Lois Larson
Sunscreen is an essential item to pack for any trip, but travellers often wonder whether they can bring it on a plane. The short answer is yes, you can bring sunscreen with you on a plane, but there are some important regulations to keep in mind. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has specific rules regarding the amount and type of sunscreen that can be brought on board, and these rules vary for carry-on luggage and checked baggage. Additionally, some countries have implemented sunscreen bans to protect their marine ecosystems, so it's important to check the regulations of your destination before travelling.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Can you bring sunscreen on a plane? | Yes |
| Container size | 3.4 ounces (100 ml) or less |
| Container type | Non-aerosol |
| Container quantity | Multiple containers allowed, as long as total volume does not exceed 2 kg (70 ounces) or 2 L (68 fluid ounces) |
| Container storage | Liquids must be placed in a clear, resealable quart-sized bag |
| Exemptions | Sunscreen sticks, such as Shiseido, are exempt from liquid restrictions |
| Banned ingredients | Oxybenzone, octinoxate, octocrylene |
| Banned locations | Palau, US Virgin Islands, Aruba, Bonaire |
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What You'll Learn
Sunscreen volume restrictions: 3.4 oz (100 ml) max per container
Sunscreen is allowed on planes, but there are regulations you need to follow. Sunscreen is considered a liquid, and liquid items can't exceed 3.4 ounces (100 ml) in volume per container. Each passenger is allowed to bring one quart-sized (or litre-sized) bag of liquids in their carry-on luggage. This means that you can bring multiple containers of sunscreen, as long as each individual container does not exceed 3.4 ounces (100 ml).
It is important to note that these restrictions apply only to carry-on luggage. If you are travelling with checked luggage, you can pack larger containers of sunscreen there. However, even with checked luggage, there are still restrictions on the total amount of liquids allowed. According to the FAA, the total aggregate quantity of liquids per person cannot exceed 2 kg (70 ounces) or 2 L (68 fluid ounces). Additionally, the capacity of each container must not exceed 0.5 kg (18 ounces) or 500 ml (17 fluid ounces).
If you are travelling with sunscreen, it is recommended to place the containers in a small, clear bag and separate them from your carry-on baggage to facilitate the screening process. Sunscreen that is in the form of a solid stick or non-aerosol spray may not be subject to the same restrictions, but it is always a good idea to check with the TSA or your local airport authorities before travelling.
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Sunscreen type restrictions: no aerosols
While sunscreen is allowed on planes, there are some restrictions on sunscreen type, size, and quantity. Sunscreen in solid form is not restricted by liquid regulations, making it a convenient choice for carry-on luggage. Gels, liquids, creams, and lotions are subject to the same restrictions as other liquids and must be in containers of 3.4 oz (100 ml) or less for carry-on bags.
Aerosol sunscreens are allowed on planes, but they are subject to stricter regulations. They are treated as hazardous materials due to their flammability and pressurized canisters, which can leak or explode. For carry-on bags, aerosol sunscreens must adhere to the 3.4 oz (100 ml) limit. There are no size or quantity restrictions for aerosol sunscreens in checked luggage.
It is important to note that some countries have banned the import, sale, and distribution of sunscreens containing certain chemical ingredients, such as oxybenzone, octinoxate, and octocrylene, to protect their marine ecosystems. These bans are in place in places like Palau, the US Virgin Islands, Aruba, and Bonaire. Therefore, it is recommended to check the regulations of your destination country before travelling.
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Sunscreen bans: some places ban certain ingredients
While sunscreen is allowed on planes, there are regulations for both carry-on and checked luggage. You should also be aware of your destination's rules, as some places ban certain sunscreen ingredients.
Palau, for instance, was the first country to announce a sunscreen ban in 2018, prohibiting the import, sale, distribution, and production of sunscreen that contains oxybenzone, octinoxate, or octocrylene, among other chemicals. The ban was meant to protect coral reefs from toxic chemicals. Similarly, the US Virgin Islands banned sunscreens containing oxybenzone, octinoxate, and octocrylene in 2020. Aruba and Hawaii have also banned sunscreens with oxybenzone and octinoxate.
Some ingredients to avoid when choosing a reef-safe sunscreen include oxybenzone, octinoxate, octocrylene, and avobenzone. Instead, opt for mineral-based sunscreens containing zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. These sunscreens are widely available at major retailers.
