As summer gets underway, it’s time to start planning and packing for a trip. If you wear contact lenses, there’s even more to consider for an enjoyable and comfortable vacation.
Wear glasses on long flights
If you’re used to wearing contact lenses all the time, it can be tempting to keep them in your eyes if you’re taking a long-haul flight. However, the combination of altitude and dry air on airplanes can cause your contact lenses to dry out, leaving you with irritated eyes. Wear glasses instead for a more comfortable flight, especially if you plan on getting some sleep.
Patients often ask, “Can I take daily disposable contact lenses in hand luggage?” The answer is yes, and we suggest you do exactly that. Keep your contacts with you so you can put them in once you land, and have a few spare sets, too, just in case you get parted from your hold luggage.
Switch to daily contact lenses
If you usually wear monthly or 2-weekly contact lenses, it might be a good idea, prescription permitting, to switch to daily disposable contacts for your trip. They’re much more convenient and may be a more hygienic option too, as you just throw them away at the end of the day.
That also means no worries about contact lens care routines. You won’t need to pack cleaning solution, which comes under the restricted liquid amount for carry-on luggage if you’re flying. All you have to do is keep things simple by packing enough dailies for your trip, plus a couple of extras, just in case.
Carry a copy of your prescription
You never know what might happen while you’re away from home, and one easy way to be prepared is to pack a copy of your glasses or contact lens prescription. That way, if for any reason you need an emergency pair of glasses or a contact lens supply, you’ll be prepared.
Take a spare pair of glasses
Even if you never usually wear glasses and are planning to wear contact lenses for the whole trip, it’s always a good idea to pack a pair of glasses anyway. It’s better to be prepared in case your eyes get irritated or sore and you need to take a break from wearing contact lenses for a while.
Wear sunglasses
UV protection is essential, even on overcast days. Some contact lenses offer UV protection, but that only works on the area the lens covers. The best option is to wear non-prescription sunglasses on top of your contact lenses. That way, you get 100% UV protection for your eyes and the delicate skin around them.
Pack eye drops
If you’re somewhere hot, dry, or breezy, your eyes may feel sore and irritated. The easy solution is to pack lubricating eye drops. Make sure to buy suitable eye drops for contact lenses, as some may contain preservatives which can cause discomfort or a burning sensation. We have a range of eye drops to cover a range of personal needs.
Get in touch for more advice If you need more contact lens travel tips, contact Family EyeCare & Contact Lens Center in Quincy, IL and we’ll be happy to help!