On a recent Caribbean holiday, I ran out of sun cream and had to spend £35 at the gift shop for a brand I didn’t love. To make matters worse, the bottle was too large to pack in my carry-on (security still only allows liquids of 100ml or less in the vast majority of instances, and yes, sun cream counts as a liquid), so it didn’t even make it home with me. After that incident, I was determined to find the best travel-sized sunscreen on the market. Beyond being airport-approved, I looked for formulas that are reef-safe and formulated with skincare in mind (as I age, I pay more and more attention to the ingredients I’m putting on my skin.)
As we’ve all learned by now, sunscreen is always important – even in cooler climates and colder seasons, but especially in key summer destinations like Spain, Morocco, and the Caribbean. According to the WHO, 80 per cent of UV rays penetrate clouds. So, wherever you’re headed this summer, make sure you have some SPF on hand that will protect your skin on long days of fun in the sun.
Below, I gathered 10 travel-sized sunscreens worth packing on your next trip, whether you need a water-resistant lotion for the pool or a tinted moisturiser that doubles as your holiday makeup. My favourites are easy to apply and effective at providing sun protection – and they’re totally security approved.
In this article:
Top picks of travel-sized sun cream:
Dermatone sport sunscreen lotion
Size: 85ml
SPF: 50
Formula: Chemical
Water resistance: 80 minutes
This is my go-to sunscreen for kids. Dermatone Sport SPF 50 is a water-resistant sun cream that holds up to long days in and out of the water with no complaints of stingy eyes. The compact tube easily slips into a carry-on, while broad-spectrum protection helps shield skin from UVA and UVB rays. The lightweight formula makes it easy to reapply and I love that it has aloe and Vitamins C and E built into the sunscreen.
Colorescience Sunforgettable total protection face shield SPF 50
Size: 50ml
SPF: 50
Formula: Mineral
Water resistance: 40 minutes
Before trying Colorescience’s best-selling formula, Supergoop’s Glow Screen was my favourite tinted sunscreen. The Sunforgettable Face Shield delivers broad-spectrum mineral protection in a lightweight formula, all while offering more coverage than other tinted moisturisers I’ve used in the past. Available in six shades, it helps even skin tone while protecting against UVA/UVB rays, blue light, pollution and infrared radiation. I’m all about streamlining my skincare routine and, with this one product, I eliminated foundation and added sunscreen.
Summer Fridays ShadeDrops SPF 50 mineral milk sunscreen
Size: 50ml
SPF: 50
Formula: Mineral
Water resistance: 80 minutes
This mineral sun cream with SPF 50 from Summer Fridays is a favourite of commerce editor Meaghan Kenny’s. As the name suggests, it has a weightless, milky formula that blends into the skin seamlessly without leaving behind a white cast. “It’s lightweight enough for everyday wear and doesn’t feel greasy at all,” says Kenny. “I can even layer it underneath makeup without worrying about pilling. It’s my go-to at home and when I’m travelling, thanks to its tiny size that fits right in my makeup bag.”
Badger Adventure mineral sunscreen cream
Size: 82ml
SPF: 50
Formula: Mineral
Water resistance: 80 minutes
For travellers seeking a reef-friendly sun cream with a simple, clean ingredient list, the Badger Adventure mineral sunscreen is a standout. Made with non-nano zinc oxide and nourishing organic ingredients, this water-resistant formula is particularly well-suited for beach holidays, snorkelling excursions, and active outdoor adventures. While slightly thicker than some modern mineral formulas, it still goes on without leaving a white cast.
Riversol daily glow mineral sunscreen
Size: 50ml
SPF: 50
Formula: Mineral
Water resistance: 40 minutes
As I get older, and especially in the summer, I skip foundation completely and lean on a tinted moisturiser. I’ve tried at least a dozen and have narrowed down my favourites to three. One of those is Riversol Daily Glow mineral sunscreen, blending sun protection with skincare benefits, and making me fall more in love with my minimalist beauty routine. The lightweight mineral formula delivers broad-spectrum sun protection while imparting a subtle radiance that leaves skin looking healthy and refreshed. Hydrating ingredients help combat the dryness that can come with long travel days and changing climates.
