Are national parks still open? Recent layoff news shouldn't stop you from visiting.
National Park Week begins April 19 with an invitation to celebrate national parks in person, for free.
'Find a national park and come visit!' the annual event's webpage encourages, pointing to the 433 'parks' across the National Park System, including national battlefields, monuments and seashores – not just places with National Park in their name like Great Smoky Mountains or Yosemite.
April 19 is one of five remaining free-entry dates this year. However, cost isn't the only factor travelers are considering for their upcoming national park trips.
Prospective visitors, along with park proponents, are concerned about what the parks and experiences may look like after the sweeping layoffs across the National Park Service and the larger federal government in February.
Here's what travelers planning national park trips should know:
No special passes are needed for free park entry on April 19, the first day of National Park Week. Just show up.
At other times of year, certain groups are eligible for free admission:
◾U.S. military service members and their dependents, U.S. veterans and Gold Star families.
◾U.S. citizens or permanent residents with disabilities.
◾Fourth graders and family members traveling with them.
◾Volunteers who've spent at least 250 hours volunteering at federal recreation sites.
Not all parks charge entry fees, which go back to the park. Those top out at $35.
Yes.
"National Park Week is a great time to visit one of the country's 430+ national parks," an NPS spokesperson told USA TODAY by email. "It also is an opportune time to plan summer vacations or other excursions to national parks this year."
Jason Rano, vice president, Government Affairs at the RV Industry Association, said if people stop visiting, "That's money that's not going back to the park and the Park Service ... and for our customers and our industry, that's a big concern. And it's not just us. There are gateway communities that serve as important networks to these places that largely thrive or don't on park visitation."
Rano, who previously worked in Government Relations for the National Park Foundation, the official charitable partner of the National Park Service, added: 'RVs need campgrounds. So even if they're not using a public campground in a national park or national forest, they may be using a private RV park and campground in the gateway community and going to the cafes and going to the bookstores and things like that, so there's a real potential economic hit to these largely rural gateway communities as well."
Elizabeth Silkes, CEO of Grand Canyon Conservancy, the official nonprofit partner of Grand Canyon National Park, echoed that sentiment and encouraged visits.
'It's a perfect time to visit national parks, to show your support for public lands in this country and our shared appreciation for the stories they share,' she said. 'This is a moment to lean into what time spent in nature provides us, and it's also a moment for a new kind of questioning when we are in these spaces: What is our role in protecting them? What can we do to better amplify their needs?'
No.
Interior Secretary Doug Burgum issued a secretarial order on April 3 to ensure all national parks 'remain open and accessible for the benefit and enjoyment of the American people and to ensure that the National Park Service will provide the best customer service experience for all visitors.'
"The National Park Service is focused on every visitor having meaningful opportunities to explore and connect with the incredible, iconic spaces of national parks," the Park Service told USA TODAY.
The secretary's order pledges to uphold the hours posted on the National Park Service's website and review 'any closures or reductions to operating hours, seasons, or any visitor services' beforehand at top levels.
The order also says: 'The (interior) Department shall take action to ensure that NPS is properly staffed to support the operating hours and needs of each park unit.'
Budget cuts and bathrooms: An ongoing struggle at US national parks
According to the nonprofit National Parks Conservation Association, all 1,000 of the probationary National Park Service employees terminated in February were allowed to be reinstated in March, after court orders determined their firings were illegal.
Additionally, despite a hiring freeze ordered by President Donald Trump on his first day in office, the National Park Service was approved in February to hire thousands of seasonal workers, as it does each year.
While some uncertainty remains about the stability of some positions, multiple park advocates and experts have told USA TODAY one thing is clear: the National Park Service was already understaffed before all this.
'For a long time actually, the park staff have been stretched quite thin,' Silkes said.
Story continues below.
To illustrate this point, Robert Manning, professor emeritus of Environment and Natural Resources at the University of Vermont, broke it down by numbers:
The National Park Service manages 433 units, spanning more than 85 million acres. Last year, they welcomed a record 331.8 million visitors, according to National Park Service data, all with roughly 20,000 employees.
For perspective, he compared that to Walt Disney World, which has roughly 80,000 cast members. 'But the responsibilities of the National Park Service go well beyond an organization like Disney World,' he said.
