Packing for a trip often involves strategic decisions about what to bring and what to leave behind. When it comes to skincare, sunscreen is non-negotiable, regardless of your destination. However, if you’re flying carry-on only, navigating the TSA’s 3.4-ounce liquid rule can be tricky. That’s where Travel Size Sunscreen comes to the rescue. These perfectly portable sun protectors ensure you can shield your skin from harmful UV rays without sacrificing precious luggage space or facing airport confiscation.
Almost every reputable sunscreen brand offers miniature versions of their popular formulas, making it easier than ever to find a travel size sunscreen that suits your needs. To simplify your search, we’ve rigorously tested 20 TSA-friendly options, evaluating everything from texture and effectiveness to ingredients and portability. Whether you’re planning a tropical escape or a city adventure, our comprehensive guide to the best travel size sunscreens will help you choose the perfect sun protection companion.
Our Top Picks for Travel Size Sunscreen
To cater to diverse preferences and needs, we’ve categorized our top travel size sunscreen recommendations. Whether you prioritize overall performance, budget-friendliness, hydration, or specific features like reef-safety, you’ll find an excellent option here.
Best Overall: Babo Botanicals Sheer Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50 at Amazon $19
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Best Budget: Banana Boat Sport Sunscreen Lotion at Amazon $8
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Best for Hydration: Coola Classic Body Sunscreen at Amazon
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Best Splurge: Shiseido Ultimate Sun Protector Lotion at Amazon
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Best Sheer: SALE Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen at Amazon $14 $11
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Best Reef-safe: MDSolarSciences Mineral Creme at Amazon $32
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Best Stick: Shiseido UV Clear Stick Protector SPF 50 at Amazon $32
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Best Mousse: Supergoop! PLAY Body Sunscreen Mousse at Amazon $20
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Best for Face: SALE Black Girl Sunscreen at Amazon $11 $9
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Best Spray: Coola Clear Sunscreen Spray at Amazon $12
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Best Overall Travel Size Sunscreen
Babo Botanicals Sheer Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50
PHOTO: Amazon
$19 at Amazon $19 at Ecosmetics.com View on Beautifiedyou.com
Why We Love It: This travel size mineral sunscreen boasts a lotion-like consistency, meaning a small amount provides ample coverage. It’s perfect for efficient packing and long trips.
What to Consider: A very subtle white cast may appear initially, but it disappears quickly as you rub the sunscreen into your skin.
Our top pick for travel size sunscreen is the Babo Botanicals Sheer Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50. Its impressive performance during our testing, including a four-day Hawaii trip, solidified its position as the best overall. We were particularly impressed by its texture, which defied the typical thickness of mineral sunscreens. Instead, it felt like a light, nourishing lotion that spread easily and absorbed rapidly. Applying it across both face and body before beach outings was a breeze, and we appreciated the minimal mineral scent and non-greasy feel.
The lightweight, slightly runny texture of this travel size sunscreen is a major advantage. A little product goes a long way, offering excellent value. Even after swimming in the ocean, the sunscreen remained effective, resisting transfer to clothes and towels. Using it multiple times daily for four days, we still had a significant amount left in the 3-ounce bottle. For reliable hydration and sun protection in a convenient travel size, Babo Botanicals is an exceptional choice.
The Details: SPF 50 | 3 ounces | 80-minute water resistance | Vegan | Cruelty-free and fragrance-free
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Best Budget Travel Size Sunscreen
Banana Boat Sport Sunscreen Lotion
PHOTO: Amazon
$8 at Amazon $4 at Target $10 $8 at Walmart
Why We Love It: This affordable travel sunscreen is ideal for active individuals and comes in a convenient two-pack of travel-size tubes, maximizing value.
What to Consider: The formula is not reef-safe, which is important for ocean enthusiasts and environmentally conscious travelers.
For budget-conscious travelers seeking reliable sun protection, Banana Boat Sport Sunscreen Lotion is an excellent choice. As one of the most recognizable and affordable brands, Banana Boat delivers effective sun care without breaking the bank. This travel size sunscreen comes in a pack of two 3-ounce bottles, providing ample sunscreen for your trip while easily fitting within carry-on restrictions.
