Shivers went down my spine as I read in yesterday’s paper that two million – I repeat, two MILLION – people will have fled the country this weekend for their summer holiday. The thought of muggy Stansted airport with that sheer volume is enough to make anyone feel rather sickly at this very moment. Though I suppose there are the plus points for those left behind, like less people on the Piccadilly line at 8.34am. And fewer cars on the road when you want to escape the city on a Friday evening. 

Still, it’s a sure-fire marker that the holiday season is in full swing. But I’ve got something to unearth to you all while you’re debating whether to buy that paisley Etro kaftan (go on, just get it). Something holiday related that’s of the utmost importance: pre-holiday prep.

I’m not talking about exfoliating your skin to within an inch of its life. I’m talking about drinking carrot juice and eating almonds to help prepare your skin for the sun – I swear to God this makes all the difference. Truly. They’re what stops you being sun frazzled on day one and ending up shade-bound for the rest of the holiday. They’re what prevents you from returning home with scarecrow hair. 

The ultimate nine pre-holiday tips are in the gallery above. Don’t say we didn’t tell you.