On a recent Caribbean vacation, I ran out of sunscreen and had to spend $35 at the gift shop for a brand I didn’t love. To make matters worse, the bottle was too large to pack in my carry-on (TSA only allows liquids of 3.4 ounces or less, and yes, sunscreen counts as a liquid), so it didn’t even make it home with me. After that incident, I was determined to find the best travel-size sunscreen on the market. Beyond being TSA-approved, I looked for sunscreen that is reef-safe and formulated with skincare in mind (as I age, I pay more and more attention to the ingredients I’m putting on my skin.)
When I’m not spending summers by the lake in my home state of Maine, I’m usually traveling to warmer climates like Spain, Morocco, and the Caribbean. But, as we’ve all learned by now, sunscreen is always important—even in cooler climates and colder seasons. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, 80% of UV rays penetrate clouds. So, wherever you’re headed this summer, make sure you have some SPF on hand that will protect your skin on long days of fun in the sun.
Below, I gathered 10 travel-size sunscreens worth packing on your next trip, whether you need a water-resistant lotion for the pool or a tinted moisturizer that doubles as your vacation makeup. My favorites are easy to apply and effective at providing sun protection—and they’re completely TSA-approved.
In this article:
Top picks:
Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection Face Shield SPF 50
Dermatone
Sport sunscreen lotion
Size: 3 oz.
SPF: 50
Formula: Chemical
Water resistance: 80 minutes
This is my go-to sunscreen for kids. Dermatone Sport SPF 50 is a water-resistant sunscreen that holds up to long days in and out of the water with no complaints of stingy eyes. The compact tube easily slips into a carry-on, while broad-spectrum protection helps shield skin from UVA and UVB rays. The lightweight formula makes it easy to reapply and I love that it has aloe and Vitamins C and E built into the sunscreen.
Colorescience
Sunforgettable Total Protection Face Shield SPF 50
Size: 1.8 oz.
SPF: 50
Formula: Mineral
Water resistance: 40 minutes
Before trying Colorescience’s best-selling formula, Supergoop’s Glow Screen was my favorite tinted sunscreen. The Sunforgettable Face Shield delivers broad-spectrum mineral protection in a lightweight formula, all while offering more coverage than other tinted moisturizers I’ve used in the past. Available in six shades, it helps even skin tone while protecting against UVA/UVB rays, blue light, pollution, and infrared radiation. I’m all about streamlining my skincare routine and with this one product, I eliminated foundation and added sunscreen.
Summer Fridays
ShadeDrops mineral milk sunscreen
Size: 1.7 oz.
SPF: 50
Formula: Mineral
Water resistance: 80 minutes
This mineral sunscreen with SPF 50 from Summer Fridays is a favorite of commerce editor Meaghan Kenny’s. As the name suggests, it has a weightless, milky formula that blends into the skin seamlessly without leaving behind a white cast. “It’s lightweight enough for everyday wear and doesn’t feel greasy at all,” says Kenny. “I can even layer it underneath makeup without worrying about pilling. It’s my go-to at home and when I’m traveling, thanks to its tiny size that fits right in my makeup bag.”
Badger
Adventure mineral sunscreen cream
Size: 2.9 oz.
SPF: 50
Formula: Mineral
Water resistance: 80 minutes
For travelers seeking a reef-friendly sunscreen with a simple, clean ingredient list, the Badger Adventure mineral sunscreen is a standout. Made with non-nano zinc oxide and nourishing organic ingredients, this water-resistant formula is particularly well-suited for beach vacations, snorkeling excursions, and active outdoor adventures. While slightly thicker than some modern mineral formulas, it still goes on without leaving a white cast.
Riversol
Daily Glow mineral sunscreen
Size: 1.7 oz.
SPF: 50
Formula: Mineral
Water resistance: 40 minutes
As I get older, and especially in the summer, I skip foundation completely and lean on a tinted moisturizer. I’ve tried at least a dozen and have narrowed down my favorites to three. One of those is Riversol Daily Glow mineral sunscreen, blending sun protection with skincare benefits, and making me fall more in love with my minimalist beauty routine. The lightweight mineral formula delivers broad-spectrum sun protection while imparting a subtle radiance that leaves skin looking healthy and refreshed. Hydrating ingredients help combat the dryness that can come with long travel days and changing climates.
Live Tinted
Hueguard 3-in-1 mineral sunscreen
Size: 1.7 oz.
