
Travelling with contact lenses can be stressful, especially if you're going on a long trip or going overseas. It's important to be aware of security regulations and prepare in advance to ensure your eyes remain comfortable throughout your journey. Here are some tips to help you choose the right contact lenses for your travels and make the packing process easier.
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Contact lens type | Daily disposable, bi-weekly, monthly |
Contact lens case | Clean, leak-proof |
Contact lens solution | Under 100ml, travel-sized, TSA-compliant, sealed in a zip-lock bag |
Contact lenses | Pack extra, enough for the whole trip |
Contact lens prescription | Keep a copy with you |
Rewetting drops | For dry eyes |
Glasses | As a backup |
What You'll Learn
Contact lens travel packs
Some popular options for contact lens travel packs include the comfi All-in-One Solution Travel Pack, the ReNU Multi-Purpose Solution Flight Pack, and the Opti-Free PureMoist Travel Pack, all of which come with a contact lens case. These travel packs are designed to make it easier to carry your contact lens solution on your travels, especially when flying, as they comply with current airline cabin luggage restrictions.
When packing your contact lenses for travel, it is recommended to keep them separate from other liquids and to declare them at the security checkpoint. It is also a good idea to pack extra contact lenses, bring your glasses as a backup, and have your prescription handy in case you need to buy more lenses during your trip. Additionally, to prevent leaks, squeeze out any excess air from the solution bottle before packing and place the bottle in a sealed bag to protect your luggage in case of leaks.
Overall, contact lens travel packs are a great option for anyone looking for a convenient and hygienic way to store their contact lenses while travelling. They offer an exceptional clean, convenience, and peace of mind, ensuring that you can focus on enjoying your trip with clear vision.
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TSA regulations
When travelling with contact lenses, it's important to be aware of TSA regulations. Here are some key points to keep in mind:
- The TSA allows contact lenses to be carried in your carry-on bag or packed in checked luggage. This applies to daily, bi-weekly, and monthly lenses.
- Contact lens solution is considered a medically necessary liquid by the TSA, which means you can bring more than the standard 3.4-ounce allowance for liquids. However, you must declare it at the security checkpoint.
- It is recommended to place contact lens solution bottles over 3.4 ounces in your checked luggage, as some solutions contain chemicals that may trigger the security alarm and might not be permitted through the checkpoint.
- Keep your contact lenses and solution separate from other liquids, and in a labelled bag for easy inspection.
- You can also carry contact lens solution in your carry-on bag, but it should be in a sealed bag to prevent leaks due to air pressure changes.
- The final decision on whether an item is allowed through the checkpoint rests with the TSA officer.
Additional Tips for Travelling with Contact Lenses:
- Pack extra contact lenses, especially if you wear dailies, to account for any tears or unexpected extensions to your trip.
- Be prepared to remove your contact lenses during the flight or at your destination due to dry air or allergies. Bring your contact lens case and solution, and don't forget to pack your glasses as a backup.
- Always have your prescription handy, either physically or digitally, in case you need to buy more contacts during your trip.
- If you're going to the beach, consider removing your contact lenses to avoid eye infections from impure water.
- Consider switching to daily disposable contact lenses for easier packing and to avoid the hassle of cleaning cases and bringing large bottles of solution.
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Daily disposable lenses
Daily disposable contact lenses are a convenient and hygienic option for travellers. They eliminate the need for cleaning and storage solutions, saving space in your luggage. They are also healthier for your eyes as they do not collect deposits, dirt or micro-scratches.
Packing
When packing daily disposable contact lenses, it is recommended to keep them in their original blister packs and place them in a clear, resealable plastic bag, such as a ziplock bag. This ensures they stay clean and are easily accessible during security checks and throughout your flight. It is also a good idea to pack a travel-sized bottle of contact lens solution (less than 100ml), artificial tears or gel tears, and clean tissues or wipes for hand cleaning.
During the Flight
The low humidity in plane cabins can cause dryness and discomfort, so it is a good idea to keep artificial tears or lubricating eye drops handy to moisturise your eyes. Remember to always disinfect your hands with clean tissues, wipes or hand sanitiser before handling your contact lenses.
In Checked Luggage or Carry-on Bag?
Daily disposable contact lenses can be safely transported in both checked luggage and carry-on bags. However, it is generally recommended to keep them in your carry-on bag for quick access and to prevent potential damage or loss. If you choose to pack them in your checked luggage, place the blister packs in their original packaging inside a hard, protective case and ensure your luggage is well-padded.
