If you’re planning a vacation to the beach, island, or other sunny places, don’t forget to bring sunscreen. It will prevent sunburn and protect you against other risks of sun exposure. But if you prefer to pack lightly, you can choose among the best travel size sunscreens out there.
Regardless of the packaging, travel size sunscreens provide the same benefits as their full-size versions. They’ll protect you from intense UV rays in the middle of the day, which in turn reduces the risk of premature aging, wrinkles, or even skin cancer. However, the difference is that it won’t take up much space in your luggage and there’s no risk of being confiscated at the airport.
But with so many options out there, where do you start? To help you out, we’ve put together a list of the 13 best travel size sunscreens. But before we get started, check out some of these helpful tips.
How to Choose Best Travel Size Sunscreens
Carrying large bottles of sunscreen is uncomfortable and prohibited by most airlines. This is exactly why you should opt for a travel size sunscreen. Besides, you can carry it around and re-apply it whenever needed. But since it will directly affect your skin, you should consider allergy, absorption, and side effects before picking one. Other than that, don’t forget about ease of use because you may not have time for a skincare routine during your trip. So, let’s take a look at some of the factors you should consider before choosing the best travel-size sunscreen.
Protection
Wherever you buy a travel size sunscreen, make sure it is labeled ‘broad-spectrum’. This means that the product provides protection not only against UVA rays but also UVB. The former is believed to cause premature aging and skin cancer, while the latter is a cause of sunburn.
Sun protection factor (SPF)
You’ll want a sunscreen with an SPF of more than 30. That’s because the higher the number, the more protection it offers. For example, a sunscreen with SPF 15 will only prevent sunburn but does not reduce the risk of skin cancer or premature aging. So make sure you take this into account before buying.
Ease of Reapplication
Sunscreen is easily rubbed off by water or sweat. For optimal effect, you need to reapply it every two hours. This is why you should choose a sunscreen with compact packaging. That way, it will be easy to grab and reapply at any time. However, if the size does not really matter to you, you could always opt for regular size product, such as Sea and Ski Sunscreen.
Water-Resistant
Yes, you read that right. There’s no best travel size sunscreen out there that’s waterproof or sweat-proof. The best they can do is make sure it lasts long enough when you swim or sweat. So before you buy, check this information on the back of the packaging. This way, you’ll know exactly when to reapply. Most will suggest every two hours, especially during intense activity.
Banana Boat Ultra Sport
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If you’re planning to visit the hardest mountains to climb or do some other intense activity while on vacation, then you definitely need a high-performance sunscreen like Banana Boat Ultra Sport. It offers great resistance to water and sweat, for up to 80 minutes! They also use a fast-absorbing formula, so your skin won’t feel greasy at all. With SPF 50, Banana Boat Ultra Sport promises protection against UVA and UVB. You can stay active all day long, without the risk of sunburn, skin cancer, or premature aging.
What We Love
Sweat and water resistance for up to 80 minutes.
Pros:
- TSA approved size
- Water and sweat resistance
- UVA and UVB protection
- No oxybenzone and octinoxate
Cons:
- Cannot be refilled
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Coppertone SPORT Sunscreen Lotion
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Outdoor activities like camping or hiking are sure to expose your skin to the sun all day long. So make sure you wear a sunscreen with a high SPF, such as Coppertone SPORT Sunscreen Lotion. Its SPF 50 promises 98 percent protection against the most damaging UV rays. They also add moisturizers and Vitamin E to protect your skin from anti-oxidants.
This high-performance lotion is claimed to be resistant to water and sweat for up to 80 minutes. The formula used is also light, allows the skin to breathe, and doesn’t feel sticky. This makes the Coppertone SPORT Sunscreen Lotion a must-have item when camping, in addition to a travel bag with a water bottle holder, trekking pole, and a lightweight rain jacket.
What We Love
Additional Vitamin E and moisturizer to protect skin from anti-oxidants.
Pros:
- SPF 50
- Water and sweat-resistant
- Contains Vitamin E and moisturizer
- 98 percent protection from UV rays
Cons:
- It doesn’t have a long shelf life
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SumBum Original Moisturizing Sunscreen
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If you’re not sure how dangerous sun exposure is, read the following facts carefully. One in five people is at risk of developing skin cancer because of it. However, you can reduce that risk by up to 80 percent using SumBum Original Moisturizing Sunscreen.
This SPF 30 lotion will protect you from 97 percent of UV rays. It’s also free of oxybenzone and octinoxate, making it safe for coral reefs. You can take care of your skin without worrying about potentially damaging the environment.
