Traveling can be exciting as you can discover different cultures, explore different activities, and get another view of the country. But for those who need to correct their vision, traveling with contact lenses can be a great option. You can travel without the constraints of eyeglasses.
Traveling with contact lenses can enhance your traveling experience. It can eliminate any inconvenience that is caused by eyeglasses, especially if you want to participate in some activities. It can be a reliable companion.
Contact lenses may provide some convenience that glasses may not provide. But there are some things you need to consider when you decide to travel with contact lenses. In this article, we will provide some tips that you need to take note of for a hassle-free traveling experience.
Traveling With Contact Lenses #1 – Ensure Eyewear Prescriptions Up To Date
Before you leave for your holiday, ensure that your prescriptions are up to date, especially if you are heading to another country or leaving home for some time. Having an updated prescription ensures that you are using the correct lenses for your vision needs.
Your vision may change over time. It is best you arrange a time with your optometrist for an eye exam and consultation before your travel date. If there are any changes in your prescriptions, you will still have time to change your contact lenses. Consider bringing a copy of your prescription along; you may get one at the destination you travel to in case of urgency.
In case of any unforeseen circumstances, consider bringing your glasses as a backup. It will be an alternative during your travels if you face any problems with your lens. Having the right prescription can be handy when you are away from home. So, ensure that your prescriptions are up to date before you leave home.
Traveling With Contact Lenses #2 – Opt For Daily Contact Lenses
Opting for daily disposable contact lenses can be a great option for traveling. It can enhance your traveling experience. Daily disposable contact lenses are designed to be used for one day; they save the need for cleaning and storing, which can be convenient for you to bring along for your travel.
Daily contact lenses are a perfect choice for those who don’t wear contact lenses often. You will be wearing a fresh pair of lenses every day without the worry of accumulative deposits. Accumulative deposits can easily happen with extended-use lenses.
Since you will be wearing a fresh pair every day, you won’t need to bring along lens solution. Also, you won’t have to worry about the hygiene of lens cases. It is a great choice for those with sensitive eyes.
You can also be flexible. You can wear them whenever you need them. You have the choice of wearing it for a few days during your trip and switching to glasses when needed, eliminating the commitment of long-term use and hygiene issues.
Traveling With Contact Lenses #3 – Pack All The Necessity For Your Contact Lenses
Since you will be away from home for some time, it is important to pack all the necessities for your contact lenses. It ensures a smooth and comfortable journey.
Whether you opt for daily or monthly contact lenses, ensure you have an adequate supply to cover your entire trip. It is best to bring a little more extra in case anything happens during the trip. For extended-use lenses, remember to pack gears, such as solutions and contact lens cases.
Use travel-sized bottles for your contact lens solution. Ensure it aligns with the airline regulations. Travel-sized bottles are easier to transport. Don’t forget your lens case to store your contact lens during the night.
There are different climates in different countries. The climates can lead to dry eyes. Remember to carry lubricating eye drops to keep your eyes hydrated. If possible, get a case or pouch to keep all your eye care gear. It will be easier to organize and accessible during your journey.
Traveling With Contact Lenses #4 – Never Transfer Lens Solution Into Smaller Container
Lens solutions are an important gear to clean your extended-use contact lens. Traveling with a smaller bottle can be convenient, but you should never transfer lens solution into smaller or non-original containers.
The solution is used to disinfect and retain the moisture of your lens. Transferring the solution into smaller containers can compromise the sterility and effectiveness. If you still use the solution to clean your lens, it may lead to discomfort and reduced vision clarity.
Most manufacturers will also make solutions in travel-size bottles. You can find it in the market. So do purchase those already packed and sold by the manufacturers instead of transferring them yourself. Don’t put your eye health at risk.
Traveling With Contact Lenses #5 – Don’t Wear Your Lens In The Water
It can be exciting when you are traveling, and often, people will forget to take off their lenses before entering the water. Whether it is in a swimming pool, sea, or in the shower, never wear your lens into the water.
Water contains microorganisms, and they can be transferred to your contact lenses if you wear them in the water. It can increase the risk of eye irritation and infections. It may even lead to a severe infection known as Acanthamoeba keratitis, resulting in long-term vision problems.
Always remember to remove your contact lenses before entering the water. You can still enjoy water activities. Just get yourself a prescription goggles for a safer experience.
Traveling With Contact Lenses #6 – Don’t Buy Questionable Contact Lenses
If you need to buy contact lenses at your travel destination, remember not to buy questionable contact lenses. These lenses may not meet safety standards and cause discomfort or even eye infections. Look around for reliable retailers. Do some research online and see if there are any around the area. Read their reviews before getting from them. Avoid buying from street vendors or unauthorized distributors. Legitimate contact lenses should have clear labeling. If you can’t find any information on the product or if it appears altered, don’t purchase it.We are a company of optometrists & opticians. We focus on providing our customers with their preference of optical products to achieves improved visual acuity and enjoys a better quality of life. At PopularLens, you will find the niche and exclusive brands.