All products and listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, we may receive compensation from retailers and/or from purchases of products through these links.
No matter where your summer plans take you—beach resort, lake cabin, desert road trip—protecting your skin from the sun is as essential as remembering your passport. While sunscreen plays a big role, UPF clothing offers a powerful layer of defense against UV rays, especially on long days outside or when you’re in and out of the water. To round out your warm-weather packing list, I’ve tested a wide range of sun-protective pieces, from breezy pants and packable jackets to swimsuits, dresses, and wide-brim hats. These items aren’t just practical, they're also stylish, breathable, and designed to move with you, whether you're hiking through a national park or lounging poolside with a good book. With UPF protection built directly into the fabric, they make sun safety feel effortless and travel wardrobe-friendly.
Below, find 15 top picks for every kind of trip and traveler, along with a few basics about how UPF clothing works—and why you’ll want to wear it.
FAQ:
What is UPF clothing?
UPF stands for ultraviolet protection factor, and clothing with this label is specially designed to block harmful UV rays from reaching your skin. Most UPF garments are made from tightly woven synthetic fibers like polyester or nylon, and some are treated with UV-absorbing coatings or made with zinc-infused threads for added protection.
Should I wear UPF clothing and swimwear?
Yes. UPF clothing is beneficial for everyone, especially if you're spending long hours outdoors. It’s particularly helpful for travelers, kids, those with fair or sensitive skin, or anyone who wants an extra layer of protection beyond sunscreen.
How much protection does it actually provide?
UPF 50+ is considered the gold standard and blocks about 98% of of UVA and UVB rays. Even UPF 25 blocks 96%, offering a significant reduction in UV exposure compared to regular clothing.
Do I still need sunscreen if I wear UPF clothing?
Yes. While UPF clothing protects the areas it covers, you’ll still need broad-spectrum sunscreen on exposed skin: think face, neck, hands, feet, and anywhere not shielded by fabric.
The best UPF tops and jackets
Lands' End
UPF 50 windbreaker jacket
UPF 50
This lightweight, water-resistant windbreaker is the type of versatile travel layer you’ll be glad you packed. It offers UPF 50 sun protection along with a full-zip front, hood, and elastic cuffs to help block wind and light rain. The real bonus? It folds into its own pocket for easy packing, making it perfect for hiking, sightseeing, or breezy beach days.
Cotopaxi
Sombra sun hoodie
UPF 50+
Made with recycled materials, this sun hoodie is both sustainable and functional, offering UPF 50+ protection in a featherlight, breathable design. Its quick-drying and moisture-wicking fabric is great for long hikes, paddleboarding, or layering over a swimsuit. Thumbholes and a scuba-style hood add extra coverage, and it comes in several fun color-blocked options that feel more sporty than standard.
Duluth Trading Company
Sol Survivor sun protection popover
UPF 50
This sun shirt pulls double duty as a protective travel layer and a casual top, thanks to its breathable, stretchy UPF 50 fabric and easygoing silhouette. The popover style features a zip collar for adjustable ventilation, along with a hidden zip pocket for stashing keys or a card. It’s a smart pick for long travel days when you want comfort, sun protection, and just a little bit of structure.
Lands' End
SunShade UPF 50 rash guard top
UPF 50
More elevated than your average rash guard, this elbow-sleeve version works just as well for swimming as it does for walking along the boardwalk or grabbing lunch post-beach (I often wear this as a shirt). The UPF 50 fabric blocks 98% of harmful UV rays, and the slightly looser fit offers more coverage without clinging. It’s available in solids and prints and looks great paired with high-waisted swim bottoms or shorts.
The best UPF bottoms
Coolibar
Lynsu wide-leg pants
UPF 50
I don’t like to play favorites, but Coolibar is definitely my go-to brand when it comes to stylish UPF clothing. These wide-leg pants look polished enough for dinner but are made with Coolibar’s signature UPF 50 fabric that’s lightweight, breathable, and silky-soft. The elastic waistband and flowy fit keep things comfortable for travel days or beach strolls, and they pair well with everything from sandals to sneakers. These are an easy pick for anyone looking to cover up without overheating.
