With Autumn right around the corner, many people are eager to travel. If you wear contact lenses, you know how important your eye care routine is. This routine must go with you on your travels, and the following tips can help preserve your contacts and your vision no matter where you are. 

4 Tips When Traveling With Contact Lenses

1. Be Cautious When Swimming

Swimming can be a fun activity on vacation, but it's important to be careful when you have contact lenses. The water in pools, hot tubs, and the ocean can harbor harmful bacteria that can lead to eye infections. 

It's best to avoid wearing contact lenses while swimming, but if you must, wear waterproof goggles to protect your eyes. Also, never rinse your lenses with tap water, as it can contain harmful microorganisms. For the safest cleansing, use sterile saline solution or contact lens solution.

2. Don't Neglect Your Eye Care Routine

Traveling can throw off your routine, but don't neglect your eye care. Always wash your hands before handling your contact lenses, and use a clean, dry towel to dry them. 

It's also important to stick to your lens replacement schedule and bring enough lenses and solution for the duration of your trip. If you're flying, pack your lenses in your carry-on bag, along with a travel-sized bottle of solution, in case your checked baggage is delayed or lost.

3. Pack All Eye Care Products Together

When packing for your trip, make sure to keep all your eyecare products together in one place. This includes your contact lenses, solution, eye drops, and any other accessories you use, like lens cases or a travel-sized mirror. This way, you'll be able to find everything easily and ensure you have everything you need.

4. Know the Travel Security Rules

Before you head to the airport, familiarize yourself with the TSA's rules regarding contact lenses. You can bring contact lenses in your carry-on or checked baggage, but they must be packed in a clear, quart-sized plastic bag. 

You can also bring a reasonable amount of contact lens solution, but it must be in a container that's 3.4 ounces or less. If you have any questions or concerns, contact the airline or TSA before your trip.

Traveling with contact lenses requires a bit of extra care, but it's worth it to ensure your eyes stay healthy and comfortable. Whether you wear contacts or glasses, Abel, Klecker, & Robbins in Lexington, KY, can help you maintain healthy vision for life. Backed by over six decades of experience, this eye care team offers exams, contact lenses, and more. Visit the website for the complete listing of services, or call (859) 269-6921 to schedule an appointment.