Whether you're headed to the beach, hiking in the mountains, or navigating airport security, contact lenses can keep your vision clear without the bulk of glasses. But they can also be a hassle—if you're not prepared.
At Cockeysville Opticians and Eyecare, we want you to travel smart and see clearly, no matter where you're headed. These essential tips for contact lens wearers will help you avoid common travel mishaps and protect your eye health all vacation long.
7 Essential Contact Lens Tips for Safe and Stress-Free Travel
Before you zip up your suitcase, ensure your contact lens routine is ready for the road. These smart, simple tips will help you keep your eyes clear and healthy—no matter where vacation takes you.
1. Pack More Lenses Than You Think You'll Need
Weather delays, lost luggage, or extending your stay—vacations don’t always go as planned. Bring extra pairs of lenses (especially if you wear dailies) in both your carry-on and your suitcase. Always travel with a backup pair of glasses, too.
Bonus: If you're wearing monthly lenses, bring your case and a leak-proof travel-size bottle of contact lens solution (not saline).
2. Keep Contacts and Solution in Your Carry-On
Lost luggage is more common than you think—and your eyes shouldn't suffer for it. Always keep:
- A few extra contact lenses
- A compact bottle of your prescribed contact lens solution
- A clean lens case
- Your glasses
In your carry-on. TSA allows travel-size solution bottles (3.4 oz or less), so don’t skip this step.
3. Don’t Use Tap Water to Clean Your Lenses
It might be tempting to rinse your contacts in hotel sink water, but tap water can introduce dangerous microorganisms, including Acanthamoeba, which can cause serious eye infections and even vision loss.
Always use sterile contact lens solution to clean and store your lenses, even if it means carrying a little more.
4. Stick to Your Normal Wearing Schedule
Sightseeing in the heat, hiking dusty trails, or spending time in dry airplane cabins can dehydrate your lenses and eyes. Don’t overwear your contacts, even on long days. Switch to your glasses in the evening to give your eyes a break and avoid overuse complications.
Going swimming? Take your contacts out first, or wear daily disposables with tight-fitting goggles. Contacts and water don’t mix, and can significantly increase your risk of eye infections.
5. Dailies Are the Ultimate Travel Companion
If you’re a candidate, ask about daily disposable lenses before your trip. They're:
- Convenient
- Low-maintenance
- Great for environments where hygiene is tricky
With dailies, there’s no cleaning or case needed—just pop in a fresh pair each morning and toss at night. We carry top brands like DAILIES TOTAL1®, ACUVUE OASYS® 1-Day, and Bausch + Lomb ULTRA ONE Day, all great choices for travel.
6. Watch for Dry Eyes in Airplanes or Hot Climates
Traveling often means dry air, whether you're on a plane or exploring sunny destinations. Carry preservative-free lubricating drops (safe for contact lenses) to keep your eyes refreshed.
Also, wear UV-blocking sunglasses outdoors to prevent damage and strain while protecting your eyes from wind, dust, and bright sun.
7. Clean Hands = Healthy Eyes
One of the top causes of contact lens-related infections is poor hygiene. Always wash and dry your hands thoroughly before touching your lenses—even when you're on the go. Use hand sanitizer only if you don’t have access to soap and water, and allow it to dry completely before handling your lenses.
Running Low? Reorder Lenses Easily Before You Travel
If you’re nearing the end of your current lens supply as vacation approaches, reordering is simple. Through our secure online platform powered by MARLO, you can quickly order your prescribed contact lenses and have them shipped directly to your home. It’s a hassle-free way to stay stocked and stress-free, so you can focus on the fun ahead, not your eyewear.
Before You Go: Schedule a Contact Lens Exam in Cockeysville
A pre-travel eye exam ensures:
- Your prescription is current
- Your fit is correct
- You're stocked with the right lenses for your activities
- You have recommendations for dry eyes, allergies, or water exposure
At Cockeysville Opticians and Eyecare, our eye doctors are experts in contact lens fittings, and as we carry all major brands, we can help you get the best lenses for daily wear, multifocal needs, astigmatism, and more.
Travel Confidently—See Clearly Wherever You Go
Whether you're new to contact lenses or need to update your prescription before that big trip, our experienced team is here to help. At our practice in Cockeysville, we offer personalized contact lens fittings, brand recommendations, and expert advice to keep your eyes healthy and your vision sharp, on vacation and every day.
Schedule your contact lens exam online, and make sure your contacts fit, feel, and function exactly as they should.