Manning specialized in national parks and has written several books about them, most recently co-authoring 'Conversations About Visiting and Managing the National Parks: Crowdsourcing America's Best Idea.'
If visitors find fewer rangers available in a park or longer lines for help, Rano asks for patience.
'The folks that work at NPS, at Forest Service, at these other land management agencies are there because they care, and they want people to have the best experience possible,' he said. 'If you're headed out, we hope you have an awesome, awesome time, but be prepared for unknowns and have patience with the folks that you're encountering because I know generally, to a person, they are doing their best.'
Planning is always important, but park advocates say it's especially important now.
◾The National Park Service's website offers a wealth of tips to 'plan like a park ranger,' as well as details on each park and any applicable reservation requirements. Visitors will also find up-to-date weather alerts and closure advisories.
◾Visitors can use the free National Park Service app to download park-specific information and maps before their visit, in case they lose cell reception in the parks.
◾Guidebooks are another resource visitors can carry along.
'It may be that visitors are a little bit more on their own this year, and that can be frightening a little bit, I think, to visitors,' Manning said. 'It's frightening to the welfare of the parks as well, because we need well-informed visitors when they get to the parks.'
He and others stressed the importance of personal safety and practicing Leave No Trace principles to help protect the parks.
'I think this is a moment where we have realized the fragility, in many ways, of our public lands, and if we can lean into that feeling that many of us have had about how important it is to protect them, if that is infused in our visits and our planning for visits, perhaps that prompts a new way of looking at all we see in the parks,' Silkes said, encouraging visitors to also thank park rangers.
She said visitors who want to do more to show their support can donate to friends association groups and parks conservancies, volunteer and write to lawmakers.
'This country works best when everyone shares their perspective and what they feel most strongly about with their representatives,' she said. 'It's important to recognize how important these places are, not only in this moment, but in protecting them long into the future.'
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: National parks still want you to visit. What to know before you go.

Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Yahoo
6 hours ago
- Yahoo
These are 7 of the most treasured views in Wisconsin. Here's how to find them
Wisconsin is home to countless scenic destinations. By the numbers, there are 50 state parks, 15 state forests and more than 15,000 lakes, according to the state Department of Natural Resources. Not only that, but Wisconsin has islands, lighthouses, unique architecture and more. Though it may seem impossible to narrow down, we've put together a list of Wisconsin's top seven must-see spots. This is part of a new USA TODAY network project showcasing breathtaking -- and perhaps, underappreciated -- views throughout the United States. These are some of the most beautiful landmarks, scenic vistas and hidden gems you can truly treasure in your area. [ Most Treasured Views in America: National | West | South | Middle America | Northeast ] Whether you're a resident or simply planning your next adventure, these are some of the most treasured views Wisconsin has to offer. The Apostle Islands National Lakeshore boast a 12-mile Lake Superior shoreline and nearly two dozen islands. It's also home to the largest collection of lighthouses in the national parks system. In short, it's every outdoor-lovers dream. The Islands are also have deep connections to Ojibwe culture. Things to do at the Apostle Islands: Kayaking: Take your own kayak or book a guided tour with an authorized kayak outfitter to explore the islands and mainland caves. Hiking: Hikers have plenty of options; you can walk the mainland trail or trails on 12 islands. Camping: You can camp on 18 of the 21 islands, as well as the mainland. Do you have to pay to see the Apostle Islands? There aren't any entrance fees, but you may have to pay for parking and certain activities. What is the closest city to the Apostle Islands? The closest city to the Islands is Bayfield. Details on the Apostle Islands: The national lakeshore is on the northern portion of the Bayfield Peninsula. The site was the recipient of an "Accessibility Excellence" award in 2017. There are various accessible activities, including campsites and viewpoints. Overall, the Apostle Islands are pet-friendly. Just make sure you keep your furry friend on a leash in most places, though there are some other rules to be aware of, too. For more information on the Apostle Islands, you can call 1-888-722-6657 or visit the NPS website. More: This Wisconsin destination