Seeing as summer is approaching, we thought it would be useful to talk about eyecare and travel as well. It’s fun to travel and to try new things in new cities. But with all the planning and packing, many people forget about something very important—eye care.
How can travelling affect your eyes?
Travelling puts your eyes in new environments. That can include:
- Dry airplane air
- Strong sunlight
- Dust or wind
- Different screen time habits
- Changing sleep schedules
The symptoms can affect your vision, cause dryness and fatigue, and lead to infections if you wear contact lenses. Keeping your eyes safe and comfortable during your trip is as easy as following a few simple steps.
Tip 1: Pack Your Eye Care Essentials
Before leaving, make sure your travel bag includes:
- Your glasses and/or contact lenses
- A backup pair of glasses
- Contact lens case and travel size lens solution
- Eye drops
- Sunglasses
- Lens cloth and spray
- Your eye doctor’s contact info and a copy of your prescription
Bonus: if you’re flying, remember to pack your essentials in your carry-on so you can access them mid-flight.
Tip 2: Watch Out for Dry Eyes
Airplanes have very dry air. This can cause your eyes to feel dry, itchy, or irritated especially if you wear contacts.
Here’s what you can do:
- Wear glasses instead of contact lenses on the plane
- Use artificial tears before and during the flight
- Close your eyes when resting or sleeping to prevent dryness
- Drink water to stay hydrated
Bonus: if your eyes are already dry or sensitive, let your optometrist know before flying as they may recommend suitable drops or medication.
Tip 3: Protect Your Eyes from the Sun
Sunglasses aren’t just for style, they’re very important for protecting your eyes from the sun’s ultraviolet rays.
Too much sun exposure can cause:
- Sunburn of the eye
- Cataracts
- Macular degeneration
If you wear prescription glasses, you can consider:
- Prescription glasses with UV protection
- Prescription sunglasses
- Clip-on shades
- Transition lenses that darken in sunlight
Tip 4: Protect Eyes from Wind, Dust, and Water
If you’re going somewhere windy or dusty, particles can get into your eyes and cause irritation or even infections.
Protect your eyes by:
- Wearing sunglasses or goggles
- Washing your hands often before touching your eyes
- Avoiding rubbing your eyes with dirty hands or towels
Bonus: if you’re swimming, be careful too. Infection risks are high when wearing contact lenses in pools, hot tubs, and oceans.
Tip 5: Get Enough Sleep
It is important to get enough sleep for your whole body, including your eyes. While travelling, jet lag or changing time zones can mess with your sleep schedule.
Try these sleep tips:
- Stick to a regular bedtime when possible
- Limit screen time before bed
- Wear a sleep mask if your room is too bright
- Avoid caffeine late in the day
Tip 6: Keep Your Hands and Lenses Clean
Travel exposes you to more germs, especially at airports, bus stations, and public places. Always wash your hands before:
- Putting in contact lenses
- Taking out contact lenses
- Touching your eyes
It is also important not to share towels, pillowcases, or eye makeup with others. Eye infections like pink eye (conjunctivitis) can spread fast in shared spaces like hotels.
Bottom Line:
Traveling is a great way to discover the world, but remember to take good care of your eyes as you go. With just a few simple steps, you can enjoy your trip with clear, comfortable vision.For more information, concerns or inquiries or to book your next eye exam, get in touch with inFocus Vision Care. It all begins with you taking care of your eyes!
