Travelling with Contact Lenses: What You Need to Know.
Whether you’re jetting off overseas, hitting the road or heading away for a weekend escape, travelling with contact lenses requires a little extra preparation to ensure your eyes stay healthy and comfortable on the go. Changes in climate, water quality, and routine can all affect your lenses, and your vision. At The Eyecare Spot, we strongly advise that you plan ahead so that you enjoy time away without stressing about your vision. Here’s everything you need to know.
Stock Up Before You Go
The last thing you want while away is to run out of lenses or solution. Make sure you bring more than you think you’ll need, especially if you're travelling to remote areas or places where buying replacements may be difficult.
If you wear daily disposables, pack enough for the entire trip, plus a few extras. For fortnightly or monthly lenses, don’t forget to bring your lens case and a full supply of cleaning and storage solution.
Running low? Contact us before your trip so we can help you restock with enough lenses and care products or shop our range of contact lenses online.
Keep Your Lenses in Your Carry-On
When flying, always pack your contact lenses, a small bottle of solution, and spectacles in your carry-on bag. Checked baggage can be delayed or lost, and cabin air tends to dry out eyes faster, making it helpful to have essentials within reach.
If you're on a long-haul flight, consider removing your lenses and switching to spectacles especially if you plan to sleep. Cabin air is low in humidity and can cause your lenses to dry out increasing discomfort or the risk of irritation.
Follow Strict Hygiene, Even on the Road
Travelling often means unfamiliar environments, shared bathrooms, or public transport. Wherever you are, maintaining proper lens hygiene is essential. Always wash your hands and dry thoroughly before inserting or removing lenses. Avoid touching your eyes with unwashed hands and never rinse lenses with tap or bottled water.
If access to clean water or washrooms might be an issue, daily disposable lenses are the most hygienic and convenient option. They eliminate the need for cleaning and are ideal for travel.
Be Mindful of Climate and Environment
Dry air, wind, high altitudes, or dusty conditions can all affect your eyes and how your lenses feel. If you're visiting hot, dry, or windy locations, bring lubricating eye drops approved for use with contact lenses. These can help maintain comfort and prevent dryness during outdoor adventures or sightseeing.
If you're heading to the beach or planning to swim, remember that contact lenses should never be worn in pools or spas. Water can introduce harmful microbes, leading to serious infections. Always pack your prescription sunglasses or a backup pair of glasses just in case.
Need help finding the right sunglass options with UV protection before your holiday? We can help.
Always Bring a Backup
No matter how well you plan, things can go wrong. Lost luggage, a dropped lens, or irritation that forces you to stop wearing contacts altogether. Always bring your glasses, even if you don’t plan to wear them. They’re an essential backup in case your eyes need a break or your lenses become unusable during the trip.
It’s also wise to carry a copy of your most recent contact lens prescription in case you need a replacement while away.
Need Travel-Friendly Advice? We’ve Got You Covered
Before you head off on your next trip, a quick eye check-up can give you peace of mind. We’ll ensure your prescription is current, recommend travel-ready lens solutions, and offer tips based on your destination and length of stay.
Whether you’re heading overseas or just out of town, The Eyecare Spot is here to make travelling with contact lenses simple and stress-free. Reach out to our friendly team for advice or to book your pre-travel appointment.
