Travel Essentials for Spectacle Wearers: Everything You Need to Know Before You Go On Holiday

Packing for a holiday often means remembering your passport, sunscreen, and chargers, but have you thought about your eyecare?

Whether you’re travelling around the UK or heading overseas, taking a few simple precautions can help keep your vision clear and comfortable throughout your trip. From looking after your contact lenses to protecting your specs from damage, here’s everything you should know before you set off. 

Before You Leave

Before you travel, take a moment to check your eyewear. 

Ask yourself:

• Are your specs fitting comfortably? 
• Are your lenses free from scratches?
• Are your contact lenses and prescription up to date?
• Do you have enough lenses and lens solution for the duration of your trip?

If you’re due an eye exam before you travel, it’s worth booking one so you know your prescription is up-to-date before you leave.

Always Pack a Spare Pair of Specs

If your spectacles are something you rely on every day, losing or damaging them while you’re away can quickly become stressful.

A second pair of specs can save your holiday if your main pair is broken, lost, or accidentally left behind. Keep your spare pair in a separate bag so you always have another option if something goes wrong.

Even if you wear contact lenses, it’s sensible to pack your specs. Long days outdoors, hot weather, and unfamiliar environments can all leave your eyes feeling tired or irritated, making specs the more comfortable choice.

Travelling With Contact Lenses

Holiday routines are often very different from everyday life, making it even more important to take care of your contact lenses.

When travelling, remember to:

• Pack more lenses than you expect to need.
• Bring enough contact lens solution if you wear reusable lenses.
• Carry lubricating eye drops that are suitable for contact lens wear.
• Wash and dry your hands before touching your lenses.
• Stick to your usual replacement schedule.

If your eyes become red, sore, or uncomfortable, remove your lenses and wear your specs until your eyes feel normal again.

Give Your Eyes a Break While Flying

Aircraft cabins are much drier than normal environments, which can make contact lenses feel uncomfortable during a flight.

For longer journeys, wearing your specs is often the most comfortable option. If you choose to wear contact lenses, drink plenty of water throughout the flight and use lubricating eye drops if needed.

Avoid falling asleep in your lenses unless they’ve been specifically prescribed for overnight wear.

Water and Contact Lenses Don't Mix 

Whether you're heading to the beach, spending time in the pool, or enjoying water sports, it's best to remove your contact lenses first.

Water can introduce bacteria and other microorganisms that increase the risk of serious eye infections.

Prescription swimming goggles are a great alternative if you'd still like clear vision while you're in the water.

Protect Your Eyes From The Sun

Your skin isn’t the only thing that needs protecting during summer. UV rays can also damage your eyes over time.

Investing in quality sunspecs helps protect your vision while making bright days much more comfortable. 

When choosing sunspecs, make sure they provide:

• UV400 or 100% UVA and UVB protection.
• Comfortable coverage around the eyes.
• Polarised lenses if you’ll be driving, fishing, walking near water, or spending a lot of time outdoors.

Remember, the darkness of the lens doesn’t determine how much UV protection it offers. Always choose lenses with certified UV protection.

Keep Your Specs in Good Condition

Your specs are likely to get much more use on holiday, so a little extra care goes a long way.

We recommend:

• Storing them in a hard case whenever they’re not being worn.
• Cleaning them with a spectacle cleaning cloth and lens cleaning spray.
• Keeping them away from excessive heat, such as dashboards or sun loungers.
• Rinsing off sand or dust before wiping the lenses to avoid scratches.

If Something Goes Wrong

If your specs become loose or damaged while you’re away, avoid temporary fixes such as glue, as these can make professional repairs much more difficult.

A local optician may be able to carry out a temporary repair if needed, but having a spare pair means you won’t be left without clear vision while waiting.

It’s also worth saving a copy of your spectacle and contact lens prescriptions on your phone before you travel. If you need replacement eyewear while your away, having your prescription readily available can make the process much easier.

Travel With Confidence

A few minutes of preparation before you leave can save a great deal of inconvenience once you're away. Packing a spare pair of specs, caring for your contact lenses properly, and protecting your eyes from UV rays will help ensure you enjoy every moment of your holiday with clear, comfortable vision.

If you're planning a trip and need an eye examination, new sunspecs, or advice on travelling with contact lenses, the team at Martyn Kemp Opticians are always happy to help. Visit your nearest practice or book an eye exam online before you travel and head off knowing your eyes are ready for the journey.