Sun Protection Apparel To Pack for Your Summer Vacation

Planning a summer vacation means basking in the sun’s warmth and enjoying outdoor activities. However, it’s crucial to prioritize sun protection to avoid sunburn and long-term skin damage. Packing the right sun protection apparel is one of the best ways to safeguard yourself. That’s why the Inn at Otter Crest team curated this packing guide for sun protection. The Inn at Otter Crest in Otter Rock is a top lodging choice on the Central Oregon Coast, known for its stunning location, luxurious amenities, diverse lodging options, and exceptional service. The inn, perched on a cliff, offers stunning panoramic views of the coastline, with all rooms featuring private balconies for enjoying the sunset and spotting migrating whales.

The Importance of Sun Protection Apparel

“Physical protection from UV light is always better than sunscreen alone because the sunscreen can run off with sweat,” says Caroline A. Chang, MD, FAAD, founder of Rhode Island Dermatology Institute. Studies indicate that over-the-counter sunscreens may not fully block all radiation and cannot protect against certain cancer-causing wavelengths. Often, sun protection apparel provides greater sun protection than the UPF label suggests, while sunscreen offers less protection than the SPF number. This is because the application of sun protection clothing is straightforward and harder to mess up.

How to Find Quality Sun Protection Clothing

When shopping for sun protection apparel, look for items labeled with UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) ratings. Aim for garments with a UPF of 50+ for excellent protection. The Skin Cancer Foundation’s Seal of Recommendation requires a UPF rating of at least 30. Check out the top-rated men’s sun protection shirts tested by Outdoor Lab. You can also find a general guide from SELF Magazine for the 25 Best UPF Clothing Options in 2024.

Sun Protection Apparel Shopping Tips:

Fabrics like denim, canvas, wool, or synthetics offer more sun protection than sheer or loosely woven fabrics. To check a fabric’s sun protection, hold it up to the light – if you can see through it, UV radiation can penetrate it easily and reach your skin.
Dark or bright colored sun protection apparel absorb UV rays, offering better skin protection than lighter shades.
Loose-fitting clothing is recommended as tight garments can stretch, reducing protection by allowing more UV light to pass through.

Sun Protection Accessories:

Wide-brimmed Hats: Choose a wide-brimmed hat with UPF-rated materials for maximum sun protection.
Sunglasses: Protect your eyes with sunglasses labeled as 100% UV protection.
UV-Protective Swimwear: Consider UV-protective swimwear like rash guards and UPF-rated swim bottoms for sun protection at the beach or pool.
Sunscreen: While packing your sun protection apparel, you can never forget sunscreen! Choose a sunscreen that is a broad spectrum, water resistant, and at least UPF 30.