Can I Bring Sunscreen On a Plane? What You Need to Know

Airport security and sunscreen don’t always mix. Between liquid limits and unclear rules, figuring out what you can bring on board can feel like guesswork, especially with sprays and lotions. The question – ‘Can I bring sunscreen on a plane?’ is something many of us ponder when packing our suitcases for summer vacation. So, what’s the answer?

Let’s clear it up: yes, you can bring sunscreen on a plane. However, before you throw that family-sized bottle of lotion into your carry-on luggage, it’s not quite as simple as that. There are a few important details you need to know.

Can I Bring Sunscreen On A Plane? Yes, But Follow the 3-1-1 Rule

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Can I Bring Sunscreen On A Plane in my carry-on luggage? As we just mentioned, yes, you can, but there’s a caveat to that statement: you must follow the 3-1-1 rule. The US’s TSA (and similar agencies around the world) follow this rule for liquids. That means each liquid item must be:

• 3.4 ounces (100 ml) or less
• In a clear, quart-sized plastic bag
• One bag per passenger

Sunscreen falls into the “liquids” category, even if it’s more of a cream or gel. So if your sunscreen comes in a larger bottle, it’s going to need to go in checked luggage. And no, you can’t fudge it. Airport staff have seen it all.

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But What About Solid Sunscreen Sticks?

Here’s where things get easier: sunscreen sticks are viewed as solids, so they aren’t subject to the 3.4 oz liquid limit. That makes them a dream for travelers, as there’s no need to squeeze your favorite SPF into tiny travel containers or risk a mid-flight spill.

They’re compact, mess-free, and fit neatly into your handbag or backpack. Better yet, some mineral-based options offer broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection without feeling sticky or greasy. For anyone with sensitive skin, they also come in sheer formulas (meaning they go on invisibly with no white cast), which are often gentler too, as they don’t tend to contain unnecessary fragrances or irritating ingredients.

It will come as no surprise, then, that more people are swapping their liquid sunscreens for a lightweight stick when they travel. Less fuss, no leaks, and total peace of mind at the security checkpoint.

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Other Reasons a Stick Is the Best Travel Companion

Think about it: when you’re travelling, you want skincare that keeps up with you and your plans. Whether you’re sightseeing under the sun or hiking at high altitudes, you need reapplication to be fast, clean, and portable. A small, mineral sunscreen stick fits right in, both literally and figuratively.

You also don’t have to worry about it exploding in your bag, and because many of these sticks are designed for sensitive areas like the face, they’re easy to swipe on without using your hands – perfect when you’re on the go or in a place where handwashing isn’t easy.

Some formulas even have that barely-there feel, with a matte, non-greasy formula that goes on great under makeup or sunglasses without smearing. When you travel, it just makes sense.

Can I Bring Sunscreen on a Plane? – Absolutely!

When you’re flying, stick to sunscreen sticks if you want the easiest, most hassle-free experience. You’ll breeze through security, avoid mid-flight messes, and keep your skin protected no matter where your journey takes you.

Look for travel-ready sunscreen sticks that tick all the right boxes: mineral-based, water-resistant, non greasy, and suitable for sensitive skin. Once you’ve tried one, who knows? You might even find yourself reaching for it even when you’re not on the move.