen — you can still burn, so protect your skin with SPF and reapply as needed, especially before swimming or sunbathing. For travelers looking for a pre-vacation glow that’s long-lasting, even, and photo-ready, the Vacation Bronze at Airbrushed by Olivia is the perfect choice. Designed specifically for vacations, it develops quickly, gives a rich bronze colour, and keeps you glowing throughout your trip — so you can focus on enjoying your vacation, not worrying about your tan.

MOBILE SPRAY TAN SERVICES: Oakville, Burlington & General Hamilton Area