The Best Travel Size Sunscreens for Water Activities and Beach Vacations

We've all been told about the importance of wearing sunscreen, but did you know wearing 15+ SPF every day can reduce your chances of getting skin cancer by 40% and 50%?

Wearing sunscreen daily is key, but when you're traveling, it can be hard to find the perfect travel-sized option. There are so many brands and products, it's challenging to know which ones are worth the money.

You may also be having trouble finding a TSA-approved sunscreen that is high quality.

Well, you've come to the right place. We've put this guide together so you don't have to wonder which travel-size sunscreen you should bring on your trip with you. Continue reading for all the information you need!

Shiseido Anessa Perfect UV Sunscreen

This travel-size sunscreen is a great option no matter what type of vacation you're going on. It's 50 SPF and will protect your skin from both UVA and UVB rays.

It's waterproof and sweat resistant, making it perfect if you're planning on spending a lot of time in the water or doing outdoor activities. You will get maximum protection if you reapply every two hours. It's also recommended that you wait 15 to 20 minutes before sun exposure after application.

This sunscreen is very lightweight, which is one of the reasons it's so popular. It also blends well, so there won't be any residue left behind.

A little goes a long way, but it does come in a fairly small bottle and likely won't last you more than a few weeks if you're applying it every day.

This product contains hyaluronic acid, which is hydrating for your skin, making it a great option for everyday use.

It comes in two different sizes, 60mL and 90mL, which are both TSA-approved amounts. You'll be able to breeze through airport security with this product.

Biore Aqua Rich Watery Gel SPF

Another sunscreen option that is great for your body and face is the Aqua Rich watery gel by Biore. It’s SPF 50, and it’s also water and sweat resistant.

It has a unique texture that is light and absorbs rapidly into the skin.

This sunscreen is also an affordable option and comes in a TSA-approved size.

You should apply this to your face and body around 30 minutes before any sun exposure. It should be the last product you apply. If you were going to be spending more than a couple of hours in the sun, be sure to reapply as well.

Dr. G's Green Mild-Up Sun+

A lot of sunscreens feel thick and greasy after you apply them. However, this option by Dr. G is very lightweight and won’t make your skin feel clogged.

It was created specifically to protect against UVA and UVB radiation.

If you have sensitive skin, you don’t have to worry about this product irritating or making your skin break out. It is a mild formula that is great for all skin types.

It contains several natural ingredients, including green tea extract, which will help soothe your skin while also hydrating it.

Similar to the other options we've discussed, you should apply this before going out into the sun and reapply regularly. If you’re swimming or sweating, be sure to reapply immediately after.

You don’t have to worry about being stopped going through airport security with this product, either. It’s 50 mL which is approved by TSA.

Elta MD UV Clear

You may have seen this brand recently. It’s becoming very popular and for a good reason.

Elta MD has several sunscreens available for you to purchase. However, we are going to talk about the Elta MD UV clear, specifically today.

It contains zinc oxide, which protects against a number of different harmful rays. It also prevents your skin from tanning.

Along with protective ingredients, it also contains vitamin B3, which is great for your skin. It doesn't contain any Paraben preservatives, which many other products do.

You can use this product and have peace of mind that you're not going to get stopped in the security line, and your skin is protected.

COSRX Aloe Soothing Sun Cream

If you’re looking to purchase sunscreen that is soothing, affordable, and lightweight, this is the product for you. It will give your skin a dewy finish without making it look or feel greasy.

Your skin will be hydrated and moisturized even after spending hours in the sun and water. This is due to the aloe leaf extract that is in the formula. This product is also the least expensive on our list.

IsNtree Hyaluronic Acid Airy Sun Stick

IsNtree has created a Hyaluronic Acid Airy Sun Stick that is perfect for everyday use and traveling.

It’s very easy to apply it was created to make it easier for you to cover the hard-to-reach areas. It has seaweed and aloe vera extract in yam root extract, which helps hydrate and soothe the skin.

Many sunscreen sticks feel thick on the skin; however, this option doesn't. It will feel light and airy and it won’t leave your pores clogged.

It’s a great option if you have a lot of outdoor activities on your agenda. This sunscreen is going to be the easiest to apply. All you have to do is take the cap off and rub it across your face. It’s also suitable for your body.

What To Look For

When you’re looking for a high-quality sunscreen to purchase, there are a few things you need to be on the lookout for. Not all sunscreen products are created equally, so it’s important that you do your research.

The sunscreen that you use should offer broad-spectrum protection. This simply means it protects against both UVA and UVB rays.

UVA rays cause sun damage in premature aging. UVB rays cause skin cancer in sunburns.

The SPF stands for sun protection factor, should be 30 or higher. This is especially true if you’re spending a lot of time in the water or outside.

It’s important to keep in mind that no sunscreen can provide 100% protection. Avoiding peak sun hours, wearing protective clothing, and spending time in the shade is also recommended.

Another factor to consider when you’re picking out sunscreen for your vacation is if it’s water resistant. Your sunscreen isn’t going to protect you if it comes off immediately when you get into the water.

You should also consider your skin type when you’re picking out sunscreen. Everyone has different skin concerns and the last thing you want is your sunscreen to make your face break out.

The sunscreen product that you use should be fragrance-free and if you have sensitive skin, you may want to opt for a hypoallergenic option. If you have oily skin a lightweight and non-greasy formula will be best.

Lastly, you should look at the ingredients to ensure they are safe and effective. Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are mineral-based ingredients that are safe for your skin and provide protection.

Sunscreens that contain oxybenzone and octinoxate should be avoided whenever possible. These ingredients are harmful to sea life and they aren’t recommended for your skin either.

TSA Tips

It’s no secret that going through TSA can be stressful. However, the more prepared you are the easier the process will be.

Your travel-size sunscreen should be less than 100mL and all of your liquid should be able to fit in a 1-quart size bag. Keeping the bag on top so you can easily remove it when you get a security line is key.

It's also important that if you do get stopped by TSA, you allow them to inspect your bag. They often pull people aside for random inspections and as long as your sunscreen and other products are within the guidelines, there shouldn't be a problem.

One of the best things about traveling with travel-size sunscreen is it doesn't take up a lot of room in your bag. You can easily take it with you on your adventures and activities so you can reapply.

Travel-Size Sunscreen

There are a lot of options when it comes to travel-size sunscreen. Choosing the best one can be overwhelming, but we hope this article has helped you determine the right one for your skin.

We have a lot of options listed on our website. Don't be afraid to try several. It may take you some time to find the one that you like the best.

Start shopping here so you have everything you need for your next vacation.