Vacation mode: ON. Sunglasses ready. Swimsuit packed. Flights booked!
If you wear glasses or contact lenses, beach travel requires a little extra planning to keep your eyes comfortable, healthy, and protected.
Before You Leave: Eye Travel Prep Checklist
- Bring a backup pair of glasses in your carry-on
- Pack extra contact lenses (more than you think you will need as flight delays, lens tears etc can happen)
- Don’t forget supplies:
- travel-size solution
- lens case
- preservative-free rewetting drops/artificial tears
- Prescription sunglasses
- Check that your prescription is up to date before you travel
We carry all of your contact lens accessories in-office, including solutions, cases, and travel-size supplies—making it easy to stock up before your trip.
At the Beach: Protecting Your Eyes
UV rays reflect off sand and water, increasing exposure and increasing your risk of skin cancer around the eyes, macular degeneration, cataracts and other eye conditions. To help reduce your risk:
- Wear sunglasses with 100% UVA/UVB protection
- Polarized lenses to reduce glare
- Wear a wide-brimmed hat to keep sun off your face
Prescription sunglasses provide clear, comfortable protection and make for an easy beach
day option.
Can You Swim in Contact Lenses?
Swimming in contacts is not recommended due to bacteria and parasites found in oceans,
lakes, and pools.
If you wear them near water:
- Wear tight-fitting swim goggles
- Remove and dispose of lenses immediately after swimming
- Never rinse lenses with water
Prescription goggles or glasses are the safest option.
Wind, Sand & Dry Eyes
Airplanes, wind, and saltwater can be very drying on your eyes. To help minimize these
effects:
- Use preservative-free artificial tears
- Consider daily disposable lenses while traveling
- Limit wear time if irritation occurs
Remove lenses and seek care if you experience redness, pain, or light sensitivity.
Traveling Abroad with Contacts
- Bring your preferred solution from home
- Use bottled water for hand washing (never for rinsing lenses)
- Store lenses in clean solution daily
- Avoid sleeping in lenses unless prescribed
Considering Daily Contacts for Travel?
Daily disposable lenses are hygienic, convenient, and ideal for beach vacations and active travel.
When to Call an Eye Doctor
Seek care if you experience:
- Eye pain
- Persistent redness
- Blurred vision
- Discharge
- Light sensitivity
Ready for Your Next Getaway?
Need contact lens supplies, daily lenses for travel, or prescription sunglasses? We carry all of the accessories and essentials you need to make vacation prep simple and convenient.
