Tips for Traveling with Glasses and Contact Lenses

By Owen Chase

Traveling with glasses and contact lenses can present unique challenges. Whether you’re going on a quick weekend trip or an international adventure, it’s important to ensure that your vision remains clear and comfortable throughout your journey. You need to consider how to care for both types of eyewear while ensuring that they are accessible, safe, and comfortable.

Whether you wear glasses every day or occasionally use contacts, the goal is to make sure you’re not caught off guard by discomfort or vision problems during your travels. By planning ahead, you can avoid common issues such as lost glasses, dried-out contacts, or eye strain, allowing you to enjoy your trip with clear vision.

Proper planning and packing will not only make your travels smoother but will also protect your eyes and prevent any potential discomfort from cropping up during your trip. Here are some tips to help you manage both your glasses and contact lenses while traveling.

Preparing for Your Trip

Make Sure Your Glasses Are in Top Condition  before you pack. Take a moment to ensure they are in good condition. Clean your lenses to remove any smudges, dust, or dirt that could obstruct your vision. Check the frames for any loose screws and tighten them as necessary. It’s also a good idea to inspect your lenses for scratches that could worsen during travel, potentially impairing your ability to see clearly.

Contact Lens Preparation

For those who wear contact lenses, preparation is key. Be sure to bring an extra pair of lenses in case your current set gets damaged or lost. You don’t want to find yourself in a new city without your primary form of vision correction. Additionally, make sure you have enough lens solution and cases for the duration of your trip. Always check the expiry dates on your lenses and solution before leaving home to ensure that they are still effective and safe to use.

Packing Essentials

Glasses

When packing your glasses, always use a hard-shell case for added protection. This will prevent your glasses from being crushed or bent during transit. To be extra cautious, consider packing a spare pair of prescription glasses in case the original pair gets lost or damaged.

Having a backup will save you from the stress of being without proper vision correction, especially if you're in an unfamiliar location.

Contact Lenses

When traveling with contact lenses, keep your lens supplies—including solution and cases—packed in your carry-on bag to ensure they are easily accessible. Travel-sized bottles of lens solution are perfect for long flights or road trips, as they allow you to keep
your lenses fresh and moisturized during your journey. If you wear daily disposable lenses, consider bringing a few extra pairs for added convenience, as these are perfect for hassle-free wear on the go.

Managing Glasses During Travel

While traveling, keep your glasses in a secure place to avoid any mishaps. Avoid leaving them on airplane seats or in overhead bins, where they could easily get crushed or forgotten.

A handy glasses strap or chain is an excellent investment for those who engage in active travel, such as hiking or sightseeing. This prevents your glasses from slipping off or getting lost while you’re on the move.

Contact Lenses Care

When traveling, be mindful of how long you wear your contact lenses. Extended wear, particularly on long flights, can lead to dryness or discomfort. To combat this, bring along eye drops to keep your eyes moist and refreshed during the journey. If your eyes feel dry or irritated, it’s a good idea to switch to your backup glasses for a while, especially on long flights where cabin air can dehydrate your eyes.

Special Considerations for Long Flights or Outdoor Adventures

Flying with Glasses

Airplane cabins can be dry, making it uncomfortable to wear glasses, especially if you have dry eyes. To prevent your lenses from fogging up, try to adjust your glasses to a snug fit on your face before the flight. If you’re prone to fogging, consider using anti-fog wipes or sprays that are safe for eyewear. Additionally, a proper fit is essential to avoid discomfort during flights due to pressure changes. Make sure your glasses aren’t too tight, as this can cause headaches or pressure around the nose and temples.

Contact Lenses Outdoors
When traveling outdoors, especially in windy or dusty environments, be cautious of the conditions that can affect your contact lenses. Wind and dust can irritate your eyes and cause discomfort when wearing lenses. Always pack extra eye drops and consider using daily disposable lenses for convenience. These offer the benefit of not having to worry about cleaning and storing lenses while you’re on the go. In environments where your lenses may be exposed to pollutants, it’s also helpful to keep a backup pair of glasses for better protection.

Acclimate to New Environments

Once you reach your destination, take some time to acclimate to the new environment and adjust your eyewear accordingly. Air conditioning or heating in hotel rooms can dry out your eyes, so be sure to hydrate well and use lubricating eye drops if you experience discomfort.

If you’re traveling to a sunny location, remember to pack sunglasses to protect your eyes from the harsh UV rays. Polarized sunglasses are especially helpful for reducing glare, ensuring comfort while sightseeing.

Dealing with Dry Eyes or Discomfort

Long days of travel, unfamiliar climates, and changes in humidity can lead to dry eyes or discomfort, especially for contact lens wearers. To relieve discomfort, use lubricating eye drops or moisture gels to hydrate your eyes. If necessary, switch to your glasses for a break from wearing contacts. Taking care of your eyes and maintaining proper hydration is key to keeping your vision clear and comfortable during your trip.

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