Summer Ready: What You Should Know About HSA and FSA Eligible Items for Your Getaway

Planning a summer adventure means thinking ahead about safety and comfort. Whether you’re heading to the beach, embarking on a road trip, or enjoying outdoor activities, your HSA or FSA can be a valuable resource. The smart thing to buy with HSA or FSA accounts extends beyond basic healthcare—it covers many seasonal essentials that help you stay protected and prepared all summer long.

Sun and Skin Protection: Your First Line of Defense

When summer arrives, UV protection becomes non-negotiable. Your FSA or HSA covers all types of sunscreen products, from sprays to lotions, oils to stick formats, across SPF ranges from 15 up to 50+. This means you can stock up on your preferred brand from any major retailer without worrying about the cost.

Beyond full-body sunscreen, don’t overlook your lips. Tinted lip balm with SPF is also eligible for FSA or HSA coverage. Burt’s Bees offers a shea butter-enriched tinted SPF option available at Walmart for $4.74 or Walgreens for $4.99—a small investment for comprehensive lip care.

Managing Motion and Digestive Discomfort

Summer travel often involves long car rides, boat trips, or flights. If motion sickness impacts you, products like Dramamine are FSA and HSA eligible. Similarly, when you’re trying new cuisines and indulging in vacation foods, your digestive system might protest. Over-the-counter solutions like Pepto-Bismol or Tums can be purchased with your health accounts, allowing you to recover quickly and get back to enjoying your trip.

Hydration and Electrolyte Support

Staying hydrated during warm months is essential, especially when you’re active outdoors. Electrolyte-enhanced beverages and solutions—such as Pedialyte AdvancedCare Electrolyte Solution—are covered by FSA and HSA plans. These products help maintain proper hydration levels during physically demanding summer activities.

Pain Relief and Muscle Recovery

Summer fun can come with physical consequences—headaches, muscle soreness, or general aches. Your FSA or HSA covers various pain management solutions. Walmart stocks reusable hot and cold compresses in small ($5.98) or large ($11.96) sizes. For oral pain relief, over-the-counter options like Tylenol and Advil are all FSA and HSA eligible purchases.

Essential Medical Supplies for On-the-Go Care

A well-stocked first aid kit is practical insurance for any summer trip. The Johnson & Johnson All-Purpose Portable First Aid Kit with 80 pieces, available on Amazon for $9.39, represents a smart investment. Your FSA or HSA will cover the complete cost of this comprehensive kit.

Seasonal Allergies and Eye Irritation

Summer brings specific allergy triggers—pollen, weeds, mold, and dust mites all spike during warm months. Additionally, increased atmospheric smog can irritate eyes, nose, and throat. Fortunately, things you can buy with HSA accounts include all over-the-counter allergy remedies: antihistamine tablets, nasal sprays, and eye drops designed specifically for seasonal relief.

Making the Most of Your Health Account

These eligibilities represent just the beginning of what FSA and HSA accounts can cover for summer preparation. By strategically using your health spending account before the end of the benefit year, you maximize its value while ensuring you’re equipped for whatever your summer holds. Stock up on protection, prepare for common travel discomforts, and enjoy your season knowing you’ve invested wisely in your health and safety.