was named one of the best places to travel in 2025 More: Summer at Lake Superior's Apostle Islands threatened by federal workforce cuts, tourism boards warn Crowned Wisconsin's most visited state park in 2024 and 2023, Devil's Lake State Park is basically synonymous with Wisconsin. It's not a shock that the park sees around 2.5 million visitors annually. It's one of the prettiest places in the state. Whether you want to hike the bluffs — which are part of one of the most ancient rock outcrops in North America — or just take in the views, Devil's Lake has something for everyone. Things to do at Devil's Lake State Park: Hiking: There are 29 miles of trails for hiking enthusiasts to enjoy, including 1.5 miles of accessible trails. Picnic areas: Not a hiking fan but still want to take in the views? Both sides of the lake have reservable picnic spots and shelters. Camping: Devil's Lake has more than 400 campsites across the park. Do you have to pay to see Devil's Lake State Park? Yes. You need a vehicle admissions pass to visit Devil's Lake, which is required for all Wisconsin state parks. Prices vary, but a 12-month pass for a vehicle with Wisconsin license plates is $28 and a daily pass is $13. What is the closest city to Devil's Lake State Park? The closest city is Baraboo. Details on Devil's Lake State Park: Devil's Lake is at S5975 Park Road, Baraboo. You can rent a campsite, stay at a local hotel or rental property, or even check out the nearby Wisconsin Dells. The park has several accessibility options, including picnic sites and binocular viewers. There are also accessible walking paths and a beach access mat. While the park is pet-friendly, make sure your furry friend stays on a leash at all times. You can check out the DNR's website for more rules on bringing your pet. For more information on Devil's Lake State Park, you can call 1-608-356-8301 or visit the DNR website. More: This was the most popular Wisconsin state park in 2024 More: Thousands of people visit Devil's Lake on summer Saturdays. Here's how to avoid a line. The Hoan Bridge is a Milwaukee icon. Originally built in 1977 in honor of former Milwaukee Mayor Daniel Hoan, the bridge supports countless Milwaukeeans commuting to and from downtown each day. It's known for its bright yellow tied-arch design and light displays that illuminate the west side of the bridge each night. The Hoan is about to get even brighter, too. Nonprofit Light the Hoan announced in April that the installation of lights on the harbor-facing side of the bridge would begin that month, with construction wrapping up in June. Things to do at the Hoan Bridge: See the lights: Probably self-explanatory. The Hoan is lit up every night, but you should keep an eye out for special displays on certain holidays and events throughout the year. Hoancoming Festival: The organizers behind the Hoan's lights host an annual fundraiser each year featuring a boat parade, DJs, a kayak crawl and more. This year's iteration has not been announced yet, but it was last held in August 2024. Do you have to pay to see the Hoan Bridge? No. There is no toll on the bridge. Details on The Hoan Bridge: The Hoan doesn't have its own website or phone number, but you can find out more information about the bridge on Light the Hoan's website. More: The history of Milwaukee's Hoan Bridge More: Who decides the lighting theme for Milwaukee's Hoan Bridge? Wyalusing State Park wows visitors with its spectacular views of the confluence of the Mississippi and Wisconsin rivers from 500-foot bluff-top lookouts. Whether you want to camp, hike or do one of the many water activities available, this spot has it all. Plus, it's one of the oldest state parks in Wisconsin. Things to do at Wyalusing State Park: Boating: Boating enthusiasts can rent from local businesses — or bring their own — and use the park's ramp to get their adventure started. Fishing: The Mississippi River is home to plenty of fish, including bass and walleye. There is an accessible fishing pier at its boat landing. Canoeing: Explore six miles of the Mississippi River's backwaters along a canoe trail. Do you have to pay to see the Mississippi River at Wyalusing State Park? Yes. You need a vehicle admissions pass to visit Wyalusing State Park, which is required for all Wisconsin state parks and forests. Prices vary, but a 12-month pass for a vehicle with Wisconsin license plates is $28 and a daily pass is $13. What is the closest city to the Mississippi River at Wyalusing State Park? The closest city is Bagley. Details on the Mississippi River at Wyalusing State Park: Nestled near the Wisconsin-Iowa border, Wyalusing State Park is located at 13081 State Park Lane, Bagley. You can reserve a campsite or book a stay at nearby hotels or rental properties. The park has a an accessible campsite and fishing pier. While the park is pet-friendly, make sure your furry friend stays on a leash at all times. You can check out the DNR's website for more rules on bringing your pet. For more information on Wyalusing State Park, you can call 