Hueguard 3-in-1 mineral sunscreen
Size: 50ml
SPF: 30
Formula: Mineral
Water resistance: 80 minutes
Live Tinted has developed a loyal following thanks to its ability to provide mineral sun protection without leaving behind the chalky white cast often associated with zinc-based sun cream. One of the main reasons I recommend the Live Tinted Hueguard is its three-in-one formula. Not only is it a sunscreen, it’s also a moisturiser and primer. I was skeptical that a mineral sun cream could be layered with makeup, but I can see this one being a big hit for destination weddings or an alfresco brunch date.
Supergoop! Unseen sunscreen stick
Size: 20ml
SPF: 40
Formula: Chemical
Water resistance: 80 minutes
Supergoop is a go-to sun care brand for several Traveller editors. I’ve tried a variety of Supergoop formulas over the years and have loved them all. While the tinted Glow Screen has been a mainstay for me, I’ve also grown fond of the Unseen sunscreen stick. I love the hands-free, easy-to-use swipe of the stick. It’s a weightless formula that disappears into skin without leaving any residue. I’ve come to learn that a lot of sun cream sticks leave behind a shine, which is great if your skin is on the dry side. But since summer skin is typically more hydrated, this no-show finish (I wouldn’t quite call it matte) is a welcome addition to my toiletry bag. For those who tend to burn more easily, this stick is an efficient way to add another layer of protection to the nose, cheekbones, and shoulders.
Naked Sundays hydrating glow mist setting spray
Size: 70ml
SPF: 50
Formula: Chemical
Water resistance: 80 minutes
For travellers who wear makeup but still want to stay diligent about sun protection, Naked Sundays‘ Hydrating Glow Mist setting spray solves one of sun cream’s biggest challenges: reapplication. The ultra-fine mist can be sprayed over makeup throughout the day without smudging or disrupting your look, making it ideal for sightseeing, beach walks, and long afternoons spent outdoors. Infused with Pentavitin, a plant-derived hydrator known for its moisture-retaining properties, the formula leaves skin feeling refreshed while imparting a subtle glow.
Vacation Shimmer Oil SPF 30
Size: 85ml
SPF: 30
Formula: Chemical
Water resistance: 80 minutes
Vacation Shimmer Oil with SPF 30 combines broad-spectrum protection with a glimmering, sun-kissed glow, making it a nice choice for tropical trips and poolside afternoons. The lightweight formula leaves skin looking luminous without feeling heavy, while the brand’s nostalgic beach-inspired scent enhances the whole holiday experience. Though not intended for intense outdoor activities, it’s a fun option for travellers who want sun protection with a touch of glamour.
FAQ:
What size sun cream is allowed on a plane?
Travelers can bring liquids up to 100ml in their carry-on. Liquids must fit in the provided clear resealable bag. Anything larger than 100ml must be tucked away in a checked suitcase. Important to note: Even if you have a full-size bottle of sunscreen with less than 100ml remaining in the tube, you will have to pack it in a checked case – or you risk it being thrown away.
Can I bring sunscreen spray on the plane?
Yes, aerosol sunscreen is considered a liquid, so as long as it meets the 100ml guideline, it is allowed on the plane. Pack your favourite spray inside a toiletry bag or Ziploc bag to protect your belongings from any accidental spills. It’s also a good idea to tape your sun cream spray to avoid it from accidentally misting in your bag.
What should I look for in the best sun cream?
Look for SPF 30 or higher, and sunscreens that offer broad-spectrum coverage and water-resistance.
How do I know if my SPF is reef-safe?
Check the label to see if your sun cream is listed as reef-safe. Travellers wanting a reef-safe sunscreen should also consider mineral formulas that contain zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. Try to avoid the ingredients oxybenzone and octinoxat as they are both toxic to marine life.
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