Traveling can be exciting, but protecting your skin from the sun is essential, especially on vacation. This guide explains How To Travel With Sunscreen, including the best types, sizes, and application tips.
Choosing the right sunscreen and packing it correctly can ensure you stay protected. Sunscreen is a must-have for any trip, whether you’re hitting the beach or exploring a new city. Knowing how to travel with sunscreen can make all the difference.
When it comes to packing sunscreen, there are a few options to consider.
Black Girl Sunscreen SPF 30 packaging
Best Sunscreen Options for Travel
Several sunscreens are great for travel, each with unique benefits. Here are a couple of top picks:
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Black Girl Sunscreen SPF 30: This moisturizing sunscreen is ideal for those seeking a dewy finish. It’s lightly scented and provides excellent protection. Some users find it a bit thick, making it harder to rub in completely. It’s available in 2-ounce and 3-ounce sizes, making it TSA-friendly.
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Supergoop Play Everyday Lotion SPF 50: Designed for both face and body, this sunscreen rubs in easily and becomes nearly transparent upon application. It has a pleasant scent and is available in bulk sizes, making it cost-effective. The 2.4-ounce bottle fits within TSA guidelines for carry-on luggage.
Supergoop Play Everyday Lotion SPF 50 packaging
Navigating TSA Guidelines for Sunscreen
Understanding TSA regulations is crucial when traveling with sunscreen in your carry-on luggage. The TSA limits the size of liquids to 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) per container. All liquids must fit in a single, quart-sized, clear plastic bag.
Bringing facial sunscreen ensures you have a product you prefer for sensitive areas like your face, ears, and décolletage. Many of the best face sunscreens come in travel-friendly sizes that comply with TSA regulations.
Stick sunscreens are another convenient option that typically meets the 3.4-ounce limit. While not ideal for full-body application, they are perfect for on-the-go reapplication.
Decanting Sunscreen: Is It Safe?
Decanting sunscreen involves transferring it from its original container to a smaller one. While this might seem like a good way to save space, it’s important to proceed with caution.
According to experts like Dobos, if you need to decant sunscreen, use it within a week or two. Leaving sunscreens in their original packaging is best to reduce the risk of microbial contamination.
Social media posts suggest that decanting sunscreen can make it less effective. More research is needed to determine how different containers, materials, and environmental conditions affect sunscreen formulas. It’s best to avoid decanting for longer trips.
Checked Bags vs. Buying at Your Destination
If you’re not checking a bag, decanting larger bottles into 3.4-ounce containers for carry-on might be tempting. However, this might not be worth the effort for trips longer than a weekend. The TSA’s liquid limit only covers about three full-body applications of sunscreen.
Bringing multiple small containers for multiple people over several days can be cumbersome. It’s often easier to bring a larger bottle in your checked bag or buy sunscreen at your destination.
Conclusion
Traveling with sunscreen doesn’t have to be a hassle. By understanding TSA guidelines, choosing the right products, and considering your travel plans, you can ensure you stay protected from the sun. Whether you opt for travel-sized sunscreens, stick sunscreens, or buying at your destination, prioritize sun protection for a healthy and enjoyable trip.