Other Considerations
- Always carry a copy of your contact lens prescription or have it accessible on your phone in case you need to replace your lenses during your trip.
- Bring a spare pair of contact lenses in your carry-on bag in case your checked luggage is delayed or lost.
- Consider bringing prescription eyeglasses as a backup option if you lose, damage or run out of disposable lenses.
- Squeeze out excess air from half-used bottles of contact lens solution before packing to prevent leakage due to pressure changes during the flight.
- Keep your contact lens solution in a sealed bag to prevent leakage from affecting your belongings.
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Rewetting drops
There are many rewetting drops available for contact lenses, including:
- Blink-N-Clean Lens Drops: These drops provide convenient in-eye contact lens cleaning and can be used with soft contact lenses, including disposable, daily-wear, extended-wear, and RGP contact lenses. They contain the ingredient Tyloxapol, which can gently remove debris and material that can cause irritation and discomfort.
- Opti-Free Puremoist Rewetting Drops: These drops can be used to lubricate and rewet soft contact lenses, providing moisture and comfort.
- Blink Contacts Lubricating Eye Drops: These drops can be used to lubricate soft and RGP contact lenses during lens wear or before application.
- Renu Lubricating and Rewetting Drops: These drops can effectively lubricate and rewet soft contact lenses, making lens wear more comfortable. They can be used for daily or extended wear lenses, disposable lenses, or frequent replacement lenses.
- Clear Eyes Contact Lens Relief Eye Drops: These drops can help soothe and moisturise the eyes when wearing contact lenses, providing relief from irritation and discomfort.
When packing rewetting drops for travel, it is important to keep them in their original containers and separate from other liquids. Contact lens solution is considered a medically necessary liquid by the TSA, so you can bring more than the standard 3.4-ounce allowance for liquids. However, it is a good idea to declare them at the security checkpoint. To prevent leaks during air travel, squeeze out any excess air from the bottles before packing them.
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UV-blocking contacts
Contact lenses are a convenient option for many travellers, but it's important to consider the potential impact of UV rays on eye health. UV-blocking contacts are specifically designed to protect your eyes from the sun's harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays, which can cause short- and long-term damage.
Class I
These contacts must block more than 90% of UVA rays and 99% of UVB rays. They are recommended for high-exposure environments, such as mountains and beaches.
Class II
Class II contacts need to block more than 70% of UVA and 95% of UVB rays. They are intended for general use and offer sufficient protection for most daily activities.
When choosing UV-blocking contacts, consider your lifestyle and the level of UV exposure you typically experience. If you're highly active and outdoorsy, Class I contacts are ideal. For those who spend less time outdoors or in more urban settings, Class II contacts can provide sufficient protection.
Additionally, many UV-blocking contacts have premium features like high breathability and wettability, ensuring a comfortable lens-wearing experience. They are made from soft lens materials, such as hydrogels and silicone hydrogels, which allow ample oxygen to reach the eyes, keeping them healthy and clear.
Popular brands that offer UV-blocking contacts include Acuvue, with their Oasys and 1-Day TruEye® lines, CooperVision's Clariti and Avaira Vitality™ lines, and Bausch + Lomb's Biotrue ONEday contacts. These brands differ in terms of feel and modality, so consulting an eye care professional is recommended to find the best option for your needs.
In conclusion, UV-blocking contacts are an excellent choice for travellers, especially those who spend time outdoors. They provide clear vision and added protection from the sun's harmful UV rays, helping to reduce the risk of eye damage and diseases. By choosing the right classification and brand for your needs, you can ensure both comfort and protection during your travels.
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Frequently asked questions
It is recommended to pack contact lenses in your carry-on luggage, as the temperature and pressure changes in checked baggage can damage them. You should also ensure you have a sufficient supply of lenses and solution for your trip, as well as a backup pair of glasses.
Daily disposable contact lenses are often the most convenient option for travel as they require little to no upkeep. If you wear reusable lenses, it is best to bring travel-sized bottles of contact lens solution, as these comply with liquid restrictions.
It is important to be mindful of the environment you are travelling to. For example, if you are visiting a sunny destination, consider getting contact lenses with UV protection. If you are going somewhere with less-than-ideal hygiene conditions, it is recommended to use daily disposable contact lenses.