Pinspark
Wide-leg yoga pants
UPF 50+
These wide leg yoga pants combine comfort with sun protection, thanks to a soft, polyester and spandex blend that offers UPF 50+ coverage. The wide waistband and adjustable drawstring keep them secure on the go, and the lightweight feel makes them ideal for travel days, casual hikes, or early morning beach walks. The back pockets add a casual touch for moving quickly from a yoga sesh to brunch date.
Carve Designs
Bali short
UPF 50+
These lightweight, quick-dry odor-resistant shorts are made with recycled polyester and offer UPF 50 protection, perfect for everything from paddleboarding to lounging at the beach bar. A three-inch inseam, mid-rise cut, and wide elastic waistband give them a flattering fit, while the relaxed leg adds comfort for all-day wear. They're a go-to for active days on or near the water.
L.L.Bean
Tropicwear comfort shorts
UPF 50+
These quick-drying shorts are made for adventure, with a lightweight, moisture-wicking fabric that offers UPF 50 protection. Designed for the adventurer, the shorts have a five-inch inseam, featuring plenty of stretch, an elastic-back waistband for comfort, and secure pockets for stashing keys or cards. They're ideal for fishing, hikes, kayaking, or tossing over a swimsuit for cocktails by the water.
The best UPF dresses
Coolibar
South Cove ruffle dress
UPF 50+
This breezy, feminine dress is proof that sun protection can still be elevated. Designed with Coolibar’s soft, featherlight fabric and built-in UPF 50, the above-knee dress is ideal for beach towns and resort wear. The ruffled tiers, playful V-neck, and ruched waist offer a flattering shape without sacrificing comfort.
Athleta
Avenue romper
UPF 40
I’m a sucker for rompers. With a breezy fit and a polished silhouette, this one makes sun-safe dressing feel effortless. Made from recycled polyester and spandex, it offers UPF 40 protection and features a smocked waist, button down front, and roomy pockets, making it ideal for packing light. Wear it with sneakers for a pickleball outing or dress it up with sandals for dinner by the water.
Columbia Sportswear
PFG Open Water short overalls
UPF 50
These sporty short overalls are designed for days on the water, whether you’re fishing, kayaking, or simply enjoying the sun. Made from quick-drying, water-repellent fabric with UPF 50 protection, they feature a relaxed fit with adjustable straps, multiple pockets, and just enough stretch for comfort and mobility. They layer easily over a swimsuit and are great for active summer travel.
Free Fly Apparel
Breeze dress
UPF 50
This lightweight, quick-dry dress is made for hot days that call for a full itinerary. Known for being breathable, moisture-wicking, and ultra-soft, this dress is the kind of easygoing piece you’ll reach for after a swim, on a boat, or when heading straight from the beach to lunch. With two pockets and an extra hidden zipper pocket, you can keep all your essentials within reach. It also packs down small, making it ideal for carry-on travel.
The best UPF swimwear
Lands' End
Tugless scallop swim dress
UPF 50
I’m not typically a fan of the swim dress, but I love that this one truly looks like a cute, summery mini dress. The scalloped bottom and floral skirt drew me in. When it comes to swimwear, though, this one-piece offers a bit more coverage without sacrificing mobility or style. It features UPF 50 sun protection and a sleek, A-line silhouette that’s comfortable for swimming or strolling along the shore. With built-in soft bra cups, it’s a great pick for travelers who want support and ease in one.
Garnet Hill
Shoreline halter one-piece swimsuit
UPF 50+
With a flattering halter neckline and ruched detailing, this suit combines style with sun safety. The fabric offers UPF 50+ protection and full coverage without feeling restrictive, and it comes in a mix of solids and prints. A supportive shelf bra and removable soft cups make it a comfortable option for both pool lounging and ocean dips.
The best UPF hat
UPF 50+
This wide-brim straw hat doesn’t just make a statement, it also blocks out the sun with UPF 50+ protection. The lined underbrim helps reduce glare, while the adjustable drawstring keeps it secure on breezy beach days. It’s lightweight, breathable, and with over 30 prints to choose from, adds a little personality to your poolside look.
This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date.
