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When you want a day of exploring the sunny streets of Europe or wandering the boardwalk by the coast, you want to look good, but also protect your skin. Sun block clothing gives you the extra protection you need, and these TFG picks will look lovely too!

 

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Best UPF Clothing

Written By: Laura Pulling

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Table Of Contents

 

 

When you’re traveling and lucky enough to be blessed with sun-kissed streets and clear blue skies, everything seems brighter and more vibrant. However, you don’t want to say the same for your skin! 

Turning a shade of fuschia and looking like a lobster isn’t the vacation look you want to go for, and a regular tee doesn’t offer as much protection as you may think. In fact, a normal white cotton t-shirt has a UPF of around 5. UV protection clothing has a more tightly woven fabric, often with zinc or titanium inside to reflect UV rays. They are designed to keep you both cool and block those powerful UV rays from penetrating through, protecting your skin from damage.

 

 

In my Wallaroo Victoria Hat and Eddie Bauer Shirt (Both with UPF 50+ Protection)

 

It’s far easier to slip on UV shirts and be covered than risk not applying sunscreen properly. However, that doesn’t mean one should skip sunscreen, applying it and wearing this type of clothing combined can offer protection when visiting hot destinations, or on those occasions you plan to be outdoors for lengthy periods of time.

 

Check out some of the best summer clothing that is not only travel-friendly and sun safe, but looks fashionable too!

 

 

Best UPF Dresses

 

 

Shop Sizes XS-XXL: Amazon | Columbia

 

Columbia Freezer Maxi Dress

 

Overall, Columbia is a hugely popular brand with TFG readers and travelers! The Freezer dress is highly versatile as it can be dressed up or down and can be packed for humid destinations due to its sweat-wicking and cooling properties, as well as UPF 50 sun protection. 

One wearer raves about it, saying, “This dress is awesome! Material is stretchy, breathable, and moves with you. This will be perfect for hot and humid days, beach or water vacations, and on all occasions.” Also available in short version here!

 

Here’s a readers favorite to avoid chaffing thighs so you can prevent that nasty summer discomfort that could risk ruining your trip or excursion!

 

 

Shop Sizes XXS-3XL: Athleta

 

Athleta Santorini Thera Dress

 

This brand is highly popular with TFG readers for their UPF protection clothing and this Athleta halter dress is included on that list! This makes an awesome all-around summer dress due to the UPF protection and fabric that pulls away moisture from the body. 

Great for travelling, vacation or exploring your town or city as it packs light and comes in gorgeous colors and a range of sizes (XXS-3XL regular, S-XL tall and XS-L petite). One review says, “Buttery soft, and a really flattering fit- this was just what I was looking for to complement my travel plans!”

 

 

Shop Eddie Bauer: XS-XXL | Petite S-L | Plus Size 1X-3X

 

Eddie Bauer Departure Easy Tank Dress

 

This cute, yet functional Eddie Bauer tank dress is super breathable fabric (polyester/spandex) which is coated with moisture-wicking technolog and has UPF 50+ to ward against harmful UV and UVB rays. It moves and packs up really well.

The drawstring at the waist gives it some feminine detailing and the handy pockets are excellent for keeping essentials hidden—perfect for travel! 

One wearer says, “This material is light and doesn’t cling to you! It’s comfortable and I love the fact it’s SPF 50! Their sunscreen clothing is perfect for everyday wear in the heat of summer.”

 

 

Shop: Amazon | Toad&Co

 

Toad&Co UV Clothing – Sunkissed Maxi Dress

 

Feel girly and feminine in this printed Toad&Co UPF sun protection dress. The lightweight fabric is water-friendly, quick-drying, and moisture-wicking, plus it is UPF 40 protective. It is made from recycled polyester and waterless dyes, so you can rest assured you’re doing your bit for the planet.

One owner of this cute dress shares, “It looks a lot better in person than the stock photo. The cut is flattering and slimming (perfectly cinched slightly above the waist) and is a good quality fabric.”

 

 

Shop Sizes XXS-XXL and 2X-3X: Amazon

 

Coolibar Oceanside Women’s Long Sleeve Tunic Dress

 

One of the first Coolibar clothing products on this list (and not the last!) Coolibar are recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation for having fabrics that are as effective as UV protectants, and this Coolibar dress is made from a bamboo-spandex blend fabric which has UPF 50+ protection. The flattering tunic style hits at mid-thigh and has a feminine notch neckline. Wear it alone, or with leggings for a more covered look.

