Can You Bring Sunscreen on a Plane?
Category: Toiletries & Personal Care
Yes, with limits — you can bring sunscreen in carry-on bags provided you follow security limits. Cream/lotion: ≤3.4 oz per container in the quart bag.
Verified against published 2026 TSA (United States) & CATSA (Canada) security screening databases.
On this page · 9 sections
⚖️ Why This Rule Exists: International 3-1-1 Liquid Security Rules & Container Geometry
Containers with a marked capacity of 100 ml (3.4 oz) or less that fit within a single clear, resealable 1-quart (1-liter) plastic bag are permitted through screening because small volumes can be rapidly inspected and present limited hazard potential.
Rules by security authority
United States — TSA
Carry-on
Restricted
Yes — lotion or spray of 3.4 oz (100 ml) or less per container in your liquids bag.
Checked bag
Yes
Yes — any size; aerosol cans count toward the FAA’s 18 oz each / 70 oz (2 L) total toiletry cap.
Flying internationally? Security follows the country you depart from — the authority above applies at your departure airport. Customs at arrival is separate.
🔍 Security Checkpoint & X-Ray Screening Advice
Place your clear 1-quart bag in the screening bin outside your luggage in 2D X-ray lanes. In 3D CT scanner lanes, keep it inside your bag unless instructed otherwise by the screening officer.
Learn more about scanner differences and traveler rights in our Airport Security Screening Guide →
⚠️ Common Traveler Mistake to Avoid
How to Avoid It: Consolidate all toiletries into one quart bag per traveler or transition to solid alternatives (shampoo bars, solid deodorant).
💧 3-1-1 liquids rule checker
One quart-size (≈1 L) bag per passenger; every container must be 3.4 oz (100 ml) or less.
Fit is approximate — container shape decides real-world packing. Medically necessary liquids and infant food are exempt: declare them. Packing a whole bag? Plan it container by container →
How to Pack Sunscreen for a Flight
Sunscreen on a plane — FAQs
Can you bring Sunscreen in a carry-on?
Yes — lotion or spray of 3.4 oz (100 ml) or less per container in your liquids bag.
Can you pack Sunscreen in checked luggage?
Yes — any size; aerosol cans count toward the FAA’s 18 oz each / 70 oz (2 L) total toiletry cap.
Why are there rules for sunscreen on a plane?
Containers with a marked capacity of 100 ml (3.4 oz) or less that fit within a single clear, resealable 1-quart (1-liter) plastic bag are permitted through screening because small volumes can be rapidly inspected and present limited hazard potential.
Last verified:
Verified against official sources. Rules change — for high-stakes items, confirm with your airline and the screening authority. Our verification method →