UAE traveller's guide: 8 beauty traps to avoid while flying or sightseeing

I remember travelling with a friend, who insisted on packing the bulkiest of bottles, shampoos, creams, and anything that could spell skincare, haircare. There was a giant moisturiser bottle that was stuffed into my bag too, because it didn’t fit into hers.

Let’s just say, a night before our trip to Scotland, we spent hours packing and unpacking and as it turned out, we forgot one essential ingredient: Sunscreen. And so, we returned sunburnt, with problems of excess baggage.

Travel is always fun, but from experience, your packing, and your skin and beauty routine, can take a hit. Your usual habits won’t always cut it when you’re on the go. So, before you jet off on your next getaway, here’s a handy guide: common beauty mistakes travelers make, and smarter swaps to keep you glowing wherever you roam.

Skipping sunscreen, because 'you’re not outside that much'

Mistake: Many travellers assume that if they’re mostly indoors or flying, they don’t need sunscreen.

Why it’s wrong: UV rays penetrate airplane windows and indoor lighting, causing premature aging and damage even on cloudy days.

What to do instead: Always apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ every morning—and reapply if you’re spending time outdoors. Pack a travel-size sunscreen for touch-ups on the go.

Over-packing heavy makeup

Mistake: Lugging around bulky foundations and powders ‘just in case.’

Why it’s wrong: Heavy makeup can clog pores in changing climates and feels uncomfortable on long flights. Moreover, if you’re away for a longer time, you can just buy shampoos on arrival, trying out local brands too, instead of packing bulky, large bottles into your bag that can cause leakage.

What to do instead: Streamline your kit with multi-use products, consider tinted moisturisers with SPF or cream blushes that double as lip tints. Keep it light and fresh.

Not hydrating enough

Mistake: Forgetting to drink water while focusing on sightseeing or catching flights.

Why it’s wrong: Dehydration dries out your skin, making it dull and irritated, especially after hours in recycled airplane air.

What to do instead: Carry a refillable water bottle. Set reminders on your phone to sip regularly. Complement hydration with a good moisturizing mist or hydrating serum.

Using harsh or new skincare products

Mistake: Trying out new or strong exfoliants, acids, or treatments right before or during travel.

Why it’s wrong: Travel can make your skin more sensitive—due to changes in weather, stress, and lack of sleep. Using harsh products during this time can easily lead to redness, irritation, or breakouts.

What to do instead: Stick to your tried-and-tested gentle routine. Introduce new products only weeks before you travel, so you know how your skin reacts.

Neglecting lip care

Mistake: Forgetting to protect and moisturise your lips.

Why it’s wrong: Dry airplane air and sun exposure can cause cracked, painful lips.

What to do instead: Use a nourishing lip balm with SPF throughout your journey. Keep one in your carry-on and one bedside.

Forgetting the night rest

Mistake: Skipping beauty sleep to cram sightseeing or partying.

Why it’s wrong:  When you're traveling, especially to exciting destinations, it's tempting to sacrifice sleep to squeeze in every bit of sightseeing, nightlife, or social events. However, skipping out on adequate rest can take a serious toll on your skin and overall appearance.

Lack of sleep disrupts your body's natural repair processes. During deep sleep, your skin regenerates cells, produces collagen, and balances hydration levels. Missing out on this crucial downtime leads to dullness, increased fine lines, puffiness (especially around the eyes), and even exacerbates acne or inflammation.

What to do instead: Prioritise sleep, even short naps help. Use a silk eye mask and calming skincare to support overnight repair.

Not removing makeup properly

Mistake: Leaving makeup on overnight clogs your pores, trapping dirt, oil, and bacteria. This buildup can lead to breakouts, blackheads, and irritation. Over time, it also prevents your skin from properly renewing itself, resulting in dullness and premature aging. Your skin needs a clean slate to breathe and regenerate while you sleep.

What to do instead: Always remove your makeup before bed, no matter how tired you are. Keep gentle cleansing wipes or micellar water handy for quick removal. Follow up with a gentle cleanser and moisturizer to restore hydration and support overnight repair. Your skin will thank you with a clearer, brighter complexion every morning.

Forgetting to adjust your routine to the climate

Mistake: Using the same heavy creams in humid destinations or skipping moisturiser in dry, cold climates.

Why it’s wrong: Skin needs change drastically based on temperature and humidity. Using the wrong products can lead to oiliness or dryness.

What to do instead: Pack lightweight, gel-based moisturisers for humid places and richer creams for dry climates. Consider adding facial mists for instant hydration.