1-608-996-2261 or visit the DNR website. More: Where does the Mississippi River start, where is it deepest, answers to key questions about one of Wisconsin's most important waterways More: The upper Mississippi River is vital to Wisconsin. I'm excited to keep telling its story. Wisconsin has no shortage of lakes. One of the prettiest, however, is Geneva Lake. Nestled in the southeastern portion of the state, the 5,401-acre lake is surrounded by beautiful scenery, including a state park — and even has a museum on its shoreline that's only accessible by boat. On top of its stunning views, there are a variety of activities in and out of the water. You can spend a day hiking the 23-mile path around the lake. Or take a day trip to Big Foot Beach State Park. Things to do at Geneva Lake: Do a beach day: What better way to take in the stunning views Geneva Lake has to offer than on one of its six beaches? Visit Black Point Estate and Gardens: Tour Chicago beer baron Conrad Seipp's summer home. The Wisconsin historic site, which is also one of the oldest homes in Lake Geneva, is only accessible by boat. Fishing: Geneva Lake has a variety of fish for enthusiasts of any skill level to catch, including trout, walleye and smallmouth bass. Do you have to pay to see Geneva Lake? No, the lake is free to view. You may need to pay for parking or certain activities, though, including access to Riviera Beach ($10 for people age 7 and older) in downtown Lake Geneva. The state park also requires a vehicle admission pass. Details on Geneva Lake: Check out lodging options in surrounding Lake Geneva, Williams Bay and Fontana-On-Geneva Lake. For more information on Geneva Lake, you can call the DNR at 1-888-936-7463 or visit its website. More: Hiking the 23-mile shore path around Geneva Lake Cana Island Lighthouse is a Door County gem. The lighthouse — with an 89-foot tower made of cream city bricks — has stood for more than 150 years. It's still in a good enough condition that visitors can climb its staircase to look at the lake. Aside from the scenery, getting to Cana Island is an adventure in itself. You can walk across a rocky causeway or take a complimentary wagon ride. But Lake Michigan water levels can occasionally block the causeway. Things to do at the Cana Island Lighthouse: Climb the tower: Just 97 steps separate you from the "sweeping panoramic" view of Lake Michigan and the Door County peninsula. Explore the grounds: The lighthouse isn't the only special view Cana Island has to offer. Take one of the footpaths around the island to admire the Lake Michigan shoreline. Dive: Feeling adventurous? Diving enthusiasts can check out the wreck of the Frank O'Connor, which sunk in 1919, just off the island. Buy a photo: Purchase select prints of the Cana Island Lighthouse and other treasured views Do you have to pay to see the Cana Island Lighthouse? Yes, there is a fee to get on Cana Island. Tickets ($12 for adults, $10 for veterans, seniors and children ages 5 to 17) include admission to the lighthouse. What is the closest city to the Cana Island Lighthouse? The closest city is Baileys Harbor. Details on Cana Island Lighthouse: The lighthouse can be found at 800 E. Cana Island Road. It is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily from May to October. Leashed pets are allowed on the island, according to a 2023 Facebook post. For more information on the Cana Island Lighthouse, you can call Door County officials at (920) 743-5511 or visit the county website. More: 8 spectacular Lake Michigan lighthouses to visit in Wisconsin More: The Cana Island Lighthouse in Door County via drone Green Bay's Lambeau Field is arguably the heart of Wisconsin sports. Home to the Green Bay Packers — and the 2025 NFL Draft — the stadium is the second largest in the NFL. Named after Packers founder Earl "Curly" Lambeau, Lambeau Field can hold more than 81,000 fans. It also is home to a 376,000-square foot atrium, which houses restaurants, the Green Bay Packers Hall of Fame and more. Things to do at Lambeau Field: Catch a Packers game: Need we say more? Stadium tour: There are several options that allow fans to explore the iconic stadium, including premium seating and field access. Packers Hall of Fame: If you're not feeling a whole stadium tour, you can check out the Packers' 15,000-square-foot Hall of Fame. Do you have to pay to see Lambeau Field? Yes, if you want to get inside the stadium. You can visit the stadium's website for admission and parking information. Details on Lambeau Field: The Packers' home is at 1265 Lombardi Ave., Green Bay. Lambeau is not pet-friendly, but service animals are always welcome. There are also a number of accessibility accommodations throughout the stadium. For more information on Lambeau Field, call (920) 569-7500 or visit its website. More: A historical look at Lambeau Field and City Stadium, home of the Green Bay Packers More: Where is 2025 NFL draft? Everything to know about host site Lambeau Field in Green Bay This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Summer trips in Wisconsin: 7 day trips with stunning views


