Published By: Shriparna

Best practices for contact lens wearers on the go to keep you safe

From packing extra lenses to using daily disposables, keep your eyes healthy and comfortable during your travels.

For contact lens wearers, travelling can introduce challenges in maintaining eye health and comfort. Whether you’re on a quick business trip or a long vacation, it’s important to follow proper hygiene and packing guidelines to ensure your lenses remain clean and your eyes healthy. Here are some best practices for contact lens wearers on the go to make your travels hassle-free while protecting your vision. Check them out!

Always pack extra lenses and supplies

One of the most important things to remember when travelling with contact lenses is to pack extra supplies. Accidents happen—whether you lose a lens, tear it, or need to replace them earlier than expected, having spare lenses on hand can save you from discomfort or vision issues.

Keep your hands clean

Maintaining proper hygiene is critical for contact lens wearers, especially when travelling. Ensure your hands are clean and dry before handling your lenses to avoid transferring dirt, bacteria, or germs to your eyes. Carry hand sanitizer with you for situations where you can’t access soap and water.

Bring a travel-sized lens solution

TSA regulations limit the amount of liquid you can bring in your carry-on, but this doesn’t mean you need to sacrifice your lens care. Many brands offer travel-sized contact lens solutions that are TSA-compliant, allowing you to easily clean and disinfect your lenses on the go.

Hydrate your eyes during long flights

Aeroplane cabins tend to have low humidity, which can dry out your eyes, especially if you’re wearing contact lenses. To combat dryness, pack eye drops that are compatible with contact lenses and use them as needed throughout your flight. If your eyes become irritated or uncomfortable, you may want to switch to glasses for the duration of the flight.

Follow the 8-hour rule

Travel can sometimes lead to long days, especially when you're on the move for sightseeing or attending back-to-back meetings. While it may be tempting to wear your lenses for extended periods, overwearing contact lenses can reduce oxygen flow to your eyes and increase your risk of infection or dryness.

Be mindful of water exposure

Water can carry harmful bacteria that can stick to your contact lenses and lead to serious eye infections. When travelling, it’s important to avoid swimming or showering with your lenses in. Pack a pair of goggles if you plan to swim, or wear glasses while in the water.

Use daily disposable lenses for convenience

If you want to minimise the hassle of lens care while travelling, consider switching to daily disposable lenses. These lenses allow you to use a fresh pair each day, eliminating the need to clean and store them overnight. Daily disposables are especially convenient for short trips or active vacations where you may not have easy access to lens care facilities.

Travelling as a contact lens wearer doesn’t have to be difficult. By following these best practices, you can ensure your lenses stay clean, your eyes stay comfortable, and your vision remains clear. Whether you're going on a short trip or a longer journey, packing extra lenses, maintaining proper hygiene, and staying mindful of your eyes’ needs will help you enjoy your travels to the fullest.