SumBum Original Moisturizing is also perfect for those who like outdoor activities since it’s resistant to water and sweat. But for maximum protection, you need to reapply every two hours.
What We Love
The clinical formula protects from sun exposure.
Pros:
- SPF 30
- Contains moisturizer and Vitamin E
- Protects against UVA and UVB
- Oxybenzone and Octinoxate free
Cons:
- Do check for allergic reaction before applying completely
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Neutrona Ultra Sheer Non-Greasy Sunscreen Stick (CU)
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Applying sunscreen can be messy sometimes. Luckily you can always pick the one that comes with a stick design. One that we recommend is the Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Non-Greasy Sunscreen Stick. This lotion feels light on the skin and absorbs quickly. It comes with the Helioplex technology formula, which promises broad protection against both UVA and UVB. Unlike most sunscreens, you won’t feel the oily sensation.
Neutrogena also promises that this lotion will not clog pores, since it is PABA-free and non-comedogenic. No need to worry about applying it every two hours for maximum protection.
What We Love
The stick design makes it easier to use when traveling.
Pros:
- SPF 70, offers broad protection against UVA and UVB
- Practical stick design
- Non-comedogenic and PABA free
- Light on the skin and absorbs quickly
Cons:
- It’s not recommended to share with others, since it’s applied directly to the skin
EltaMD UV Sports Sunscreen Lotion
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EltaMD UV Sports Sunscreen Lotion is claimed to be a sunscreen that’s suitable for all skin types. That’s because this product doesn’t contain oil, fragrances, or parabens. They also use formulated zinc oxide, which is said to be safe for even the most sensitive skin.
SPF 50 makes this lotion effective against nearly all UVA and UVB, while its anti-oxidants fight free radicals and infrared radiation. All packaged in an airless pump case for extra efficacy. Among all the best sunscreens, travel size, this one is worth the money.
What We Love
Formulated zinc oxide, making it safe for all skin types.
Pros:
- Water resistance
- Formulated zinc oxide
- SPF 50
- Parabens free
Cons:
- Some may consider this too expensive
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Aveeno Positively Mineral Sensitive Skin
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Using the wrong sunscreen can cause a rash or stinging sensation. So if you have sensitive skin, choose the appropriate product. One that you might want to consider is Aveeno Positively Mineral Sensitive Skin. This SPF 50 lotion is labeled as broad-spectrum. It offers protection against almost all UVA and UVB. It also contains 100% zinc oxide and nourishing oats, making it gentle on sensitive skin.
Those who often have intense activities are also suitable to use this lotion. That’s because the formula has water and sweat resistance for up to 80 minutes. Among the best sunscreens in travel size out there, this one will not disappoint.
What We Love
Reliable sunscreen for sensitive skin.
Pros:
- SPF 50, protects from almost all UVA and UVB
- 100% zinc oxide for sensitive skin
- Resistant to water and sweat
- TSA approved packaging
Cons:
- Thick and doesn’t spread easily
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Beauty by Earth SPF 30 Mineral Sunscreen Stick
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If you’re into something organic, the Beauty by Earth SPF 30 Mineral Sunscreen Stick is probably the right product for you. It claims to use a special formula that makes it safe for everyday use. They also mentioned that this sunscreen contains non-nano zinc oxide. It promises protection against UV radiation, without penetrating the body’s systems.
Most of the best travel-size sunscreens out there often leave a mark. Some even have to be scrubbed for 45 minutes before they disappear. However, Beauty by Earth claims you won’t have this problem with their product. Perfect for summer vacation!
What We Love
Skin-friendly organic sunscreen with UVA and UVB protection.
Pros:
- 30 SPF protection
- Stick design
- Organic skincare products
- Non-nano zinc oxide
Cons:
- Some might consider this too expensive for its size
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Reef Safe Sunscreen SPF 30+
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When it comes to protection for the whole family, most of the best sunscreens in travel size out there aren’t safe for children. Therefore, you need to choose the appropriate product. One that we recommend is Reef Safe Sunscreen SPF30 +. This sunscreen doesn’t contain parabens, silicon, or titanium dioxide. They also use grade A non-nano zinc oxide to make mineral-based products that offer complete UV protection. It’s guaranteed safe for all ages, including children. A must-have when traveling with family!
As its name implies, Reef Safe Sunscreen is also environmentally friendly. You won’t find oxybenzone, octinoxate, or other substances that are harmful to coral reefs in it.
What We Love
Sunscreen that’s safe for children and environmentally friendly.