USA Today
a day ago
- USA Today
Want a free $50 Costco Shop Card? Join now with this last-chance Groupon deal
Want a free $50 Costco Shop Card? Join now with this last-chance Groupon deal Sign up for a one-year Gold Star or Executive Costco membership on Groupon and get a free Costco Shop Card, plus more! If you've ever considered joining Costco, now's the perfect time to make it official. From exclusive savings on groceries, household essentials, gas, and travel, a Costco membership pays for itself and then some. And yes, the legendary $1.50 hot dog and soda combo is still going strong after 40+ years (and we're hoping for 40 more!). Here's the summer deal we're loving right now: Groupon is offering a limited-time Costco membership bundle that includes a free $50 Costco Shop Card when you sign up for either the Gold Star or Executive membership tiers. Go for the Executive tier and you'll also get travel perks and an extra $100 off a $200+ order at At USA TODAY Shopping, we're always on the hunt for the best deals, and this one's a true fan-favorite. Whether you're stocking up for summer or planning your next road trip, this Costco offer delivers serious value. Get a free Costco Shop Card on Groupon What does Groupon's Costco membership deal include? Now through Sunday, June 22, you can get an annual Gold Star Costco membership on Groupon for $65 and receive a $50 free digital Costco Shop Card to use on future purchases at any Costco location or online. 1-year Gold Star Costco membership Includes access to exclusive member-only savings $50 Digital Costco Shop Card : Valid in-store and online : Valid in-store and online $200 Digital Costco Shop Card : With purchase of a Mexico or Caribbean vacation package ($3,500 or more) through Costco Travel Book by September 2, 2025 , for travel by December 31, 2025 : With purchase of a Mexico or Caribbean vacation package ($3,500 or more) through Costco Travel 1-year Executive Costco membership You can also get the Costco Executive Membership Package for $130 and receive the same $50 Costco Shop Card and $200 Digital Costco Shop Card for Costco Travel, PLUS an additional perk of $100 off a order of $200 or more! The special Groupon offer is valid for new members or previous Costco cardholders whose membership has been expired for at least 18 months. Want more deals? Check out other offers at Groupon. What's the difference between a Costco Gold Star membership and Executive membership? Gold Star Membership: Best for casual shoppers The $65 Gold Star Membership is a better option for individuals or families who shop at Costco on an occasional basis or do not require the additional benefits of the Executive Membership. With a lower annual fee, this membership includes access to Costco's wide range of products and services, making it a cost-effective choice for those who do not have substantial spending at Costco each year. Benefits: Warehouse access Costco Fuel access Free household card Access to Costco services including: auto and home insurance, Costco Auto Program, pet insurance as well as bottled water delivery Get a free $50 Costco Shop Card Executive Membership: Best for frequent shoppers The $130 Executive Membership is ideal for frequent Costco shoppers, offering a 2% annual reward and additional benefits. For those who spend more than $3,000 annually at Costco, the Executive Membership includes major savings through exclusive discounts and promotions. The higher annual fee is counterbalanced by the rewards and benefits, making it a practical option for regular Costco customers. Benefits: All benefits of Gold Star Annual 2% reward on qualified purchases Free household card Access to Costco services with discounts on select services Get a free $50 Costco Shop Card New tariffs could spike gas prices: Get fuel discounts from Walmart, Sam's Club, Costco How do you claim your Costco membership through Groupon? After you complete your purchase on Groupon's website, you'll receive an email from Costco confirming your membership details. Groupon says to allow up to two hours to receive your confirmation email. Your Costco Shop Card will be emailed within two weeks after sign-up to qualifying members. A physical membership card is not required to shop online or receive your included gift card. To receive a physical membership card, visit the membership counter at your preferred Costco location. ➤Pro-tip: Remember to bring a photo ID with a copy of your Costco or Groupon confirmation email. Does Costco still have the $1.50 hot dog deal? The famous $1.50 Costco hot dog has been available in Costco food courts since 1984. The price has never increased and Costco's CFO assured customers that the price would not be impacted by inflation. Can you shop at Costco without a membership? You can't shop at Costco without a Costco membership. According to Costco, non-Costco members can purchase prescriptions at a Costco pharmacy and if they were given a Costco Shop Card as a gift, they can use that to visit Costco locations.
