Fit a fresh tempered glass protector before you go and pack a spare. Sand is harder than glass, and replacements are hard to find abroad. Add privacy glass only if you'll work on planes and trains. Keep phones out of direct sun: heat can soften protector adhesive.
Beaches and sand
Sand is mostly quartz, which is harder than glass. A sandy pocket will scratch any screen, protected or not; the protector just means the scratches land on something you can replace. Wipe sand off with a soft brush or a gentle blow, not a sweep of the hand, which drags grit across the glass.
Packing list
| Item | Why |
|---|---|
| Spare tempered glass for your model | Fit in the hotel bathroom after a shower |
| Microfibre cloth | Clean without dragging grit |
| Zip bag or waterproof pouch | Keeps sand and water off |
| Privacy glass (optional) | For laptop-style work on flights and trains |
Heat
Phones left in direct sun on sunloungers or dashboards can get very hot. Beyond the risk to the phone itself, heat can soften protector adhesive and cause lifting or bubbles. Keep the phone shaded, and let it cool before refitting a lifted protector.
Privacy while travelling
Airports, flights and trains are the situations privacy glass is designed for. If you'll be answering work email in a middle seat, it's worth it. For holiday use, it mostly makes photos look dim. See privacy protectors.
Questions people ask
Does sand scratch screen protectors?
Yes. Sand is harder than glass, so it can scratch both protectors and screens.
Should I bring a spare screen protector on holiday?
Yes, especially for beach trips. Fit it in a steamy hotel bathroom.