Things to Be Aware of on Summer Holidays When Wearing Glasses or Contact Lenses

As an optician, I see many very stressed patients during the summer holiday period due to glasses, contact lenses, or eye health–related issues.

The good news is that many of these problems are easily avoidable with a little preparation before travelling.

Here are a few tips to help you prepare for your summer holidays.

Precautions:

• Keep your glasses and contact lenses in your hand luggage when travelling so they don’t get lost with checked baggage. 

• Always bring a spare pair of glasses with you when travelling. 

• If you don’t have a spare pair, keep a copy of your prescription on your phone. In some countries, glasses can be made within a couple of days if needed. 

• Different countries may have different rules regarding the sale of contact lenses. Don’t assume you can simply walk into a pharmacy and buy a box. In many countries, including Ireland, you need a valid, in-date prescription to purchase contact lenses. 

• Keep your sunglasses or reading glasses on a cord or in a protective pouch with a strap to help avoid losing or damaging them.  

Safety: 

• Don’t swim or shower while wearing contact lenses. Water exposure increases the risk of serious eye infections. Prescription swimming goggles are a much safer alternative.  

• If you have swum in contact lenses and develop symptoms such as eye pain, blurred vision, redness, or light sensitivity, seek specialist advice immediately — don’t wait until you return home. 

Helpful tips: 

• After spending time at the beach, rinse your glasses under tap water before cleaning them. If sand is left on the lenses and wiped with a dry cloth, the lenses can easily become scratched. 

• Avoid drying or cleaning your glasses or swimming goggles with a towel, as this can also scratch the lenses. 

• On long flights, use moisturising eye drops to help keep your eyes comfortable and hydrated. 

• And of course — protect your eyes from UV exposure by wearing sunglasses and a hat. Too late to order prescription sunglasses? We have clip-ons. A perfect last-minute solution 😎 Any questions, leave a comment.  

Safe travels