Sunscreen At Airports: Where To Find It

Sunscreen is an essential item for many travellers, especially those heading to sunny destinations. While it is possible to bring sunscreen on a plane, it must adhere to liquid restrictions. This has led to some travellers opting to buy sunscreen at the airport instead. But do airports sell sunscreen?

Sunscreen is available at most airports

If you are bringing your own sunscreen, it is important to note that there are restrictions on the volume of sunscreen you can bring onto a plane. Sunscreen is subject to the LAGs (Liquids, Aerosols and Gels) regulation, which states that liquids must be less than or equal to 100ml/3.4oz in volume. This rule applies to any liquid toiletries, such as perfumes and deodorant, and they must be packed inside a clear, ziplock plastic bag.

If you are travelling with sunscreen in your luggage, it is recommended to follow these guidelines:

• For aerosol sunscreen, the container must have a cap to prevent the risk of unwanted release.
• Use tape on the caps of sunscreen containers for extra protection.
• Put the containers into a plastic bag to prevent accidental release.
• Seal the bag carefully.
• Place the bag in the middle of your luggage and use your clothes as extra protection.

It is also important to note that certain types of sunscreen are banned in some places, such as Hawaii, due to their negative impact on coral reefs. These sunscreens typically include ingredients such as oxybenzone and octinoxate, which can lead to the bleaching of coral reefs. Alternative options include mineral-based sunscreens or those containing zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which are reef-friendly.

It is usually more expensive at the airport

Although sunscreen is available at most airports, it is often much pricier than buying it in advance or at your destination. One source suggests that sunscreen is a product you should try to buy ahead of time, as it will likely be more expensive at the airport or your holiday destination. Another source recommends buying sunscreen at your destination, as it will be cheaper than at the airport.

However, if you are travelling to a remote location, it may be worth buying sunscreen at the airport, as it may be difficult to find elsewhere. One source suggests that sunscreen is probably available at most airports, but you will "pay through the teeth for it".

If you are flying from the UK, you can check which shops are available at the airport by looking on the airport's website. This will give you an idea of where to buy sunscreen and how much it might cost.

If you are flying with carry-on luggage only, remember that sunscreen is subject to the same liquid restrictions as other toiletries. Sunscreen is usually sold in containers larger than the 100ml/3.4oz allowed on planes, so you will need to buy a travel-sized version or decant your own sunscreen into a smaller container.

Sunscreen is considered a medically necessary liquid by the TSA

In 2021, the TSA caused some confusion by stating that larger amounts of sunscreen could be packed in carry-on bags if medically necessary. However, they later corrected this statement, clarifying that liquid sunscreen must adhere to the same regulations as other liquid products.

If you need a larger quantity of sunscreen, you can add it to your checked baggage. The total aggregate quantity per person of restricted medicinal and toiletry articles, including aerosols, cannot exceed 2kg (70 ounces) or 2L (68 fluid ounces). Each container must not be larger than 0.5kg (18 ounces) or 500ml (17 fluid ounces).

It is worth noting that sunscreen face sticks are not considered liquids by the TSA and are allowed in carry-on bags without size limitations.

To avoid any issues, it is recommended to check the TSA website for the most up-to-date information and to follow any instructions provided by the TSA officers at the checkpoint, as they have the final decision on what is allowed.

Sunscreen is available in stick form, which is ideal for travelling

Sunscreen is essential for protecting your skin from harmful UV rays, especially when travelling to sunny destinations. While sunscreen is widely available at most airports, it is often expensive. Buying sunscreen before your trip is a good idea, but it can be challenging to pack within the volume limits set by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA).

Stick sunscreen is a convenient and portable option for travellers. It is easy to apply and can be quickly tossed into your carry-on or pocket. It is also less messy than liquid or aerosol sunscreens, which can leak during air travel.

When choosing sunscreen, opt for mineral-based or zinc oxide formulas, which are reef-safe and environmentally friendly. These sunscreens are recommended for destinations like Hawaii, Palau, and parts of Mexico, which have banned sunscreens containing oxybenzone and octinoxate to protect coral reefs.

You can buy sunscreen at your destination

If you're travelling to a sunny destination, you'll likely need sunscreen to protect your skin. While it is possible to buy sunscreen at the airport, it's usually much more expensive than buying it ahead of time or at your destination. Sunscreen is widely available in most countries, so you shouldn't have trouble finding it once you arrive.

If you're travelling to a tropical location, it's important to pack sunscreen in your luggage. However, if you're running low or forget to pack it, don't worry! You can typically find sunscreen at your destination, saving you from paying high airport prices.

When travelling, it's essential to consider the type of sunscreen you need. Some destinations, like Hawaii, have banned certain types of sunscreen that contain ingredients harmful to coral reefs, such as oxybenzone and octinoxate. Instead, opt for mineral-based sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide as active ingredients. These sunscreens are reef-safe and provide the same quality of protection.

If you're unsure about the availability of sunscreen at your destination, consider contacting your accommodation or a local business for advice. They can provide insight into the availability and cost of sunscreen, helping you make an informed decision.

Remember, it's always better to be prepared and pack sunscreen, especially if you're travelling to a sunny location. However, if you forget or run out, you can likely find sunscreen at your destination without breaking the bank.

Frequently asked questions