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Sunscreen alternatives: sunscreen sticks, creams, and moisturisers
Sunscreen is allowed in hand luggage on planes, but there are some restrictions. The total amount of liquids, including sunscreen, must not exceed 2 kg or 2 litres, and each container must not exceed 0.5 kg or 500 ml. These restrictions apply to checked baggage. For carry-on luggage, the limit is 3.4 oz (100 ml) of liquid per container, and all liquids must fit in a quart-sized bag. It is important to note that some countries have banned sunscreens containing certain chemicals, such as oxybenzone, octinoxate, and octocrylene, due to their harmful effects on coral reefs. Therefore, it is recommended to use reef-safe sunscreens and check the regulations of your destination.
Now, let's discuss some sunscreen alternatives: sunscreen sticks, creams, and moisturisers. Sunscreen sticks are semi-solid formulas that are ideal for spot treatment. They are convenient for travel as they are usually compact and easy to apply. Sunscreen sticks are available in various formulations, including plastic-free and compostable cardboard packaging, making them a sustainable option. Some brands offer sticks for specific needs, such as sensitive skin, babies, and children. While sunscreen sticks are convenient, they might not be cost-effective for full-body application.
Sunscreen creams provide an alternative to traditional lotions. Creams can be easier to spread and are often designed for specific skin types, such as sensitive skin. For example, Badger's Active Mineral Sunscreen Cream SPF 30 is a runny cream that is easier to spread but may feel greasy and take longer to dry down. Creams can also be formulated to be lightweight and non-greasy, like the Zero Waste Face Sunscreen Stick, which replenishes moisture with coconut, sunflower seed, and castor seed oils, along with shea butter.
Moisturisers with SPF are another option for sun protection. Fenty Skin's Hydra Vizor Invisible Moisturizer SPF 30 is a creamy pink moisturiser that provides sun protection while also hydrating the skin. It has a slight sheen and a floral scent, although a fragrance-free version is available. Black Girl Sunscreen SPF 30 is another moisturising option that dries slowly and leaves a sticky layer, resulting in a glossy finish. It is important to note that moisturisers with SPF might not be suitable for oily skin types.
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Buying sunscreen: buying at your destination or mailing it to your hotel
If you're travelling carry-on only, you can bring sunscreen on a plane, but there are regulations you need to know for both carry-on and packed luggage. Sunscreen is classed as a liquid, so you can only bring a small amount in your carry-on luggage. In the US, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) allows you to bring a maximum of 3.4 ounces (100ml) of sunscreen in your carry-on. If you want to bring more than this, you'll need to check a bag.
However, it's worth noting that some countries and regions have banned certain types of sunscreen due to their impact on coral reefs. For example, Palau, the US Virgin Islands, Aruba, and Bonaire have banned sunscreens containing oxybenzone, octinoxate, and octocrylene. So, before you travel, it's important to check if your sunscreen is allowed at your destination.
If you don't want to deal with the hassle of packing sunscreen and adhering to these regulations, you can buy sunscreen at your destination. Most big international brands are available globally and can be found in local supermarkets or grocery stores. However, hotel and resort gift shops can be pricey, and you might not find your favourite brand. Sunscreens from Europe and Asia may feel lighter and more hydrating due to different approved sunscreen filters in these regions. If you have allergies or specific ingredient requirements, it's a good idea to research the options available at your destination in advance.
Another option is to mail your sunscreen and other toiletries to your hotel or accommodation ahead of time. This can be useful if you have sensitive skin or allergies and need to use specific products. However, unless you need special brands, it may not be worth the cost and effort of shipping. Instead, you could pack a small amount of your preferred products and buy more when you arrive, or try a local alternative.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can bring sunscreen on a plane, but there are some restrictions. Sunscreen is considered a liquid, so it must adhere to the liquid allowance rules.
Each liquid container must be 3.4 ounces (100ml) or less. All liquid items must fit in one clear, resealable quart-sized bag.
Traditional aerosol sunscreens are not allowed in carry-on or checked bags due to their flammable ingredients. Some countries have banned sunscreens with certain chemical ingredients, such as oxybenzone, octinoxate, and octocrylene, to protect marine life.