%3Amax_bytes(150000)%3Astrip_icc()%2Ftl-travel-friendly-reef-safe-sunscreens-tout-d4ce142034f64c1184a934740f69554d.jpg&w=3840&q=100)

Travel + Leisure
a day ago
- Travel + Leisure
I've Been Diving for 22 Years—These Are the 8 Best Reef-safe Sunscreens I've Tried
I was 13 the first time I saw a coral reef. The endless blue of the ocean gave way to an explosion of color unlike anything I'd seen before. Colorful schools of fish moved around vibrant corals while the sun shone through, glittering like a stained glass window set aflame by the sun. In the 22 years since that moment, I've been fortunate enough to go snorkeling and diving all over the world, from the cold waters of Jeju Island in Korea to the warmth of the Indian Ocean in Seychelles and numerous places in the Caribbean. Although coral reefs are still magical, there is an uncomfortable truth anyone who knows the ocean has to painfully acknowledge: Corals are dying. According to the National Park Service, swimmers leech an estimated 4,000 to 6,000 tons of sunscreen into the ocean every year, and sunscreen has been linked to coral bleaching—a phenomenon wherein coral loses its vibrant pigment and turns white over time, becoming weak and susceptible to starvation and death. It's been a long time since I've seen a truly thriving reef; even the one I visited in middle school is mostly bleached now. Though we may not individually have the power to reverse climate change, there are smaller—albeit very significant—actions that we can take, like switching to reef-safe sunscreens. Since terms like 'reef-safe' are unregulated, consumers should look out for specific ingredients when choosing an eco-conscious sunscreen, especially oxybenzone and octinoxate. Now banned in places like Hawaii, Mexico, and Aruba, these ingredients aren't just harmful for marine life, but have also been linked to hormone disruption in humans. Other toxic ingredients to avoid include non-nano-sized zinc or titanium, parabens, and triclosan. To keep coral reefs as healthy as possible while diving, I've tested out several reef-safe sunscreens. Keep scrolling for eight travel-friendly, reef-safe sunscreens I recommend that are perfectly sized for stowing in your carry-on luggage. Thrive's Mineral Face SPF is the only reef-safe facial sunscreen I found that was able to replace my regular one. The formula states that it's made for sensitive skin, and it delivers on its promise. It's lightweight and soothing for my rosacea and acne-prone face. It also leaves no white cast. As a bonus, all Thrive products are plastic negative, meaning that the company recovers more plastic from the ocean than it uses to package its products. My only qualm with it is that the SPF is lower than I would like, and that the body sunscreen is too large to pack in a carry-on. Since it costs nearly $30 for 2 ounces, I wouldn't use this product when I'm at the beach and need to reapply sunscreen around the clock. Instead, I'd use this for daily life and SPF touch-ups, and opt for longer-lasting options when I plan to be outside in the sun all day. It's important to remember that using reef-safe sunscreen is still important for protecting aquatic environments, even if you're not near the ocean—harmful chemicals from non-reef-safe sunscreens can seep into local water sources when you shower. SurfDurt Mineral SPF is now one of my favorite facial sunscreens, especially because of its impressively short list of 10 ingredients, including organic cocoa butter, organic coconut oil, and natural iron oxide pigment. There is nothing on the list that I don't recognize, so I feel comfortable diving while wearing it, knowing I'm not harming the very reefs that I'm swimming next to. I've also found that this product is perfect for kids. My three-year-old niece, who usually hates putting on sunscreen, loves it so much to the point where I have to tell her to save some for later. Since it's not a messy, runny liquid, she's able to put it on herself, making the SPF application process feel more like a game than an annoying pre-pool requirement. Since I have mixed skin, this sunscreen is a bit too greasy for me to use every day. But when I made my brother, another sunscreen hater, try it, he said that it worked well for his dry skin. I love that you don't have to ever worry about the sunscreen spilling all over your suitcase or purse, and that you can reuse the cool bamboo and tin packaging to pack things like jewelry and pills once you're run out of product. If you've never used tin sunscreen before, try it out for yourself; you'll probably end up appreciating how nice and smooth it feels without leaving your hands gooey or greasy. Hawaiian-based Kokua Sun Care contains natural, locally-grown ingredients like spirulina, noni, flower extracts, and seed oils; however, its formula also includes chemical ingredients. Despite being the