Our digital editorial director, Nina Ruggiero, tested this travel size sunscreen on a Mexico trip and praised its no-fuss formula. She found it hydrating, effectively protective against the sun, and resistant to transferring onto clothing and swimwear. While the texture is somewhat thick, requiring a bit more rubbing for a sheer finish, it absorbs reasonably quickly. “It protected my skin on a long day out on a boat in the sun, and I got a nice glow but did not burn at all,” she reported. The only drawback is its non-reef-safe formula, which is a key consideration for those planning water activities in coral reef areas.
The Details: SPF 30 | 3 ounces | 80-minute water resistance | Oil-free and fragrance-free
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Best Travel Size Sunscreen for Hydration
Coola Classic Body Sunscreen
PHOTO: Amazon
View on Amazon $28 at Nordstrom $34 at Walmart
Why We Love It: Enriched with plant-based ingredients, this hydrating travel sunscreen nourishes and moisturizes the skin while providing sun protection.
What to Consider: This formula is primarily designed for body use and not specifically for the face, which may be a preference for some users.
If you prioritize hydration along with sun protection, Coola Classic Body Sunscreen is the ideal travel size sunscreen for you. “I love how it left my skin feeling moisturized and not goopy,” shared T+L outdoor gear editor Taylor Fox after using Coola’s Organic Classic Body Sunscreen daily for two weeks. “It didn’t feel like I was wearing sunscreen, but rather a high-quality body lotion.” This travel sunscreen is formulated with plant-based ingredients and is compliant with the Hawaii Reef Compliant Act, ensuring it’s free of chemicals harmful to coral reefs.
Each application of this travel size sunscreen was smooth and even, leaving no white cast or greasy residue. It effectively resisted transfer to clothing and towels and held up well to water exposure. Even with consistent use, nearly half of the 3.4-ounce bottle remained after two weeks, suggesting it’s a long-lasting option for trips of one to two weeks, depending on usage frequency.
The Details: SPF 50 | 3.4 ounces | 80-minute water resistance | Reef-safe | Vegan | Cruelty-free
PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Taylor Fox
PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Taylor Fox
Best Splurge Travel Size Sunscreen
Shiseido Ultimate Sun Protector Lotion
PHOTO: Sephora
Why We Love It: This luxury travel sunscreen formula is incredibly lightweight, absorbs completely, and a small amount is sufficient for full coverage, making it a worthwhile investment.
What to Consider: Some users might find the consistency slightly watery and oily upon initial application, although it absorbs quickly.
For those willing to invest in a high-end travel size sunscreen, Shiseido Ultimate Sun Protector Lotion is an exceptional choice. Despite its 1.6-ounce bottle size, a small dollop of this lotion spreads effortlessly, providing smooth, moisturizing coverage. The watery consistency makes it easy to apply, and just a little product goes a long way. While it initially feels slightly oily, the sunscreen absorbs within 5-10 minutes, leaving a completely sheer finish. Fragrance-sensitive travelers will appreciate its unscented formula, devoid of typical sunscreen smells. Water resistance is also impressive; when tested under running water, the formula remained absorbed without running off, confirming its 80-minute water resistance claim.
The Details: SPF 50+ | 1.6 ounces | 80-minute water resistance | Reef-safe
PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Cai Cramer
PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Cai Cramer
Best Sheer Travel Size Sunscreen
Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen
PHOTO: Amazon
$14 $11 at Amazon $15 at Target $12 at Walmart
Why We Love It: This sheer travel sunscreen absorbs into the skin completely in under a minute, making it incredibly convenient for quick application.
What to Consider: It has a noticeable, although subtle, floral scent that might not appeal to everyone.
Neutrogena’s Ultra Sheer Dry-touch Sunscreen excels in providing a barely-there feel, making it an ideal travel size sunscreen for those who dislike the sensation of wearing sunblock. The smooth, lightweight formula absorbs almost instantly upon application, leaving no greasy residue behind. Within just one minute, it becomes seamlessly integrated with the skin. A faint floral scent subtly masks typical sunscreen odors, which we found pleasant. The consistency strikes a good balance – hydrating enough without feeling heavy or leaving a white cast. While it did show some runoff when exposed to running water, it didn’t cause eye stinging, a common issue with some sunscreens. If you seek a travel sunscreen that feels virtually invisible, this Neutrogena option should be on your packing list.
The Details: SPF 55 | 3 ounces | 80-minute water resistance | PABA-free
PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Elena Garcia
PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Elena Garcia
PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Elena Garcia
Best Reef-safe Travel Size Sunscreen
MDSolarSciences Mineral Creme
PHOTO: Amazon
$32 at Amazon View on Mdsolarsciences.com $43 at Dermstore
Why We Love It: This reef-friendly travel sunscreen uses a mineral formula free of reef-damaging ingredients and absorbs more effectively than many similar eco-conscious sunscreens.
