Traveling Tips for Your Eyes

Plan Ahead for a Safe and ComfortableTrip

If traveling is in your future, it is especially important to plan ahead if you wear corrective eyeglasses or contact lenses. Stories abound of much anticipated trips ending in disaster when eyewear was lost or broken. Nothing is scarier than navigating your way through a busy airport when you can’t see two inches in front of your nose. Follow these tips to ensure a safe and comfortable trip for you and your eyes.

Eyeglasses:

• Bring a back-up pair of eyeglasses. Even if the glasses are old and the prescription is not up to date, at least you will have something to fall back on if you lose or break your current glasses.
• Ask your eye doctor for a sample of cleaning solution. During travel, it's easy to smudge your glasses, especially when traveling with pets or small children. Many eye doctors or opticals dispense small samples of eyeglass cleaning spray solution. These are small enough to fit nicely into your purse or overnight bag, and will comply with airline security standards.
• Carry a small eyeglass repair kit in case your glasses become lose or need adjusting. These are inexpensive and usually consist of extra nose pads, a small screw driver and tiny screws. You can get one at your doctor’s office or local convenience store.
• Bring an updated copy of your eyeglass prescription in case you need to purchase another pair. If you have your current prescription with you, at least you can avoid the expense of another eye examination.

Contact Lenses:

• Pack an extra contact lens case. If your case becomes dirty or if you lose it, you will have a place to store your contacts.
• Don't forget your eyeglasses. If you happen to get an eye infection or other illness, you may need to give yours eyes a break and wear glasses for a few days.
• Bring contact lens re-wetting drops. The air in airplanes and airports often dries out the eyes, making it difficult to wear contact lenses. Instill a few drops every hour or so while traveling to keep your eyes moist and comfortable.
• Ask your doctor for a professional sample of a recommended cleaning solution. These small samples will comply with airport security standards.
• Bring your eye doctor’s business card or contact information. If you happen to get a contact lens-related inflammation or eye infection, he may be able to call in a medication to a pharmacy at your destination.
• Bring an updated copy of your contact lens prescription. You can always purchase additional contact lenses at another eye care office if you need them.