Ladies LOVE this dress, one wearer explains “This is my second Oceanside tunic dress. Very comfortable. Can be dressed up or dressed down—pair with espadrilles for day wear or strappy sandals for the evening—keeps you cool, protected, and elegant.”

This brand has a great sizing range, from XXS-3X, so this is a wonderful sundress for plus size women.

 

If you’re looking for an even airer option, check out the sleeveless tank style.

 

 

Shop Sizes S-XXL: Chico’s

 

Zenergy UPF Neema Bungee Sun Dress

 

A sun dress can look great and is easily accessories for a plethora of vacay looks. Form beach casual over a bikini and with flip flops, or dress with statement jewelry for a night out. This Neema Bungee dress ticks all of the boxes for travel, being lightweight, moisture-wicking, and quick-drying, and it has UPF 50 protection for sun safe sightseeing in style!

One wearer shares, “I have four Bungee dresses and love them for a quick wardrobe change that can be dressed up or dressed down.” Another one adds, I have last years version of this dress and was so pleased to see it again in a new color. It is comfortable and stylish and perfect for travel.”

 

For more inspiration, check out the best summer dresses as chosen by readers!

 

 

Best UPF Sunscreen Shirts

 

 

Shop Sizes XS-XXL: Amazon | Eddie Bauer

 

Editor’s Pick: Eddie Bauer Mountain Ripstop Long-Sleeve Shirt

 

This Eddie Bauer shirt has been a surprising winner in TFG editor-in-chief Alex’s wardrobe, having SPF 50+ sun protection and moisture-wicking capabilities so I don’t overheat, and the cut isn’t overly fitted or saggy. 

It’s versatile for everything! She’s paired them with denim shorts in Playa del Carmen, worn it as a cover up when walking down the beach, and tucked this into her favorite jeans while flying. She seriously can’t get enough of this top!!!

What she likes most is this shirt comes in a variety of sizes and colors to suit a number of women. It comes in regular (XS-XXL), petite (S-L), tall (M-XXL), and plus sizes (2X-3X)! 

 

Find out why TFG readers also constantly choose Eddie Bauer shirts for travel in this review!

 

 

Shop Sizes XS-XL: Eddie Bauer

 

Eddie Bauer Departure Short-Sleeve V-Neck T-Shirt

 

This Eddie Bauer tee is another ideal choice for hot weather! It has built-in moisture-wicking properties, UPF 50+ sun protection, and is super lightweight and stretchy. And bonus: it has a hidden zip pocket to hold items!

One user says of this top, “This shirt is comfortable, but looks sharp enough that it can transition from casual to business. It packs small, is lightweight, and dries fast so is good for travel.” You can grab this in other pretty colors and sizes XS-XXL.

 

 

Shop Sizes XS-XXL and 1X-2X: Amazon | Columbia

 

Columbia Tamiami Ii Short Sleeve UPF Shirts

 

Made from Omni-shade fabric, this Columbia sun shirt offers UPF 40+ protection from the burning sun. This short sleeve UPF shirt is made from a super-light fabric that is cool and vented. It also has an antimicrobial treatment which keeps it fresher for longer.

One reviewer shares, “Great fit, light, and airy fabric, plenty of room in the shoulder and chest.”

 

 

Shop Sizes XS-XXL: Amazon

 

Jessie Kidden UV Long Sleeve Shirts

 

These boyfriend, button-down Jessie Kidden sun protection shirts are made from using Omni-Shade UPF 50 fabric for maximum protection against the sun. Suitable for hiking, exploring a bustling city, or heading out on safari, this shirt is also lightweight and moisture-wicking, with a mesh-lined, ventilated back to keep you cool too. The wrinkle-resistant fabric means it’s great for travel.

Reviews are positive, with one sharing, “I’m very impressed with these UV protection shirts and it was great for my trip to the Middle East. Great against the wind whipping sand storms, and I didn’t sweat too much in it with the sun beating down in the desert.” This is available in so many colors it’ll make your head happy and comes in a range of sizes, XS-XXL.

 

 

Shop Sizes XXS-XL and 1X-3X: Athleta

 

Athleta Everlasting Tank

 

For a simple sun protection shirt that has strong UPF 50+ material, the Athleta Everlasting tank ticks all the boxes. A super soft material that’s featherweight stretch™ fabric, silky sleek and light as air, you can tuck in or out.

One reviewer shares, “This top is flattering and extremely comfortable. Feels like you’re in your own skin! This is my new ‘go-to’ summer top.”