What to Consider: A slight white cast may appear if not rubbed in thoroughly, which is typical of mineral sunscreens.
For environmentally responsible travelers heading to coastal destinations, MDSolarSciences Mineral Crème SPF 50 Sunscreen is the top reef-safe travel size sunscreen choice. Free of oxybenzone and octinoxate, ingredients known to cause coral reef bleaching, this sunscreen prioritizes ocean health. While it has the expected thickness of a mineral sunscreen, thorough rubbing eliminates any initial white cast. Its versatility for use across the entire body is a significant advantage. Beyond being eco-conscious, this travel sunscreen utilizes ingredients like titanium dioxide and zinc, making it suitable for sensitive skin types, including acne-prone and rosacea-prone skin. MDSolarSciences emphasizes transparency by listing all ingredients on their website with detailed explanations of each component’s purpose.
The Details: SPF 50 | 1.7 ounces | 80-minute water resistance | Reef-safe | Vegan | Cruelty-free
PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Stella Yu
PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Stella Yu
The 11 Best Reef-safe Sunscreens, Tested and Reviewed
Best Stick Travel Size Sunscreen
Shiseido UV Clear Stick Protector SPF 50
PHOTO: Sephora
$32 at Amazon $32 at Target $32 at Nordstrom
Why We Love It: The stick applicator of this travel sunscreen stick allows for effortless and direct application without getting sunscreen on your hands, perfect for on-the-go touch-ups.
What to Consider: Applying a sunscreen stick all over the body might be more time-consuming compared to lotions or sprays.
Shiseido’s UV Clear Stick Protector SPF 50 is the ultimate travel size sunscreen stick for convenient, mess-free sun protection. Its compact size makes it perfect for everyday carry and quick application anytime, anywhere. Despite its small size, this stick packs a powerful SPF 50+ formula that glides on smoothly without leaving greasy residue on hands. While it may initially feel slightly greasy, the slight sheen disappears quickly upon rubbing in. “The stick of this sunscreen is clear, so I was delighted that there’s no white cast on my brown skin,” noted T+L associate director Morgan Ashley Parker. “After I applied it and rubbed it in, there was no way to tell where it had been applied as it fully absorbed into my skin, leaving no residue.” Its sweat-resistance was also tested during a 45-minute workout, proving it doesn’t run or rub off, making it an excellent travel face sunscreen option for outdoor activities like hiking and biking.
The Details: SPF 50+ | 0.7 ounces | Up to 80-minute water resistance
PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Morgan Ashley Parker
PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Morgan Ashley Parker
Best Mousse Travel Size Sunscreen
Supergoop! PLAY Body Sunscreen Mousse
PHOTO: Dermstore
$20 at Amazon $20 at Dermstore View on Supergoop.com
Why We Love It: The foamy texture of this travel size sunscreen mousse is not only fun to apply but also incredibly hydrating and dries faster than traditional lotions.
What to Consider: It can be difficult to gauge how much product remains in the bottle due to the mousse format.
For a fun and highly effective travel size sunscreen, Supergoop! PLAY Body Sunscreen Mousse is a standout. Our tester, Parker, is a big fan of Supergoop sunscreens, particularly this Blue Sea Kale Body Mousse. The top-press applicator dispenses a light, airy foam that’s easy to apply to both face and body. It has a faint, pleasant sunscreen scent that’s not overpowering. Parker often uses this travel sunscreen as a dual-purpose product, replacing body lotion during tropical vacations due to its moisturizing properties. “My skin is prone to dryness and this product feels moisturizing enough that it can replace a separate body lotion for me as well,” she explained. “Even when I’m in a hot climate or sweating, there’s no stickiness or evidence that something is on my skin.” The formula absorbs completely without any white cast or greasiness. Its playful whipped texture makes it especially appealing for families with kids, making sunscreen application less of a chore.
The Details: SPF 50 | 3 ounces | 80-minute water resistance | Cruelty-free | Vegan
PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Morgan Ashley Parker
PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Morgan Ashley Parker
PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Morgan Ashley Parker
Best Travel Size Sunscreen for Face
Black Girl Sunscreen
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PHOTO: Ulta
$11 $9 at Amazon $16 at Target $22 at Walmart
Why We Love It: This travel face sunscreen provides a sheer, glowy finish without leaving a white cast, especially formulated for darker skin tones.