Pros:
- SPF 30+
- Safe for children and the environment
- Doesn’t leave white stains
- Natural formula
Cons:
- Some may find it too thick
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Alba Botanica Soothing Sunscreen
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Sensitive skin requires a special formula and that’s why Alba Botanica Soothing Sunscreen comes with 100% natural ingredients. It doesn’t contain parabens, gluten, oxybenzone, or octinoxate. Apart from protecting against UVA and UVB, this SPF 45 lotion also contains green tea and vitamin E. Both are powerful anti-oxidants and nourish the skin. It smells nice and light, thanks to pure lavender.
Alba Botanica is a brand that really cares about protecting the environment. That’s why you’ll see the Leaping Rabbit symbol on this product, which indicates it’s made without animal testing or violence. They also make sure all products are biodegradable, making them safe for coral reefs.
What We Love
Comes with 100% natural ingredients, making it one of the best sunscreens out there.
Pros:
- SPF 45, broad spectrum
- Water-resistant
- Biodegradable
- Contains grape seed, green tea, and Vitamin E for antioxidant protection
Cons:
- Some report that it can attract bees
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CeraVe Hydrating Sunscreen
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CeraVe Hydrating Sunscreen is a mineral-based product that offers 100% UV protection. It should reflect both UVA and UVB easily. They also use an essential ceramide formula to ‘lock-in’ moisture and protect the skin layers.
Those with allergies don’t need to worry, because CeraVe has tested this product thoroughly. They use non-comedogenic ingredients to reduce the risk of irritation, especially in children. Furthermore, its also free of oxybenzone, oil, parabens, and fragrances, which makes it safe for reefs.
What We Love
Essential ceramides keep skin moisturized throughout the day.
Pros:
- Broad-spectrum UV protection
- Essential ceramides formula
- Free of parabens, oxybenzone, and oil
- Suitable for sensitive skin
Cons:
- It may leave white marks on darker skin tones
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Supergoop Unseen Sunscreen
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How many times have you used sunscreen and it left stains or marks? Well, Supergoop Unseen Sunscreen won’t let you have that problem. As the name suggests, it doesn’t leave anything behind. Completely invisible!
Rated SPF 40, this product offers total protection against UVA, UVB, blue light, and IRA. The formula feels light, suitable for all skins. Moreover, Supergoop doesn’t use additional oils or fragrance. Among all the best sunscreens in travel size out there, this is the only one advertised as ‘beard friendly’! Let’s not dwell on what that really means. The only thing we need to know is that Supergoop claims this product to be suitable for both men and women.
What We Love
A special formula that promises to leave no stain.
Pros:
- Does not leave stains
- Light formula
- Protects against UVA, UVB, blue light, and IRA
- Suitable for men
- Oil-free
Cons:
- A bit pricey
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Blue Lizard Australian Sunscreen
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While protecting your skin from sun exposure is important, you need to know that many of the best travel size sunscreens out there come with harmful chemicals. Therefore, try to be more selective. Go for a product that is truly trusted, like the Blue Lizard Australian Sunscreen.
This SPF 30+ lotion is claimed to not use active chemicals at all. Its zinc oxide provides broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB. And if you’re wondering whether this sunscreen is reef safe, it’s completely free of oxybenzone and octinoxate.
Strolling around Barcelona or Ibiza can be very hot. But you’ll surely be pleased to know that the Blue Lizard Australian Sunscreen is water and sweat resistant. Just make sure to reapply every 40 minutes.
What We Love
Sunscreen with zero active chemical content.
Pros:
- Oxybenzone and Octinoxate free, reef-friendly
- Zero active chemical content
- Broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB
- Parabens and fragrance-free
- Water-resistant
Cons:
- It’s thick and quite difficult to spread
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COOLA Classic Face Sunscreen
1
This fragrance-free sunscreen comes with SPF 50 broad-spectrum protection. It should protect you from both UVA and UVB, while also hydrating your skin. The formula has rich anti-oxidants and feels gentle on the skin.
For those who frequently do outdoor activities or travel, COOLA Classic Face Sunscreen is the best option. It’s resistant to water and sweat for up to 80 minutes. Not only that, but the packaging is also TSA approved, making it travel-friendly. It’s safe to say that this is our best sunscreen, travel size.
What We Love
Fragrance-free and feels gentle on the skin
Pros:
- Organic sunscreen
- SPF 50 broad spectrum protection against UVA and UVB
- Water-resistant
- Fragrance-free
Cons:
- Some of you may find it greasy
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