Sunscreen is an essential product to keep on hand at all times, even on the plane or when getting off a flight before leaving the airport. Sunscreen is a product that needs to be reapplied regularly, but that can’t be done if a person doesn’t have it on them. So, can you bring sunscreen on a plane?
Sunscreen is allowed in a carry-on if it is 3.4 oz, 100 ml, or less. It should be placed in a 1-quart-sized clear Ziplock bag with other toiletry items to pass through TSA. In checked luggage, sunscreen is allowed in full-sized containers. Decant sunscreen into travel-size containers for TSA eligibility.
Related:
– Can You Bring Aerosol through TSA?
– Can You Bring Lotion through TSA?
Is Sunscreen Lotion Allowed On A Plane?
Sunscreen lotion is most definitely allowed on a plane. Passengers can carry any type and brand of sunscreen in their luggage, but there are essential requirements. Sunscreen can be packed in checked baggage and hand luggage, but for carry-on bags, it should follow the TSA guidelines of the 3-1-1 rule.
The 3-1-1 rule refers to items being equal to or less than 3.4 ounces, or 100ml, and placed in a 1-quart clear plastic Ziplock bag that is resealable. The sunscreen lotion should not exceed these requirements if you carry it in your hand luggage or purse on the plane.
If the quantity of your sunscreen lotion exceeds the TSA requirements, you will have to remove it at security control. Your sunscreen lotion will probably be confiscated, and unless you have a small container to decant it in, you will probably lose your entire bottle of sunscreen.
Can You Carry Sunscreen In Checked Luggage?
As mentioned, passengers can carry sunscreen in checked luggage bags. It is an excellent option to pack an entire bottle of sunscreen in your checked bag for use at your destination, especially if you will be in the sun a lot. Sun protection cream is essential; you don’t want to leave it out.
Full bottles or containers of liquid, creams, etc., are allowed in checked luggage, so if your sun cream exceeds 3.4 ounces or 100ml, you will still be allowed to take it. You can take more than one full bottle of sunscreen in your checked luggage if needed.
Is Sunscreen Spray Allowed In Carry-On Bags?
Passengers are allowed to carry sunscreen spray in carry-on bags. Some people prefer the spray instead of lotions and creams, and they are safe to take as long as you follow the TSA 3-1-1 rule for the quantity.
That means your sunscreen spray should not exceed 3.4oz or 100ml in quantity. If it does, it will be confiscated by security control. Most supermarkets, drugs, and skincare product stores sell travel-size sunscreen sprays in lotions and sprays.
If you can buy your sunscreen in a travel size, it would be ideal for traveling. If you cannot find a travel size, simply decant some in a travel-size container. It probably will not function as a spray anymore, but you can use it as a cream or lotion. It is all about being efficient.
Remember that if you want to apply sunscreen spray on the flight, it is best to do it in the lavatory. If you do it at your seat, ensure it does not spray on anyone else or make a mess on the plane.
Is Aerosol Sunscreen Allowed In Carry On Luggage?
Similar to the sunscreen spray concept, aerosol sunscreen is also allowed in hand luggage if the quantity equals or is less than 3.4oz/100ml. Anything above that amount will not be allowed to pass through airport security and will be confiscated.
Another vital point to note is that aerosol sunscreen cans are highly flammable. They contain a specific amount of alcohol. It is best not to apply it on your skin, but avoiding taking it on travels is also recommended. It is not recommended to use aerosol sunscreen on the plane.
Aerosol sunscreens are best kept at home in a cool, safe place, preferably away from cars and planes where temperature and altitude could create a dangerous situation.
How To Carry Sunscreen On The Plane?
If you want to know the best way to pack sunscreen for the plane on your next trip, follow these handy tips:
- In checked luggage, wrap the sunscreen bottles in plastic to avoid pressure spills on your other items.
- Put tape over the lids or caps of your sunscreen to prevent it from opening up during the flight.
- If your sunscreen fits the TSA requirements, ensure the cap is tightened correctly before packing in your quart-sized plastic.
- Decant the sunscreen lotions into a travel-sized container and close it tightly before placing them in the quart-sized plastic bag.
- Always ensure your Ziplock bag is sealed well in case of any spills from the inner contents.
- The best option is to tape the caps closed unless you need to use sunscreen often during the flight and at the airport.
- For sunscreen sprays and aerosols, ensure the top cap covers the nozzle properly and is packed in your bag so that it will open or fall off. That could create a huge mess and be a safety hazard.
Do All Flights Allow Sunscreen On The Plane?
Whether you fly to Europe, Australia, Canada, within the states, or somewhere like Africa, or Asia, most flights will allow you to pack sunscreen. Sunscreen falls under the list of toiletries permitted on a plane. Most people almost always carry sunscreen because it is vital for sun protection.
Airlines will not have an issue with passengers carrying sunscreen on the plane, whether a lotion or spray, as long as the TSA guidelines are followed. In checked luggage, the size and amount don’t matter much, but it is always best to check with your airline to be safe.
In carry-on bags, your sunscreen should be equal to or less than 3.4 oz or 100 ml and placed in a resealable, clear, plastic, 1-quart Ziplock bag. That way, it will easily pass through airport security without issues.
