Travel Tips for Contact Lens Wearers
by Linksfield Optometrist
Hitting the road or jetting off for an exotic adventure over the June school holidays? Travelling with contact lenses requires some adjustments to your usual routine. Here’s a guide to keep your eyes comfortable and healthy throughout your journey…
Adjusting Your Contact Lens Routine
Consider Daily Disposables: For frequent travellers, daily disposable lenses can be a game-changer. No need to worry about cleaning solutions or bulky lens cases.
Plan for Long Flights: Recirculated air in airplanes can dry out your eyes. Pack lubricating eye drops suitable for contact lens wearers for in-flight comfort.
Take Breaks from Contacts: Give your eyes a break during long journeys by switching to your glasses for a while. This reduces the risk of irritation.
Packing the Essentials
Contact Lens MVPs: Pack enough solution, a sturdy lens case and a backup pair of lenses (or more, depending on your trip length).
Hygiene on the Go: Travel with hand sanitizer or disinfecting wipes to ensure clean hands before handling your lenses.
Eye Rescue: Pack lubricating eye drops and a travel-sized bottle of contact lens solution for unexpected dryness or irritation.
Sunglasses are a Must: Protect your eyes from harmful UV rays with sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays.
Potential Eye Concerns and Solutions:
Dry Eyes: Dry airplane cabins and arid climates can exacerbate dry eyes. Pack lubricating eye drops and consider using a humidifier in your hotel room.
Allergies: Allergies can flare up in new environments. If you know you’re prone to allergies, bring your usual allergy medication.
Eye Infections: Unfamiliar water sources and contact lens hygiene lapses can increase the risk of infections. Be mindful of where you use contact lens solution and try and avoid swimming with lenses in.
“By following these tips, you can ensure your eyes stay healthy and comfortable throughout your travels.”
Travelling with Glasses?
While contact lenses offer convenience for travel, glasses are a fantastic and reliable option.
Here are some tips to ensure a smooth journey with your specs:
Pack a backup pair: Losing or damaging your glasses can be a huge hassle, so pack a spare pair in a different bag from your primary glasses.
Bring a glasses case: A sturdy case protects your glasses from scratches and getting crushed. Invest in a hard case or a soft case with a firm interior lining.
Consider a glasses strap: Especially if you’re active during your trip, a glasses strap can prevent them from slipping off your face.
Pack lens cleaning supplies: A small spray bottle of lens cleaner and a microfibre cloth will keep your glasses smudge-free throughout your travels.
Be mindful of temperature changes: Moving from hot to cold environments can cause your lenses to fog up. Carry a lens cleaning cloth to quickly wipe away condensation.
Use eye drops: Dry air on planes and in unfamiliar climates can irritate your eyes. Pack a lubricating eye drop solution formulated for use with glasses.
Think about contact lenses for specific situations: If you’ll be swimming or participating in water activities, consider packing a travel-sized solution and a daily disposable lens supply for convenience.
Bonus Tip: Schedule an eye exam before your trip – especially if you’re planning activities that could put extra strain on your eyes, like hiking or exploring dusty environments.
By following these tips, you can ensure your eyes stay healthy and comfortable throughout your travels. At Linksfield Optometrist, we’re all about finding the best vision solutions for our patients, so please reach out if you need anything before you go. Bon voyage!