most expensive sunscreen on the list, its texture isn't very smooth, so you'll have to thoroughly rub it in. That said, it has a high SPF, and it doesn't leave a white cast or have a strong smell, which are two factors that I believe justify the high price. For the packaging, the company uses bio-based sugar cane that is chemically identical to polyethylene, making it easy to recycle. Because sugar cane absorbs more CO2 while growing than the amount that is released when making the packaging, this is considered a carbon-negative packaging solution, giving this sunscreen option bonus points for eco-friendliness. Badger sunscreen is dermatologist-approved, and it's not hard to see why. The product is fairly lightweight and doesn't leave a white cast, which means you can reapply it multiple times without overwhelming your skin. It wins bonus points for its high SPF and relatively low price. The brand's facial sunscreen is great as well, and it doesn't make my sensitive skin react. I could definitely see this becoming my to-go product for daily protection if I couldn't shell out $30 for the Thrive restock. I use the tin version in order to reduce plastic waste, but the company has a tube sunscreen with 50 percent recycled plastic packaging, and all products are made in solar-powered facilities within the U.S. The thing I love the most about Raw Elements' SPF is that you can recognize everything on the ingredient list. Besides non-nano zinc oxide, you'll find ingredients like sunflower, organic beeswax, mango, green tea leaf extract, rosemary, and coffee. This gives the product a strong smell, but it's not a chemical one, so I actually prefer its scent to that of most 'regular' sunscreens. Other positives are that it doesn't leave a white cast, and that it feels nourishing, especially if you have dry skin. While the product is supposed to be used on both the body and face, my sensitive face immediately started itching when I put it on. The rest of my body reacts well to it, though, so I'd recommend this as an affordable body sunscreen made with natural ingredients. Besides having the coolest logo out of all the sunscreens on this list, Raw Love SPF earns points for being the smoothest tin sunscreen I've ever tried. Its ingredient list is short and mostly made up of organic ingredients, like coconut oil and shea butter, and it has a fresh, minty smell. This Maui-based brand was founded by a marine biologist, which explains its commitment and dedication to keeping things natural and healthy for both humans and sea life. Unfortunately for me, this product is a bit too oily to put daily on my mixed-type skin, though Amazon reviews claim it works well with other skin types—some people even use it as a makeup primer. While the product's consistency is fantastic, it only comes in a 2-ounce or 4-ounce packaging, so if you need to keep it TSA-friendly, you'll have to opt for the smaller of the two. There is a minimal white cast that wasn't very noticeable on my pale skin, though it might be more obvious on darker skin tones. Stream2Sea's sunscreen is not greasy and doesn't make my rosacea flare up—this alone immediately earned it a spot on this list. I also like that the product is biodegradable and packaged in recycled materials. The only downside is that it leaves a noticeable white cast, even after rubbing intensely. If this is a non-negotiable for you, I've found that the tinned balm version doesn't have this issue, so I'll certainly be making it my go-to for dive days when I mostly reapply to my hands and face. Besides foregoing the use of harmful chemicals, the company claims to have developed a sunscreen product that actually helps corals—aptly named Coral Care—by providing nutrients that naturally exist in sea water, though this study is still being peer reviewed. Although the Coral Care sunscreen line isn't available on Amazon yet, you can purchase it on Stream2Sea's website. While Blue Lizard's products are Hawaiian Act 104-compliant—meaning that they contain no octinoxate or oxybenzone—they do have more chemical ingredients than the other options on this list. Still, this sunscreen has a high SPF, works well for sensitive skin, and beats out the competition in terms of affordability. It was also the only reef-safe sunscreen that I could find at my local drugstore, making it more easily accessible than brands that you have to order online. It is worth noting that it rubs clear when you first put it on, but then turns slightly white when you go into the water. Overall, I'd keep this as a last-minute or low-budget option for when you can't get any of the other recommended sunscreens—and despite this shortcoming, I'd definitely still choose it over products made with chemicals that are harming the ocean. Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we'll send you our favorite travel products each week.