How to Travel With Contact Lenses
The best way to enjoy a trip is by making sure needed items such as clothing and bathroom accessories are properly packed. However on long flights, train rides and road trips some of these items, such as contact lenses, should be packed in an easily accessible place. Contacts can lose moisture, fall out or tear easily, which could result in irritated or strained eyes. It is important, therefore, to have full access to your contact lens materials while traveling.
Things You'll Need
- Plastic baggie
- 3 oz. multipurpose solution
- Contact case (screw-on)
- Extra pair of lenses
- Small bathroom bag
- Rewetting eye drops
Tips For You
- Put the multipurpose solution and contact case in the plastic baggie. The baggie will protect other bathroom accessories from being soaked if the solution opens during travel. Make sure the solution is 3 oz. or under when flying; any liquid above 3 oz. will not be admitted onto the plane.
- Bring an extra pair of contact lenses. Soft contact lenses are delicate and can rip if placed incorrectly into the case, or they can sometimes pop out of your eye. Put these into the baggie.
- Place the filled plastic baggie into a small bathroom bag or tote. This item should be carried with you for easy access onto the plane, train or in the car. Do not pack this bag into a suitcase or checked luggage.
- Remove your contact lenses before napping. Put solution into the contact case and place each lens into the appropriately labeled side of the case. Use a screw-on case; snap cases will leak if they are not placed flat at all times.
- Clean the lenses thoroughly before inserting them into your eye again. Drop some solution onto the contact and gently rub the lens in your palm with your finger. When traveling, dust and unfamiliar allergens can stick to the contact and cause eye irritation.
- Use the rewetting eye drops while the contacts are in your eye if your eyes feel dry or uncomfortable. You can also remove the contacts and repeat Step 5 to re-hydrate the lenses.