What to Consider: The glowy finish, while desirable for many, might not be preferred by those seeking a matte look.
Black Girl Sunscreen Moisturizing Sunscreen Lotion is specifically designed for melanated skin, making it the best travel size sunscreen for face for those seeking no white cast and added skincare benefits. Formulated with ingredients like jojoba and avocado, it protects and hydrates skin effectively. We tested it over acne medication creams and found it layered smoothly without pilling or rubbing off upon contact with water. The fragrance-free formula is gentle, ideal for sensitive skin. If you want a facial travel sunscreen that imparts a healthy glow (not just greasiness), Black Girl Sunscreen is an excellent choice.
The Details: SPF 30 | 3 ounces | 80-minute water resistance | Cruelty-free and fragrance-free | Vegan
PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson
PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson
Best Spray Travel Size Sunscreen
Coola Clear Sunscreen Spray
PHOTO: Amazon
$12 at Amazon $28 at Target $28 $12 at Nordstrom
Why We Love It: The spray can of this travel sunscreen spray makes application incredibly easy and quick, especially for covering large areas and reaching the back. It also rubs in without greasy residue.
What to Consider: It features a noticeable tropical scent that, while pleasant, might be strong for those preferring unscented products.
Coola Clear Sunscreen Spray is the best travel size sunscreen spray for quick and convenient application, especially for those hard-to-reach areas like the back. Spray sunscreens simplify the process and this Coola option stands out with its lightweight, transparent SPF 30 formula. It avoids any pasty color or greasy finish, absorbing quickly after a light rub. The coconut scent is a major plus, transporting you to a tropical island with each application without being overly strong. This travel sunscreen spray dries rapidly and feels gentle and nourishing, thanks to its vegan and paraben-free formula. While the 2-ounce bottle might be better suited for weekend trips if used for full-body coverage, it’s perfect for shorter getaways needing lightweight, efficient sun protection.
The Details: SPF 30 | 2 ounces | 80-minute water resistance | Vegan | Cruelty-free
PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Alessandra Amodio
PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Alessandra Amodio
PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Alessandra Amodio
Best Lightweight Travel Size Sunscreen
Innisfree Daily UV Defense Sunscreen
PHOTO: Sephora
$18 at Amazon $18 at Sephora View on Innisfree.com
Why We Love It: This lightweight travel sunscreen has a consistency similar to a sheer lotion, making it feel weightless and comfortable on the skin.
What to Consider: It leaves a slightly shimmery finish, which may not be ideal for those seeking a completely matte look.
If you prefer a barely-there feel, Innisfree Daily UV Defense Sunscreen is the best lightweight travel size sunscreen we tested. Its consistency most closely resembles a sheer face moisturizer among all tested sunscreens. The formula, enriched with natural ingredients like green tea, cica, and sunflower seed oil, has a watery texture, feeling lighter than typical sunscreens. It’s perfect for workouts or outdoor activities where sweating is likely, as it resists running when exposed to water and absorbs rapidly without any clumpy or greasy residue. Instead, it provides a dewy finish, leaving the face looking refreshed and hydrated. A very subtle fragrance adds to its pleasantness without being overpowering, and it leaves no white cast after application.
The Details: SPF 36 | 1.69 ounces
PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Shana Stahl
PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Shana Stahl
Other Travel-size Sunscreens We Liked
Our testing process was highly competitive, and many sunscreens received positive feedback. However, the following five travel size sunscreens fell slightly short of our top picks due to minor issues like scent or white cast, but are still worth considering: List of other liked sunscreens from original article would go here if provided.
Our Travel Size Sunscreen Testing Process
Over a two-week period, Travel + Leisure editors rigorously tested 20 different travel size sunscreens, including liquids, sticks, and sprays. All selected sunscreens were designed to meet the standard carry-on liquid restrictions of 3.4 fluid ounces, ensuring they are truly TSA approved sunscreen options.
Whether tested at the beach, poolside, or during general outdoor activities, we evaluated each formula based on key criteria: texture, opacity, water resistance, and transfer resistance. To simulate real-world usage, we applied each travel sunscreen at least seven times across the entire body, assessing both immediate impressions and how long each bottle might last for a typical vacation.
