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There’s nothing like a summer beach getaway – the feeling you get flying into a new city and stepping out of the airport into paradise. Ocean breezes, sand between your toes, and oh, those glorious rays of precious sunshine. But sometimes the over-excitement leads to an oversight and that golden glow expectation takes a turn of the boiled lobster variety. So, we’re here to remind you, an Insta-perfect hot dog legs photo isn’t worth the aloe-coated aftermath. After-sun regret is more painful than sand in your bathing suit, bee stings, or eating that tuna sandwich that’s been left out of the cooler too long. But, even the most vigilant sunscreen-savvy beachgoer has had an SPF-WTF moment. Hey, we all make mistakes. These unfortunate sun worshippers share their sunscreen fails so you can avoid your own.

The future’s so bright, you have to wear shades… and SPF 70. 

Unless you’re Jack Nicholson at the Oscars, don’t be the guy caught wearing sunglasses indoors.

Is it a sunburn, or is it a Rorschach test? 

We see an airplane taking off. What could it mean?

We should probably search for flights. But to where?

Friends don’t let friends apply aerosol spray sunscreen…

The hair tie struggle is real.

Someone give this guy a hand.

Or two.

“What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas” doesn’t apply to sunburns so lather up. Search for flights to Las Vegas.

Protection from the sun is that way.

But which way to the beach?

Sunscreen is a must in the Aloha State. Search for flights to Hawaii.

Got the time? 

Oh…

Much better.

Oh, look, it’s five o’clock.

SPF FTW

So, lather up…

…to avoid this.

Sun protection doesn’t have to be ruff. 

So, what are you waiting for? 

Search for your next summer getaway, and don’t forget the SPF.

Search for flights

Ever had your own sunscreen fail? Share your stories or pictures in the comments.

Main image: istockphoto/Paffy69

About the author

Amanda FestaAmanda is a Boston-based writer who loves to travel and believes planning her next adventure is half the fun. Amanda is a Content and Social Media Executive at Cheapflights.

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