 

 

Shop Sizes XS-3XL Regular, Petite, Tall and Plus: Lands’ End

 

Lands’ End Long Sleeve T-Shirt

 

The relaxed fit, Lands’ End long sleeve UV shirt is perfect for sightseeing along the boulevards of Europe. The round neck design with statement stripes keeps you covered on the décolletage, where sun weathered skin can be most affected. The rounded dip hem adds detail, but wearers warn it can run on the larger side, so you may want to size down for a more streamlined fit.

Users adore it though, with one sharing “I have several of these shirts in sleeveless, short sleeve and long sleeve. I love them. The fit is flattering, material is soft and they wash well. I wish they offered them in white.”

 

To stay even more cooled off, check out the best linen shirts!

 

 

Best UPF Pants

 

 

Shop Sizes 2-24: Amazon | Columbia | Zappos

 

Columbia Saturday Trail Pants 

 

These Columbia travel pants are a favorite here at TFG as they are so versatile! They are wonderful for travel but also hiking and day to day wear too. They’re water-resistant, have a good stretch, and excellent UPF50+ sun protection. 

The straight leg style looks good season after season, and these pants have pockets including one zippered for extra security. They come in sizes 2-24 and have options for regular, petite, tall, and plus sizes, so will flatter a range of body types. However, reviewers share that these pants can run small, so size up by one or maybe even two sizes.

 

 

Shop Sizes 0-16: Amazon

 

prAna Halle Roll-Up Stretch Pants

 

Always at the top of travel (and everyday wear) lists, the prAna roll-up pants have a “Zion” finish that’s water repellent, is quick-dry, and UPF 50+. 

These easygoing pants can be taken hiking, traveling, or anything else! One reviewer agrees, saying, “I love everything about these pants! They were perfect for a trip to Europe with lots of walking—you can dress them up or down and the fit is very flattering, with enough stretch for easy movement. Now I wear them to work too, where we are on the go all day long.”

 

 

Shop Sizes XS-XL: Toad&Co | Zappos

 

Toad&Co Taj Hemp Pant

 

These stylish Toad&Co pants have UPF 25+ for ultimate sun protection, so you won’t need to overdo the sunscreen. And they’re moisture-wicking and dry quickly in heat, all hallmarks of travel pants worth packing. 

The elasticated waistband has a flat front to have a more tailored appearance and the super-soft material is made from recycled materials.You could pair with a tee, vest, or tank for a daytime look—or a dressy top for an evening out. 

Women LOVE them and say they’re the most “comfortable pants they’ve ever owned.” They come in three other gorgeous colors and in sizes XS-XL.

 

 

 Shop Sizes XXS-XXL and 2X-3X: Amazon

 

Coolibar Monterey Summer Capris 

 

For a casual vibe, that still keeps you UPF 50+ protected, check out these Coolbar Capri leggings. These calf-length pants have a wide waistband and the super-soft fabric has zinc for extra sun reflection too. Available in a wide range of sizes (XXS-3X).

These pants are great for a busy city, like Barcelona or London, during the summer where you whizz around and on and off tube lines. But also equally as comfy and versatile to wear for yoga or relaxing at home! Wearers love them, one shares, “They’re my go-to leggings! The fabric is so soft and lightweight enough for hot, humid days on a vacation in South Carolina. They’re especially nice for those of us with a bit of a tummy.”

 

 

Shop Sizes XS-XXL and 3X: Amazon

 

Coolibar Café Ruche Pants

 

These Colibar ruched pants have a relaxed fit and a tapered leg that screams effortlessly chic and the elastic waistband means they’re incredibly comfortable as well, making them a must-have for the airport or a plane journey to a hot destination. And they really do go with anything so make an essential addition to your vacay capsule wardrobe. With built-in UPF 50+, grab these pants in sizes XXS to 3X.

One wearer shares, “Love them. Live in them. They are so light instead of shorts. The material is well-made, and the construction is solid!”

 

 

Best UPF Shorts

 

 

Shop Sizes XS-XXL and 1X-3X: Amazon

 

Columbia Sandy River Shorts

 

Columbia is a brand that’s always a winner when it comes to traveling and being outdoors, and these Anytime Sandy River shorts are a TFG reader top pick!

These elastic waistband shorts have an adjustable drawcord and a relaxed fit with UPF 30+ protection and numerous pockets, including a zippered one at the back.

One review shares, “Columbia makes just what you’re looking for,” and another user explains, “Love my Columbia Sandy River shorts. 

Get these in regular sizes XS-XXL and plus 1X-3X right here, and don’t forget there are numerous colors to choose from too!