The top-performing travel size sunscreens in our tests were characterized by easy application, smooth rub-in without white cast, and minimal transfer onto clothing. They also exhibited strong water resistance, holding up well to sweat and water exposure without irritating skin or leaving a greasy feel. Finally, we considered the overall value of each travel sunscreen by comparing its performance to its price point after testing was complete.
Tips for Buying Travel-size Sunscreen
Choosing the right travel size sunscreen involves more than just picking a familiar brand. Consider these key factors to ensure you get the best protection for your travels:
Look at SPF and UV Protection
The golden rule for sun protection is to choose a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Reapplication is crucial, especially after swimming or sweating. Aim to reapply every two hours, or more frequently if you’re active or spending extended periods in the water. Even water-resistant travel sunscreens require reapplication after 80 minutes of water exposure. It’s also wise to pack a travel size after-sun lotion to soothe skin in case of any accidental sunburn.
Consider Stick, Liquid, or Spray
Travel sunscreens come in various formats: lotions, sticks, and aerosol sprays. Sticks offer maximum convenience for travel, especially for carry-on luggage, eliminating worries about spills and easily meeting TSA liquid rules. They are also great as sunscreen stick travel size options for kids’ camping gear. Regardless of format, always prioritize broad-spectrum protection, water resistance, and an SPF of 30 or higher.
Know the Difference Between Chemical and Mineral Sunscreen
Understand the difference between chemical and mineral sunscreens to make an informed choice. Mineral sunscreens, also known as physical sunscreens, contain zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. They work by creating a physical barrier on the skin that reflects UV rays. Mineral formulas are often recommended for sensitive or acne-prone skin. Chemical sunscreens, on the other hand, absorb UV radiation and convert it into heat, releasing it from the skin. They tend to be thinner in consistency and apply more sheerly than mineral sunscreens. Consider your skin type and desired application experience when choosing between mineral travel size sunscreen and chemical options.
Opt for Reef-Safe Sunscreen if You’re Heading to the Beach
If your travel plans include beaches or ocean activities, choosing a reef safe travel sunscreen is crucial for protecting marine ecosystems. Many sunscreens contain chemicals like oxybenzone, octinoxate, octocrylene, and homosalate, which are known to harm coral reefs and marine life. Check the active ingredients list and avoid these chemicals to ensure your sunscreen is reef-safe. For a comprehensive list of harmful ingredients, consult resources like the Coral Reef Alliance.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Travel Size Sunscreen
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Can I bring travel-size sunscreen on an airplane?
Yes, absolutely. Travel size sunscreen is designed to comply with TSA liquid restrictions for carry-on luggage. The standard limit is 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) per container. You are typically allowed to bring a quart-sized bag filled with liquids, gels, and aerosols in your carry-on. For larger quantities or full-size sunscreens, you will need to pack them in your checked baggage. -
Can I carry on aerosol sunscreen?
Yes, aerosol travel sunscreen spray is permitted in carry-on bags, provided it adheres to the 3.4-ounce limit. If your aerosol spray exceeds this size, it must be placed in checked luggage to avoid confiscation at TSA security checkpoints. Always double-check specific airline regulations, though generally, TSA approved sunscreen in aerosol form is acceptable in carry-ons within size limits.
You May Also Need
Enhance your sun protection and beach experience with these recommended travel accessories:
BeachBUB All-in-One Beach Umbrella: Stay shaded and comfortable with this beach umbrella, praised for its portability, sturdiness, and user-friendly features.
Columbia Sun Trek T-shirt: Add an extra layer of sun defense with this UPF 50 t-shirt, offering moisture-wicking comfort for hot weather.
L.L.Bean Tropicwear Comfort Shorts: These versatile shorts provide UPF 50+ sun protection and water-repellent finish, perfect for beach days and outdoor activities.
Why Trust Travel + Leisure
Anna Popp, Associate Editor at Travel + Leisure, leads product writing and reviews, bringing extensive experience in travel writing since 2018 and product testing since 2021. Anna personally tested travel size sunscreen and collaborated with travel editors to determine the best options based on thorough testing by T+L editors and writers.
Article updated by Anne Taylor, Updates Writer at Travel + Leisure, who ensures content is current and accurate. As a frequent traveler to 23 countries, Anne constantly tests travel products to enhance her journeys. She holds a bachelor’s degree in news media and has seven years of writing and editing experience.
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