If you’re packing for a cruise, one of the most common questions is: Can I bring full-size sunscreen, lotions, or other liquids? The answer depends on how you’re getting to the port, because the rules for airplanes and cruise ships are very different.

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✈️ Flying to Your Cruise: TSA’s 3-1-1 Rule Still Applies

If you’re flying to your embarkation port, you’re under TSA rules:

• Liquids, gels, and aerosols must be in containers 3.4 ounces (100 mL) or less.
• Everything must fit in one quart-size clear zip bag per traveler.
• Anything larger needs to go in checked luggage.

That means your big bottle of sunscreen or body lotion won’t make it through airport security if you only pack carry-on.

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🚢 Once You’re On the Cruise Ship: More Flexibility

Cruise lines like Royal Caribbean allow you to bring full-size sunscreen, lotion, shampoo, and other liquids onboard. There’s no size restriction like the TSA rule, so you can pack what you need in your luggage.

A few things to know:

• If you’re not in a suite, your stateroom shower only has a multi-purpose wall dispenser (body wash + shampoo combo). If you prefer your own products, bring them.
• Reef-safe sunscreen is recommended. Some destinations are moving away from sunscreens with ingredients like oxybenzone and octinoxate.

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🌞 My Hack: Getting Full-Size Sunscreen When You Fly Carry-On

Since my family rarely checks bags when we fly, I always place an Instacart order to the hotel the night before our cruise. That way, I can get full-size spray sunscreens, lotions, and anything else I don’t want to worry about at airport security.

This trick saves money compared to buying sunscreen on the ship, and it guarantees you’ll have enough for your whole trip.

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🧼 Don’t Forget Hand Soap

Another packing must: hand soap for your cabin. Cruise ships usually stock a tiny square bar of soap in the bathroom sink, and I don’t love using it. I recommend packing your own:

• I keep my favorite travel hand soap linked in my Amazon list.
• Or, if you’re doing that Instacart order before your cruise, you can add a bottle of foam or liquid hand soap to make your cabin feel more like home.

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✅ Final Packing Tips

• Bring travel-size sunscreen for your flight, then stock up once you’re near the port.
• Check your cruise line’s packing policy for updates. Royal Caribbean and other major lines allow full-size liquids.
• Order ahead if you’re flying with carry-on only. Instacart or a local store drop-off makes it easy.
• Pack your own hand soap and toiletries if you don’t want to rely on the all-in-one shower dispenser.

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Final Thoughts

Yes, you can absolutely bring full-size sunscreen and body lotion on a cruise. Just remember: TSA rules apply until you’re past the airport. Once you’re on the ship, it’s smooth sailing, and a lot more flexible.