15 Sun Protection Essentials You Can Stash In Your Car, Backpack Or Purse

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Sun’s out, fun’s out! It’s already heating up across the country, with spring and early summer forecasts expecting broad expanses of heat and high temperatures for many. For those who are planning trips to enjoy the great outdoors, you’ll want to double up on your sun and heat protection this season.

Sun-stroke, also known as heatstroke, can be severe and life-threatening if you’re not properly prepared, with symptoms ranging from high body temperatures, confusion, nausea, headache and even seizures. And not to put too fine a point on the importance of your skin health, you do not want to be the expected one in five Americans to develop skin cancer in their lifetime, according to the American Academy of Dermatology.

So from beach and boating lovers, to campers, hikers and athletes, you’ll want to keep a few handy accessories stashed in your car, backpack or purse. Essential protection will include sunscreen and protective gear, investing in proper apparel with UPF protection, and keeping first aid supplies handy and within reach while being active outdoors.

And we can’t forget - be sure to download The Weather Channel app to get all of your daily, weekend and 10-day forecasts, breaking news and access to fun outdoor planning tools.

Essential Protection

1. Sun Bum Road Tripper | Travel Sized Sun Care Pack

Price: $23.95 at Amazon; starting at $18.49 at Ulta

Rating: 4.8-stars on Amazon

Why we like it:

• SPF 30 broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection
• Water resistant for 80 minutes
• Made without oxybenzone and octinoxate, cruelty-free and vegan
• Comes with SPF 30 lotion, face stick and lip balm
• Tips: apply 15 minutes before sun exposure and reapply at least every 2 hours

2. Banana Boat Sport Ultra SPF 50 Lip Sunscreen

Price: $5.79, was $6.49 at Amazon; $6.56 at Walmart

Rating: 4.6-stars; 7,000+ ratings

Why we like it:

• SPF 50+ broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection
• Oxybenzone and octinoxate free
• Non-greasy formula with moisturizing ingredients, according to company

3. Repel Umbrella

Price: $29.99, was $34.99 at Amazon

Rating: 4.5-stars; 100,000+ ratings

Why we like it:

• Waterproof and windproof
• UV protection
• Double-vented canopy
• Fiberglass covered frame
• Auto open and close function
• Lightweight and compact for purse, backpack or car

4. GearTOP UPF 50+ Beach Hat (Unisex)

Price: $19.99, was $29.99 at Amazon

Rating: 4.5-stars; 27,000+ ratings

Why we like it:

• 8 color options
• Unisex fit with adjustable sizing
• UPF 50+ protection from UVA/UVB rays
• Water-resistant
• Foldable and easy to pack

5. SUNGAIT Vintage Round Sunglasses (2-Pack)

Price: $23.99 at Amazon

Rating: 4.6-stars; 52,000+ ratings

Why we like it:

• 30 combinations of color and bundle options
• UV400 protection non-polarized lens
• TR90 material bends under pressure without breaking, according to company
• Lightweight materials

Clothing & Accessories

6. Columbia Sun Protection Clothing

Price: starting at $30 at Columbia

Why we like it:

• Columbia offers a variety of sun protection options, including long-sleeve shirts, polos, t-shirts, shorts, jackets, hats and more.
• Clothing for both men and women available

7. Freezer Zero™ II Neck Gaiter

Price: $30 at Columbia

Rating: 4.3-stars; 265 ratings

Why we like it:

• Sweat-activated rings to absorb moisture and evaporation
• UPF 50 guards for UVA/UBV protection
• Moisture-wicking fabric
• Ideal for fishing, boating and working outdoors

8. JISULIFE Portable Neck Fan

Price: starting at $28.89 at Amazon

Why we like it:

• 360 degree neck fan
• 5-speeds
• Hands-free design
• Battery charge lasts between 4 to 16 hours depending on fan speed

Skin Care & Comfort

9. La Roche-Posay Thermal Spring Water

Price: $10.49, was $13.99 at Amazon

Rating: 4.7-stars; 12,000+ ratings

Why we like it:

• Contains combination of mineral salts and trace elements for skin soothing
• Paraben-free and suitable for sensitive skin
• Use daily instead of toner; after cleansing, spray on face and leave on for 3 minutes
• Uses: Finish cleansing routine, soothe redness, soften skin, aid decongestion

10. Sukeen Cooling Towel (4-Pack)

Price: $17.99, was $19.99 at Amazon

Rating: 4.5-stars; 26,000+ ratings

Why we like it:

• Made from breathable mesh materials
• Towel may stay chilled up to 3 hours depending on weather conditions
• Quick drying and skin friendly according to company
• UPF 50+ sun protection

11. Natural Face Oil Blotting Paper

Price: $6.95 at Amazon

Rating: 4.6-stars; 15,000+ ratings

Why we like it:

• Designed for all skin types
• Absorbs excess oil to control face shine
• Made from natural linen with bamboo charcoal, according to company

12. Seven Minerals Organic Aloe Vera Gel

Price: $19.95, was $24.95 at Amazon and Walmart

Rating: 4.5-stars; 76,000+ ratings

Why we like it:

• Uses real freshly cut aloe leaves, according to company
• NSF Organic & IASC certified, carbon neutral, 100% PCR bottle
• Uses: soothes sunburn, cuts, rashes, calms shaving burn, and the sting from bites

Health & Safety

13. Owala FreeSip Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle

Price: $29.98 at Amazon and OwalaLife.com; starting at $21 at Walmart

Rating: 4.6-stars; 67,000+ ratings

Why we like it:

• Insulated stainless-steel water bottle
• Push-button lid with lock
• Two part spout: sip or swig
• Carry loop
• Keeps drink cold for up to 24 hours
• BPA, lead and phthalate-free, according to company
• Hand wash cup, dishwasher-safe lid
• Caution: do not use with hot liquids

14. LMNT Zero Sugar Electrolytes

Price: $14.99 at Walmart (8-stick pack); $21.59, was $23.99 at Amazon (12-stick pack)

Rating: 4.5-stars; 39,000+ ratings

Why we like it:

• No sugar; health alternative to sports drinks
• Made up of sodium, potassium and magnesium
• Can be used in low-carb or ketogenic lifestyle, according to company
• Mix with 16-32 ounces of water, sparkling water, tea or smoothie

15. First Aid Only Heat Stress Kit

Price: $21.59, was $23.99 at Amazon

Rating: 4.5-stars; 39,000+ ratings

Why we like it:

• 72-piece kit
• Includes: cold packs, thermometers, electrolyte drink mix and tablets, emergency blanket, waterproof tape

Price accurate and item in stock at time of publish.

Safety & Preparedness

Whether you’re looking for essential items you must have around a severe weather event, vacation and trip planning, or just want some every-day products for any weather (we’re looking at you, rain boots), be sure to check out these in-depth shopping guides for inspiration.

• Best Portable Generators: Get Them Before Storm Season
• Storm Prep: Flashlights, Chargers, Storm Radios And Other Necessities
• Stay Dry With These Top Rated Rain Boots For Men And Women
• Dehumidifier Guide: How It Works And Our Top Picks
• A Complete Guide To Portable Air Conditioners