SPF: 30
Formula: Mineral
Water resistance: 80 minutes
Live Tinted has developed a loyal following thanks to its ability to provide mineral sun protection without leaving behind the chalky white cast often associated with zinc-based sunscreen. One of the main reasons I recommend the Live Tinted Hueguard is its three-in-one formula. Not only is it a sunscreen, it’s also a moisturizer and primer. I was skeptical that a mineral sunscreen could be layered with makeup, but I can see this one being a big hit for destination weddings or an alfresco brunch date.
Size: 2.3 oz.
SPF: 30
Formula: Mineral
Water resistance: 80 minutes
Zouck’s aptly named Screen Screen feels more like a skincare product than a traditional sunscreen. The mineral formula relies on zinc oxide for broad-spectrum protection and is enriched with hydrating and antioxidant-rich ingredients, including snow mushroom, vitamin E, green tea extract, rice extract, and cocoa seed butter. I especially like it for city travel and sightseeing days when my skin tends to become dehydrated from flights, changing climates, and long hours spent outdoors.
Supergoop
Unseen sunscreen stick
Size: 0.7 oz.
SPF: 40
Formula: Chemical
Water resistance: 80 minutes
Supergoop is a go-to sunscreen brand for several Traveler editors. I’ve tried a variety of Supergoop formulas over the years and have loved them all. While the tinted Glow Screen has been a mainstay for me, I’ve also grown fond of the Unseen sunscreen stick. I love the hands-free, easy-to-use swipe of the stick. It’s a weightless formula that disappears into skin without leaving any residue. I’ve come to learn that a lot of sunscreen sticks leave behind a shine, which is great if your skin is on the dry side. But since summer skin is typically more hydrated, this no-show finish (I wouldn’t quite call it matte) is a welcome addition to my toiletry bag. For those who tend to burn more easily, this stick is an efficient way to add another layer of protection to the nose, cheekbones, and shoulders.
Naked Sundays
Hydrating Glow Mist setting spray
Size: 2.5 oz.
SPF: 50
Formula: Chemical
Water resistance: 80 minutes
For travelers who wear makeup but still want to stay diligent about sun protection, Naked Sundays’ Hydrating Glow Mist setting spray solves one of sunscreen’s biggest challenges: reapplication. The ultra-fine mist can be sprayed over makeup throughout the day without smudging or disrupting your look, making it ideal for sightseeing, beach walks, and long afternoons spent outdoors. Infused with Pentavitin, a plant-derived hydrator known for its moisture-retaining properties, the formula leaves skin feeling refreshed while imparting a subtle glow.
Vacation
Vacation Shimmer Oil
Size: 2.9 oz.
SPF: 30
Formula: Chemical
Water resistance: 80 minutes
Vacation Shimmer Oil with SPF 30 combines broad-spectrum protection with a glimmering, sun-kissed glow, making it a nice choice for tropical vacations and poolside afternoons. The lightweight formula leaves skin looking luminous without feeling heavy, while the brand’s nostalgic beach-inspired scent enhances the vacation experience. Though not intended for intense outdoor activities, it’s a fun option for travelers who want sun protection with a touch of glamour.
FAQ:
What size sunscreen is allowed on the plane?
Travelers can bring liquids up to 3.4 ounces in their carry-on. Liquids must fit in a clear, quart-sized resealable bag. Anything larger than 3.4 ounces must be tucked away in a checked bag. Important to note: Even if you have a full-size bottle of sunscreen with less than 3.4 ounces remaining in the tube, you will have to pack it in a checked bag—or you risk it being thrown away.
Can I bring sunscreen spray on the plane?
Yes, aerosol sunscreen is considered a liquid, so as long as it meets the 3.4-ounce guideline, it is allowed on the plane. Pack your favorite sunscreen spray inside a toiletry bag or Ziploc bag to protect your belongings from any accidental spills. It’s also a good idea to tape your sunscreen spray to avoid it from accidentally misting in your bag.
What should I look for in the best sunscreen?
Look for SPF 30 or higher, and sunscreens that offer broad-spectrum coverage and water-resistance.
How do I know if my sunscreen is reef-safe?
Check the label to see if your sunscreen is listed as reef-safe. Travelers wanting a reef-safe sunscreen should also consider mineral formulas that contain zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. Try to avoid the ingredients oxybenzone and octinoxat as they are both toxic to marine life.
