Flying while wearing contact lenses can be uncomfortable, as the dryness and increased pressure can make them feel tight and itchy. Staying hydrated and using eye drops can help reduce your discomfort, but there are few more ways to make traveling while wearing contacts a breeze. The following guide can help.

Do:

Bring spares.

Anything can go wrong when you’re traveling, so be prepared with a spare set of contacts and your eyeglasses. Pack your extra eyewear in your carry-on bag so you can take your contacts out during the flight if they get uncomfortable — so you aren’t left without a backup if your checked bags are lost or delayed. 

Pack plenty of solution. 

The TSA allows you to bring larger bottles of contact lens solution through security, as it’s considered medically necessary, provided that you declare the liquid to the agent. It may need to undergo additional screening. It may be more convenient to carry a travel size bottle in your carry-on and check a larger bottle. Just carry enough for your entire trip, and have some on the flight with you in case you need it. 

Don’t:

Sleep with contacts in.

If you plan to doze off on your flight, take out your contacts and wear your eyeglasses instead. Sleeping with your contacts in can prevent oxygen from reaching your eyes, which can trigger inflammation, and contribute to irritation and infection. 

Touch your eyes without washing your hands. 

If you’re going to take your contacts out or put them in during the flight, wash your hands first or use hand sanitizer — just make sure you let it dry before you touch your eyes. Airplane seats and tray tables are covered with germs, so touching your eyes without washing your hands can lead to contamination and possible eye infections. 

To ensure you have all you need to protect your eyes before your next trip, call the professionals at Alexander Eye Associates & Optical in Rochester, NY. They provide comprehensive eye exams as well as a full selection of eyeglasses and contact lenses in a welcoming environment. To schedule an appointment, call (585) 325-3070 or visit them online for more information about their services.