Can You Bring Spray Sunscreen on a Plane?

Traveling by air can be a thrilling experience, but figuring out what you can and cannot bring on a plane can sometimes be a puzzle. You might be wondering, "Can you bring spray sunscreen on a plane?"

With quality travel-size sunscreen spray products available, you want to make sure you don’t get your favorite sunscreen confiscated by the TSA. Let’s navigate the rules to ensure you stay protected under the sun during your travels.

TSA Rules for Spray Sunscreen on Planes

Will the TSA let your travel-size sun spray through security? The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has specific rules regarding liquids, aerosols, and gels in carry-on luggage. Sunscreen, whether in lotion, gel, stick, or spray form, falls under these regulations. According to the TSA, any liquid, gel, or aerosol must be in a container of 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less¹ and must fit inside a quart-sized, clear plastic bag².

So, travel-size sunscreen is okay to take on an airplane as long as it follows these rules. As an additional guideline, the lid must be secure so that there’s no chance of the spray accidentally discharging.

Types of Sunscreen Allowed in Carry-On and Checked Luggage

What type of sunscreen can you take on a plane?

• Lotions and Gels: These can be packed in your carry-on, following the 3.4-ounce rule, or in larger quantities in your checked baggage. The good news is that many of your favorite COOLA products come in 3.4-ounce packs, including the hydrating body glow sunscreen.
• Sticks: Solid sunscreen sticks are not subject to the liquids rule and can be packed in your carry-on with no size limitation.
• Sprays: All sprays are liquids, so ensure larger bottles go in your checked luggage.
• Serums: If an SPF serum is part of your skincare and sun protection regimen, you must make sure that only travel-size bottles go in your carry-on bag.

Anything that is a liquid or could become a liquid, like gels or waxes, is subject to these rules, so don’t get caught off guard.

How to Pack Spray Sunscreen for Air Travel

When it comes to spray sunscreen, airplane carry-on rules apply. Mixing up your TSA-approved, travel-size sunscreen spray with your larger bottles could cause major delays at the airport. Here are some tips for packing efficiently:

• Use Travel-Sized Containers: Purchase travel-sized versions of your favorite sunscreens or transfer your spray sunscreen into smaller containers.
• Label Your TSA-Okay Bottles: Once you’ve checked that you can take your spray sunscreen on a plane, label it as TSA-approved so you don’t get it muddled with a slightly larger bottle.
• Seal and Protect: Ensure that the spray nozzle is secure and consider using a plastic bag to prevent accidental activation during your trip.
• Take a Backup: Ultimately, the TSA agent you’re dealing with has the final say on what you can take on the plane. Pack some sunscreen wipes or make sure you’ve got spare lotion in your checked luggage, just in case they decide to confiscate your travel-size sun spray.

COOLA has a handy travel sunscreen section to help you pick sunscreen formats that are already TSA-approved.

Tips for Packing Sunscreen in Checked Luggage

For those who need larger quantities of sunscreen, checked luggage is your best bet. Here’s how to pack your sunscreen safely:

• Check Aerosol Limits: While larger quantities are allowed in checked baggage, airlines often have limits on the total volume of aerosols. Check with your airline for specifics.
• Protect Against Leaks: Use plastic bags or wrap your sunscreen bottles in clothing to protect your other items from potential leaks.
• Avoid Dangerous Goods: Ensure your sunscreen doesn’t fall under any restricted categories like flammable aerosols, which might be subject to additional regulations.

Understanding Special Considerations for Aerosol Sunscreens

Aerosol sunscreens come with their own set of concerns, primarily because they are considered flammable and must be handled with care. Flammability is a significant safety issue, so it’s essential to always check the label and follow airline guidelines to avoid carrying prohibited items. To simplify your travel experience, consider non-aerosol formats like sunscreen lotions or sticks, which are less restricted and easier to pack.

Navigating Sunscreen Regulations at Various Destinations

Some destinations have regulations around sunscreen ingredients to help protect marine ecosystems. For instance, Hawaii’s Act 104 prohibits the sale of sunscreens containing Oxybenzone and Octinoxate, which are believed to contribute to coral reef damage. If you're visiting Hawaii, it’s best to bring a reef-friendly sunscreen that meets local guidelines.

In places like Mexico, there’s no federal ban³, but certain marine parks and eco-reserves may require or recommend biodegradable or reef-safe sunscreens. Be sure to check the rules for your specific destination to stay informed and avoid any surprises.

Best Practices for Using Sunscreen During Air Travel

Sunscreen is essential, even during your flight. Here’s why and how to stay protected:

• Apply Before Flying: Apply sunscreen before boarding, especially if you have a window seat where UV rays can penetrate.
• Reapply During Long Flights: If you're wondering how often you should reapply sunscreen on a long flight, remember to do so regularly to maintain protection. Keep a small, travel-sized sunscreen bottle in your hand luggage for easy access, and set a reminder on your phone to reapply every two hours.

Ensuring Comprehensive Travel Preparation

Before you head out, make sure you’re fully prepared:

• Final Packing Tips: To ensure you’ve got everything you need for a sun-safe trip, follow these travel packing tips. Pack travel-sized sunscreen bottles in your hand luggage for easy access, use resealable plastic bags to prevent spills, and consider bringing a hat and sunglasses for added protection.
• Double-Check Your Bags: Confirm that all your toiletries, including sunscreen, meet TSA regulations to avoid delays.

FAQs: Spray Sunscreen on a Plane

Can you take spray sunscreen on a plane?

Yes, as long as you follow TSA guidelines. All liquids, including sprays, should be in containers of 3.4 ounces or smaller.

What size spray sunscreen can I fly with?

The maximum size is 3.4 ounces or 100 ml.

Is sunscreen spray allowed in checked bags?

Yes, there are no limits on liquids in your checked luggage.

Are sprays allowed on long-haul flights?

The same TSA rules regarding liquids, including sprays, apply to both short-haul and long-haul flights.

Easy Steps to Bring Spray Sunscreen on a Plane

By following TSA guidelines, packing smartly, and choosing travel-friendly formats like COOLA's conveniently sized sunscreen sprays, you can ensure your sun protection routine stays intact wherever you go. Stay sun-safe and enjoy your travels!

Sources:

1. Transportation Security Administration. "What Can I Bring? Sunscreen." TSA, 2025,https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/whatcanibring/items/sunscreen
2. Transportation Security Administration. “Liquids, Aerosols, and Gels Rule.” TSA, 2025. https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/liquids-aerosols-gels-rule
3. Lundqvist, C., & von Goetz, N. (2021). Sunscreens as a source of environmental pollution: A review. Environmental Sciences Europe, 33(1), 103. https://enveurope.springeropen.com/articles/10.1186/s12302-021-00515-w