Important Tips For Traveling With Contact Lenses

Show us a person that doesn’t love to travel, and we’ll show you a liar. On the other hand, wearing glasses or contact lenses on the go is a more polarizing subject. But one of the two can cause significantly lower levels of grief than the other.

No matter when you’re traveling and for how long, glasses can be quite restrictive. They could be damaged, broken or stop you from performing certain activities, such as wearing a diving mask. There’s a very simple solution to these problems (and the resulting stress): contact lenses. A solution that, contrary to what one might think, is far more comfortable. But as with everything, there are some things to look out for as a contact lens wearer on the go:

Three traveling tips from the pros 

  1. Pack light: the key to using contact lenses without problems, even during a trip, is to always have everything you need in one place. Packing a small wash bag with your saline solution bottle, artificial tears in single-use vials, spare contact lenses and a pocket mirror would do the trick.
  2. Use disposable daily contact lenses: if you don’t suffer from visual disturbances that prevent their use, disposable daily lenses are the most comfortable solution, especially on the go. Using them does not require any storage or maintenance, and avoids the onset of inflammations or infections linked to the accumulation of bacteria on the surface of the lenses.
  3. Opt for contact lenses with UV protection: not everyone knows this, but exposure to solar radiation can be harmful not only to the skin, but also to the eyes. Going for contact lenses with a UV filter is the best way to protect your vision, as they specifically shield the retina, cornea and crystalline from harmful light radiation. 

Contact lenses & Planes

If you’re taking a plane, remember that each airline has its own rules regarding the transport of liquids in hand luggage. Research the recommended amounts and travel packs, in order to avoid problems and delays. Buying single-dose bottles is a practical and safe solution.

Once on board, it’s good to keep an eye…on your eyes, as the excessive air conditioning and pressure can dry them out, and make them watery and itchy. Using artificial tears will be a great way to moisten the eyes and maintain comfort.

If you are about to go on a very long journey, we do not recommend wearing contact lenses, because falling asleep with them on could cause irritation. If this is the case, you might not be able to avoid bringing that pair of glasses with you – but you could leave it in your hotel room while hiking or snorkeling.

Contact lenses & Boats

Isn’t the view of the sea from the bridge of a boat just breathtaking? Your contacts, however, won’t enjoy the view as much. The wind can interfere with your lenses and push them out of place, or dry out your eyes. Using a pair of sunglasses should keep it at bay and still allow you to take in the stunning view.

Contact lenses & Road trips

Driving with contact lenses gives you full freedom of movement, so can be favored by those taking those long, tiring drives. However, because of the wind and other weather changes, it’s always good to bring a pair of spectacles or sunglasses with you, in case of eye strain or discomfort.

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