 

 

Shop Sizes XS-XXL and 1X-3X: Amazon

 

Columbia Anytime Casual Skort 

 

Instead of traditional shorts, why not go for this Columbia Anytime skort? It’s a skirt with shorts built-in! They’re made from the company’s signature UPF 50+ fabric and are water and stain-resistant–—perfect for some hiking or running through town. The two front pockets are super handy for ladies on the go.  

This style has comfortable stretch fabric, with adjustable side cinching to enable you to adjust the skirt to the length you desire. One user says that she “just adores that I can still look ‘girly’ in a skirt but have the flexibility of shorts.” 

This skort is available in an array of colors and in regular sizes XS-XXL and plus sizes 1X-3X at this link!

 

 

Shop: Amazon | Eddie Bauer 

 

Eddie Bauer Guide Pro Shorts 

 

Talk about cute shorts that you can wear for a number of activities! Readers love this popular Eddie Bauer pick  because they’re lightweight, have great stretch, are water-repellent, and equipped with UPF 50+ to keep your upper legs protected. 

A reviewer shares, “Eddie Bauer is awesome! These are great travel shorts.” Grab them in an array of colors and in regular sizes (0-16), petite sizes (01-4), tall sizes (0-18), and plus sizes (16W-24W).

 

 

Best UPF Rompers and Jumpsuits

 

 

Shop Sizes 0-16: Athleta

 

Athleta Brooklyn Utility Jumpsuit

 

This Athleta jumpsuit is comfy and summer-ready with wrinkle free fabric, airflow moves easily through the garment and effective UPF 40+ sun protection.

It’s also has side cargo pockets to hold your essentials useful for travel, hiking, or being out and about. Pair with flip flops, a denim jacket, and a sun hat for an easygoing look!  This cute piece is available in two colors and sizes 0-16X regular, tall and petite.

 

 

Shop Sizes XS-XL: prAna | Backcountry | Zappos

 

prAna Railay Jumpsuit

 

For an instant travel perfect outfit, this prAna Railay jumpsuit is your next new favorite! It’s made from a fabric that does everything—UPF 50 protective, its ultrasoft, moisture-wicking, and super packable. Then it has an awesome design that’s as practical as it is stylish, with a slimming cropped leg and an adjustable waistband to flatter the shape, along with plenty of pockets to store essentials.

One user explains, “LOVE this jumpsuit. SO comfortable. So versatile. Great outfit on a hot day!” You can choose between two colors and sizes XS-XL.

 

 

Shop Sizes XS-XL: Toad&Co | Backcountry

 

Toad&Co Sunkissed Livvy Jumpsuit

 

Be ready for anything in this comfortable Toad&Co jumpsuit. The shirt detailing adds a touch of formality with the ribbon, while the tapered legs keep you cool and breezy on even the hottest of days. Made from a majority recycled polyester and waterless dye for all prints, not all goddesses wear togas, but they all wear Eco Kohilo. Plus its UPF 50+ too.

One review shares, “So comfy! I am just about to have every Sunkissed variety in my closet because the fabric is so lightweight and breathable, its just perfect for these crazy hot summers. About to buy another jumper in a different color!” Choose from three colors and sizes XS-XL.

 

Suss out this alternate list of cute rompers!

 

 

Best UPF Sun Cover Ups

 

 

Shop Sizes XS-3XL: LL Bean

 

LL Bean Sand Beach Cover-Up Hooded Tunic UPF Shirt

 

LL Bean sun protective clothing protects even the fairest of skin, and these sunblock shirts are designed with a whopping UPF 50+, you can go all day, which makes this oversized shirt great for beach trips or hikes in the heat.

The pink color of these sun shirts is lovely and it has a tummy control effect  too. Women love it, because of its quality fabric its wrinkle-free and no shrinking and its available in plus sizes 1X-3X!

 

 

Shop Sizes XXS-3X: Amazon

 

Coolibar Catalina UV Hoodie

 

Coolibar makes some of the best sunblock clothing and you’ll be beach ready in the Catalina UPF 50+ hoodie. Put on over your swimsuit and be assured of the lightweight feel, cooling effect on your skin, and be confident that you’re well protected with zinc oxide woven into the fabric. 

One happy user says, “This is a cute, well made coverup that works well in bright sunlight to protect from the sun. The cotton is very soft and smooth, excellent quality.”

The flattering V-neck that has an adjustable drawcord and overall relaxed fit make this a packable, easy choice for poolside or an ocean adventure! This also comes in other summer inspired designs and in sizes XXS-3X.

