Healthy Fun in the Sun on Your Next Trip

Don’t forget to pack smart and protect yourself from the sun while traveling!

Don’t risk ruining your trip or your health with too much sun.

Using sun protection can prevent sunburn during your vacation and protect you against skin cancer later. Nearly 5 million people are treated for skin cancer each year in the United States. Skin cancer can be serious, expensive, and sometimes even deadly. Fortunately, most cases are preventable, and as a traveler, you can use simple strategies to keep yourself and your family safe from the sun.

Why is sun protection important for your travel plans?

Travelers spending time outdoors are exposed to the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays, even on cloudy days.

Travelers are at increased risk when traveling:

• Near the equator.
• During summer months (December–March in the Southern Hemisphere).
• At high altitudes.

Reflection from the snow, sand, and water increases exposure, so consider sun safety during outdoor activities such as:

• Skiing or other activities in the snow.
• Spending time at the beach.
• Swimming.
• Sailing or other water activities.

What can travelers do?

Enjoy safe travels and choose sun protection strategies that work.

Pack sun protection and bring:

• Clothing to protect your skin, such as long-sleeved shirts and pants.
• A hat with a wide brim to shade the face, head, ears, and neck.
• Sunglasses that block both UVA and UVB rays.
• Broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher. Remember that sunscreen is most effective when used in combination with other methods.

Protect yourself from the sun on your trip:

• Wear sun protective gear such as sunglasses, hats, and protective clothing.
• Seek shade, especially during midday hours (10 am to 4 pm). Try using an umbrella, cabana, or a tree for shade.
• Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher at least 15 minutes before sun exposure.
• Reapply sunscreen at least every 2 hours and after swimming, sweating, or toweling off.
• If using insect repellent, apply sunscreen first, let it dry, and apply insect repellent on top of it.
• Avoid tanning beds or sunbathing. Getting a “base tan” before your trip damages your skin and provides minimal protection against burning during your trip. Remember tanned skin is damaged skin!

Use these tips to enjoy safe fun in the sun while you travel!