Bringing Sunscreen on a Plane – TSA Rules & Guidelines

Traveling by plane is an exciting adventure, but it also has its fair share of rules and regulations, especially regarding what you can and cannot bring in your luggage. Sunscreen is a regular thing that often makes people wonder. Can you bring sunscreen on a plane? What about sunscreen that you spray or that you spritz? Also, does the TSA think of sunscreen as a liquid? This complete guide will answer all your questions and give you useful tips on keeping your skin safe while flying.

Can You Bring Sunscreen on a Plane?

Travelers often want to know if they can bring sunscreen on the plane. Thankfully, the answer is a resounding yes. Sunscreen is not included in the Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) list of prohibited items. This means you can have trusty sun protection right at your side during your air travel adventures. However, it’s more complex than tossing it into your bag and heading to the airport. Guidelines are in place to ensure your journey remains smooth and hassle-free.

Can you spray sunscreen on a plane?

For travelers seeking the utmost convenience and efficiency in sun protection, spray sunscreen is often the go-to choice. The fine mist makes it easy to apply evenly and dries quickly, making it ideal for those on the move. If you want to know if you can bring spray sunscreen on a plane, the fantastic news is that you can.

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) knows that people must protect themselves from the sun while flying, so they let you bring travel-sized spray sunscreen. This means you can shield your skin from the sun’s rays during your journey without hassle. However, as with other liquids and gels, there’s a critical detail to remember.

How about aerosol sunscreen? Can you bring aerosol sunscreen on a plane? Aerosol sunscreen, akin to its spray sunscreen counterpart, offers a quick and convenient way to apply sun protection. It’s a go-to choice for many travelers, allowing for even coverage and a hassle-free application. The good news is that aerosol sunscreen is typically allowed when planning a plane journey, meaning you can safeguard your skin against harmful UV rays while in transit. However, similar to spray sunscreen, the crucial factor determining whether you can carry aerosol sunscreen on the plane relates to the size of the container.

How to Pack Sunscreen in Checked Luggage

If you prefer to carry a larger container of sunscreen or have other items that you can’t fit into your carry-on due to the liquid restrictions, packing sunscreen in your checked luggage is a viable option. Put the sunscreen in a plastic bag or container that you can seal to keep it from leaking. This extra layer of protection can save you from the headache of dealing with sunscreen-soaked clothing or other items upon arrival.

Let us discuss the best ways to pack sunscreen in your checked luggage. Sunscreen, especially in a larger container, can be prone to leaking, which can be messy and potentially damage your other belongings. Follow these steps to make sure you don’t do this when you pack sunscreen in your checked bags:

• Choose the right container: Opt for a high-quality, leak-proof container specifically designed for travel. Look for travel-sized bottles or tubes with secure caps engineered to prevent leaks during air travel.
• Use Sealable Bags: Double up on protection by placing your sunscreen container in a sealable plastic bag. This secondary layer of containment ensures that even if a leak occurs, it will be confined within the bag, preventing it from affecting the rest of your luggage
• Keep it Upright: When packing your checked luggage, ensure your sunscreen container is upright. This practice significantly reduces the risk of leakage, as changes in cabin pressure during the flight can sometimes cause liquids, including sunscreen, to escape their containers if they’re not tightly sealed.
• Pack It Securely: Prevent your sunscreen container from moving around excessively by packing it securely within your luggage. Use clothing, rolled-up towels, or other soft items to cushion it. This keeps your sunscreen snug and minimizes the risk of jostling during transit, which could lead to leakage. These precautions ensure that your sunscreen remains intact and your belongings are safe from any sunscreen-related mishaps. Whether heading for a tropical vacation or a business trip, these practices will help you keep your sun protection effective and your journey stress-free.

TSA Classification: Understanding the Sunscreen Conundrum

Is sunscreen considered liquid in TSA? The distinction between what falls under the TSA’s definition of liquids and gels often raises questions, particularly regarding essential items like sunscreen. Despite popular belief, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) does not consider sunscreen a liquid. Instead, it falls under the category of gels, alongside familiar items such as toothpaste, hair gel, and lotion. Understanding this categorization is key to ensuring a smooth airport security experience.

When packing sunscreen in your carry-on, you must know the restrictions and regulations. Regarding liquids and gels, the TSA uses the 3-1-1 rule. This rule applies to sunscreen packaging. This rule dictates that containers carrying liquids and gels in your carry-on luggage must adhere to a size limit of 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less. For security reasons, these packages should also be put in a clear, resealable plastic bag the size of a quart. By being attentive to these requirements, you can easily navigate airport security, knowing that your sun protection is intact and your journey is hassle-free. Whether you’re headed to a sunny vacation destination or a critical business meeting, sunscreen’s classification as a gel by the TSA ensures that you can always keep your skin protected without any travel-related concerns.

Can You Bring Sunscreen on a Plane? Know the rules!

You can bring sunscreen in the form of lotion, spray, or mist on a plane. Remember to check the package size and follow the TSA’s rules to ensure your airport security goes smoothly. Sunscreen is essential, especially if you’re heading to a sunny destination, so there’s no need to leave it behind.
Traveling should be a stress-free experience, and now you know that you can protect your skin from the sun’s rays without any airport hassles. So, pack your sunscreen, follow the rules, and enjoy your journey peacefully.

With these tips, you can feel good about getting ready for your trip and protecting your face from UV rays. Traveling by plane can be an adventure; with the right sun protection, you can have a comfortable and enjoyable journey.