Even if you’ve scheduled a cruise in Alaska or through Northern Europe, chances are you’ll be outside. A lot. And since nothing ruins a vacation faster than a sunburn, you’ll want to leave room in your luggage for some items to protect your skin from the sun. Sunglasses of course are a must-have so be sure to check out the best sunglasses for a cruise. For the rest of your body, we’ve got you covered with essential sun-safe items below.
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Best wide-brimmed straw hat for women: Coolibar Perla Wide Brim Hat, $59
Amazon
If you’re looking for a sun hat that’s also stylish, the Coolibar Perla fits the bill. It’s woven of a polyester “straw” material that looks like natural fiber but is more durable.
The hat features a UPF rating of 50+ to block 98% of UVA/UVB rays. It comes in one size only, but an internal ribbon allows you to tighten or loosen the fit. An external bow dresses the hat up a bit. The brim is longer in front (3-¾”) than in the rear (2-⅛”).
One verified customer said, “This is the sun hat I had been searching for for years! It provides excellent protection and it actually looks good on me. Another big selling point is the pack-ability. I took it on a trip overseas and just folded it up and threw it in my backpack. I was worried that the shape wouldn’t come back, but it did. This hat is well worth the price.”
Best foldable sun hat for women: Solbari Ultra Wide Cotton Linen Hat, $65
Amazon
This soft breathable hat made of a cotton/linen blend features a super wide brim that measures 5 inches in the front and 6 inches in the back. Its UPF 50+ rating blocks 98% of UVA/UVB rays.
It’s also foldable, making it easy to pack in luggage or a beach bag. A slot in the back accommodates a ponytail and a detachable chin strap keeps the hat secure in windy conditions or if you’re out on, say, a speed boat or jet ski. Available in four colors and two sizes (S/M or L/XL). It's handwashable but be sure to dry in the shade to prevent shrinking.
Best straw hat for men: Wallaroo Fedora, $59
Amazon
A stylish fedora isn’t what comes to mind when you think “sun hat,” but this one features UPF 50+ so it’s suitable for the brightest conditions. Its brim is 3” around; an internal adjustable feature lets you tighten or loosen the fit for comfort and security.
One reviewer said he had “been looking for a summer hat that fit my large head and have great UV protection for sometime, now I have found it. This hat is made of Quality material, yes it cost more compared to other hats but it’s worth it.” Available in four colors and two sizes (M/L and L/XL).
Best foldable sun hat for men: Panama Jack, $47
Amazon
Channel your inner Indiana Jones with this breathable foldable hat. Like the other hats on this list it has a UPF 50+ rating for maximum sun protection though note its open-mesh crown does not have a UPF rating.
An inner sweatband prevents the hat from sticking to your head and many reviewers commented about how breathable the hat is, keeping their head cool, even in the hot sun.
Available in three colors (Fossil, Navy, Khaki) and three sizes (M, L, XL).
Best reef-safe sunscreen: Sun Bum Original SPF 50 Sunscreen Lotion, $19
Amazon
The chemicals in most sunscreens are known to be damaging to coral reefs. Mineral-based sunscreens with titanium dioxide or zinc oxide reflect the sun’s rays and are much less likely to harm coral reefs and the biodiversity they support.
So as someone whose travels are taking them to parts of the world where they are likely to encounter vulnerable environments such as coral, paying attention to what you’re putting into the water is essential. Enter sunscreens that are rated Hawaii 104 Reef Act Compliant.
Reviewers say Sun Bum "smells like summer." It’s also oil-free and water-resistant.
Best lip balm with SPF Aquaphor Lip Protectant + Sunscreen, $6
Amazon
Aquaphor both soothes and protects lips from the sun, thanks to its broad spectrum SPF 30. Reviewers love how soft it makes their lips feel, thanks to ingredients like shea butter and vitamins E and B. Aquaphor doesn’t have a scent and most reviewers say it has no taste but some say it tastes “bitter.”
Best sun shirt/rash guard for women: Land’s End Swim Tee, $37
Amazon
Here’s a rash guard with sun protection – rated UPF 50+ – that doubles as a cute women’s t-shirt. Made of nylon with lycra for stretch and comfort yet resists breakdown from chlorine, sunscreen, and sweat.
One review says she loves the “simplicity of this rash guard. It is so easy to throw on over just about any swimsuit for extra sun protection. I purchased this for a cruise … this piece feels like something I will be wearing for several years. Very happy with the quality.”
Available in 30 colors/patterns and 14 sizes (XX petite to 3X)
Best sun shirt/rash guard for men: O'Neill Men's Long Sleeve Sun Shirt, $29
Amazon
O’Neill’s long-sleeve sun shirt has a recommendation from the Skin Cancer Foundation and it’s ideal for surfing, swimming, paddle sports, boating, and, of course, beach or pool days. If surfing is on the agenda, you’ll appreciate this design’s slim fit and minimal seams (to prevent rashes from rubbing).
One happy buyer said, “We were headed to do some snorkeling and diving in the Caribbean during the summer. Rather than deal with sunscreens, this was a much easier and simpler solution. Simple classic style too! Bonus was getting it wet and keeping cooler out of the water.”
Available in three colors (White, Graphite, Black) and 5 sizes (S-XXL).
Best packable beach bag: Canvas Bag with External Pocket and Zipper, $14
Amazon
For all those excursions, you’re going to need a tote bag. This one is just the right size (21" x 15" x 6") yet folds practically flat for packing. Of course, if you end up doing some shopping on your trip, it also provides an easy way to transport all your purchases. The handle is long enough that it’s comfortable to wear over your shoulder. A zipper keeps contents secure and the spacious external pocket is ideal for sunglasses, sunscreen, water bottles, etc.
The bag has thousands of 5-star ratings on Amazon and it’s available in 14 colors.
