Can you bring sunscreen on a plane? It’s a question that often gets asked during vacation prep, as you’ve got to take sun protection, right? Well, if you’re flying abroad or even domestically within the continental USA, it’s important to get informed, or you may end up having to leave something behind.
You see, it’s not as simple as saying, “Yes” or “No” and in this article, we’ll get into the nitty gritty, cool laser so that you head to the airport with complete confidence of what you’ll be able to bring along.
Can You Bring Sunscreen On a Plane? – Yes, But With Some Conditions
When answering the question, “Can you bring sunscreen on a plane?”, you must read the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) rules on the subject. They allow passengers to carry sun protection in their luggage, but the rules vary depending on whether it’s packed in your carry-on or checked baggage.
Here’s a quick breakdown of the facts….
- Carry-On Bags – Sunscreen is considered a liquid under TSA rules, meaning it must adhere to the 3-1-1 rule, which states:
- 3: Liquids, gels, or aerosols must be in containers of 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less.
- 1: All containers must fit into 1 quart-sized, clear, resealable plastic bag.
- 1: Each passenger is allowed 1 bag in their carry-on luggage.
If your favorite sunscreen is larger than 3.4 ounces, you’ll need to transfer it to a travel-sized container or leave it in your checked luggage.
- Checked Bags – There are no size restrictions for sunscreen in checked luggage. You can pack full-sized bottles without any issues. However, make sure the cap is secure to prevent leaks, as the pressure changes during the flight can cause liquids to expand.
What About Aerosol Sunscreens?
Both mineral and chemical sunscreens are permitted in carry-on and checked bags, so long as they meet TSA size restrictions. Aerosol sunscreens are also allowed but must follow the same 3.4-ounce rule for carry-ons. When talking about checked luggage, aerosol cans must have a protective cap to prevent accidental spraying and a suitcase full of damaged clothes.
Pro Tips for Traveling with Sunscreen
Now that we’ve covered the basic rules, here are a few extra tips on how to travel with sunscreen that can make life easier.
- Always Ensure You Seal Bottles Properly – To avoid messy spills, place your sunscreen bottle in a resealable plastic bag. Consider taping the cap for extra security. It might seem a little over-cautious, but it can save you from a nasty surprise when you open your suitcase after checking into your hotel.
- Consider Stick Sunscreens – These handy alternatives are not considered liquids and don’t have to comply with the 3-1-1 rule. They’re a great way to ensure you always have SPF protection handy.
Can You Bring Sunscreen On a Plane? Absolutely!
The question we’ve answered here is an important one, as you really should wear sunscreen while flying. UV rays are more intense at cruising altitudes and airplane windows don’t completely block UVA rays. As such, you should apply sunscreen before boarding and reapplying every 2 hours of your flight (especially on long-haul trips) is crucial for skin health.
So, yes, you can bring sunscreen on a plane in the USA, but you’ll need to follow TSA’s liquid rules for carry-ons or pack it in your checked luggage. With a little preparation, you can ensure your skin stays protected no matter where your travels take you.
