Are you traveling to a sunny destination in the near future? If so, then sunscreen is a must. However, if you prefer spray sunscreen (rather than a lotion), you might be wondering: Can you bring spray sunscreen on a plane? The short answer is yes. However, there are some distinct rules you will still need to know about if you want to avoid having to leave things behind at airport security.
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA for short) has very specific guidelines regarding carrying liquids and aerosols. So, if you want to avoid having to leave items behind, understanding these rules will help you pack properly and get through with no fuss. Hereβs what you need to know.
Can You Bring Spray Sunscreen On A Plane? Yes, When You Follow the 3-1-1 Rule
Ok, so the answer to – Can You Bring Spray Sunscreen On A Plane? – is affirmative, but the product must follow the TSAβs 3-1-1 rule on liquids. This rule breaks down like this:
- Each liquid or aerosol container must be 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or smaller.
- All liquid items must fit inside one quart-sized, clear, resealable bag.
- Each passenger is allowed only one quart-sized bag.
Since the majority of the best spray sunscreen bottles are around 5 ounces, they wonβt be allowed in with your carry-on luggage unless you buy a travel-sized version. This is a reason why many people also travel with a stick sunscreen, so theyβve always got protection handy.
Why Are There Restrictions on Spray Sunscreen?
You might be wondering why thereβs so much fuss on flights around spray sunscreens. Well, they often contain aerosols and pressurized gases, which can pose a safety risk. In checked luggage, pressure changes could cause leaks or create a fire hazard. On top of that, theyβre a liquid, and TSA has super-tight rules on those. Itβs just a fact of life in the 21st century.
So, if you want your next trip away to be a pleasant one without hassle at the airport, here are a few tips on what you can do to ensure that happens.
- Pack any larger bottles of sunscreen you have in your checked luggage if they exceed the carry-on size limit.
- Make sure your spray sunscreen has a secure cap to prevent leaks in your suitcase.
- Take a TSA-approved 3 oz mineral sunscreen lotion, as youβll need protection during the flight, especially if you have a window seat.
- Check the expiration date before packing since sunscreen does go out of date, and you donβt want to rely on something that wonβt fully protect you.
Can You Bring Spray Sunscreen On A Plane? Yes, Butβ¦
So, there you have the definitive answer – yes, you can take your sunscreen spray on the plane with you, but it must be 3.4 ounces or smaller. If you want to take a larger bottle on your trip, it will need to go into your luggage, and it should be wrapped in a clear plastic bag to prevent messes.
By planning ahead and packing wisely, you can protect your skin from the sun without any hassle at airport security.