 

 

Best UPF Accessories

 

 

Shop: Amazon

 

Wallaroo Hat Company Victoria Kristy Sun Hat

 

TFG readers rave about the Wallaroo Victoria Kristy hat. It’s cute, incredibly versatile, and offers more than just shade, but an effective UPF 50+ that’s woven into the straw. Just use the drawstring closure to fit it to your head and away you go!

One traveler shares, “It’s amazing. I wadded it up every day and stuffed it in my purse or backpack and it came out perfect every time. I used it for a month in Europe. I loved it so much I’m planning to get a few different styles and colors.”

Speaking of colors, this sun hat has a slew of them to choose from, perfect for your personal style!

 

Get more coverage with these best sun hats!

 

 

Shop: Amazon

 

Lanzom Panama Wide Brim Sun Hat

 

If you want a bit of extra brim with your sun protection, the Lanzom Straw Panama hat is a sound choice, due to the extra-wide brim. And if you need to alter the size, use the adjustable band so it can fit a larger head. UPF 50+ keeps the sun at bay while you’ll look elegant yet feel comfy because of the lightweight, breathable material. 

You can pick from 29 colors to fit your style. Plus, it’s packable with one user sharing, “I’ve had it packed in my suitcase for over a month now. When I took it out the other day to rearrange things it didn’t lose its shape!”

 

 

Shop: Amazon | Coolibar

 

Coolibar Sanibel Sunscreen Shawl

 

Wear it as a shawl or as a scarf, Coolibar Sanibel neck cover ups are a versatile addition to a travel wardrobe. With UPF 50+ and breathable, moisture-wicking technology you can remain covered and cool. The wrap comes with Cooltect technology and antimicrobial protection that prevents the growth of bacteria to help eliminate odors.

Drape it over your shoulders—pashmina style—wear it as a scarf, or as a headwrap. Users like how it’s easy to change the style, and one shares, “Works great! Blocks the sun and it’s not heavy or thick, and easy to pack.”

 

 

Protective Sun Clothing Comparison Chart

 

 

 

Can You Get Sunburnt Through Clothes?

 

All clothes offer some level of protection from the sun, but yes, it is possible to be sunburnt through clothes that are not UPF treated. 

Most clothing offers an SPF protection level of between 4-7, but if you’re going to be in the sun for a long day of sightseeing, this won’t be good enough to protect you. The tightness of the weave of a fabric and the color make a difference in how UV safe it is. Anything less than UPF of 15 isn’t marked as UV protective clothing. 

 

 

What Is the Best Sun Protection Clothing?

 

Look for clothes that have a higher level of UPF rating, like the ones described in this article. Long sleeves and pants will cover you better than sunscreen, which we can all forget to reapply. 

Also, as crazy as it seems, but darker colors also work best, debunking the myth that “wearing black makes you hotter”. While it’s true if you’re stationary, if you’re moving around, the dark fabric absorbs the sun’s rays, whereas lighter colored fabrics reflect the rays back at your body.

 

 

What’s the Difference Between SPF Clothes and UPF Clothes?  

 

“SPF clothes” is a term mainly used to describe the effectiveness of sunscreens and not clothing. A sunscreen with a factor of 15 allows you to stay in the sun 15 times longer than you would normally before reapplying. SPFs cover UVB rays, and some market as protection from UVA as well, but an SPF doesn’t cover this. 

The UPF system was designed to rate UV protective fabric, so a shirt with a UPF level of 50 blocks out 49/50 of the UVA and UVB rays (approximately 98%).

Sometimes you will still see ratings for SPF shirts or clothing, as companies can still choose to describe their products in this way.

 

 

Compass Rose Packing Cubes

 

How to Pack Sun Protection Wear

 

If you’re planning a summer getaway and want to take any UV protection clothes, start with packing cubes, they will seriously change the way you pack! We designed our own brand of slim packing cubes, with a unique color and numbering system, so it’s easy to remember where you’ve packed everything. See more in the video below.

 

Learn our hacks with packing cubes in the video above!

 

We also put together a five-part YouTube series showing the different methods to use packing cubes for travel. If you use this specific packing strategy, packing cubes can also compress your belongings. This method has helped many travel carry-on only!

 

 

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What do you think is the best UV sun protection clothing? Share your picks below!

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For more sun protection tips, please read:

• The Best Sun Hats for Women According to Our Readers
• 13 Best Sports Sunglasses for Women to Enhance Any Athletic Activity
• The 10 Best Face Sunscreens for Travel
• Benefits of Polarized Sunglasses for Women Plus 10 Stylish Shades

 

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