Your Guide To Traveling With Contact Lenses
Much like 2023, vacations are still a priority among Americans.
As we highlighted in a previous post, 61% out of 2,202 respondents in the American Hotel & Lodgings Association’s survey are likely to travel for leisure in the coming months.
Additionally, despite inflation, some are still likely to stay in a hotel, travel overnight, or fly to a new destination. However, if you’re among the 41 million Americans who wear contact lenses, there are some things you need to know before booking your trip or hopping on a flight.
According to one study, while generally safe, contact lens wearers face an increased risk of complications during travel, including discomfort and infections. Environmental factors like dry air, dust, wind, and cold temperatures can lead to contact lens discomfort and predispose the wearer to certain types of eye damage. To avoid any eye issues from interfering with your travel plans, it’s best to be prepared. So, here are some tips on how contact lens users can travel safely:
Keep contact lens cases and a solution handy
One of the challenges associated with contact lens wear and travel is maintaining good hygiene while on the go in an unfamiliar area. Limited access to contact lens care products can worsen this situation. No matter where you’re going, be sure to pack a contact lens case and sterile solution. This way, you’ll be prepared for moments when you might need to clean or reinsert your lenses.
If you’re traveling by air, you can keep your lens solution in your carry-on. We recommend packing a travel-sized bottle like the Solocare Aqua 90ml (3oz) solution, as the TSA limits liquids to 3.4oz. Solutions exceeding this limit must be stored in your checked luggage. Pack some sanitizing alcohol, as well, in case you need to touch your contacts and there’s no soap and water available for washing your hands.
Opt for daily contact lenses
In the same study cited earlier, researchers found that daily disposable contact lenses can significantly reduce the relative risk of microbial keratitis compared with planned replacement soft contact lenses and rigid gas-permeable contact lenses. Furthermore, the risk of microbial keratitis is up to 5.4 times higher with the use of extended-wear contact lenses
Fortunately, ensuring you have an adequate supply of contacts for your trip is made easier by popular retailer Clearly. On their website, you can buy contact lenses that are quickly shipped to your doorstep. Their wide selection of contacts includes travel-friendly options like the Acuvue Oasys 1-Day with Hydraluxe technology. These lenses have a 38% water content and tear-like properties to ensure comfort. Plus, it’s UV-blocking to protect your eyes from the sun.
Don’t forget your sunglasses
Dr. Phil Hooper of the Canadian Ophthalmological Society warns that cumulative, prolonged exposure to harmful UV rays increases the risk of developing cataracts and other eye conditions. The best way to mitigate this risk is by wearing UV protective sunglasses. While some contacts are now equipped with UV filters, they do not cover the entire eye or the surrounding sensitive skin.
When shopping for sunglasses, stick to high-quality brands like Oakley or Ray-Ban, which are UV400-certified. This means that they block 100% of UV rays. If your travel plans involve being by the water, it’s also wise to opt for polarized lenses that reduce glare and enhance vision clarity. For this, you can check out sunglasses like Ray-Ban’s New Wayfarer Classic or the Oakley Holbrook.
Traveling with contact lenses requires some forward thinking to avoid ocular issues, but with the right strategies, it can be a seamless part of your journey. Follow the tips above to maintain clear vision and enjoy your travels without worries.
