Thanksgiving Break: Travel Tips for Contact Lens Users

Thanksgiving Break: Travel Tips for Contact Lens Users

Ah, Thanksgiving break — that glorious blend of airport chaos, pumpkin-spiced everything, and emotional reunions over too many servings of mashed potatoes. As you pack your bags with sweaters and leftover assignments, don’t forget one essential passenger on your journey: your contact lenses.

At University Optometric Center, we know that traveling with contact lenses can be tricky — fluctuating humidity, long flights, and unpredictable nap schedules can all conspire against your comfort. So, before you set off for your turkey-filled escape, let’s make sure your eyes are as refreshed as your holiday spirit.

1. Pack Smart — Your Eyes Deserve VIP Treatment

Your contacts shouldn’t get second-class treatment in your luggage. Always pack your lens case, multipurpose solution (in TSA-approved travel sizes if you’re flying), and a backup pair of glasses. If you wear daily disposables, take extras — travel delays are as inevitable as the post-feast food coma.

Pro tip: Store your solution in a clear zip bag to prevent leaks (nothing ruins Thanksgiving faster than contact solution-soaked socks).

2. Hydrate Like It’s a Sport

Whether you’re 30,000 feet in the air or cruising down the highway with the heater blasting, dry eyes are the arch-nemesis of contact lens comfort. Airplane cabins and climate control can zap moisture faster than a pumpkin pie disappears at dinner.

Keep a travel-sized bottle of artificial tears handy, blink often, and give your eyes a break by switching to glasses during long trips.

3. Hands First, Lenses Second

Between airport security bins, gas station snacks, and Aunt Carol’s endless hugs, your hands encounter more germs than you’d think. Wash thoroughly before touching your lenses — or better yet, pack hand sanitizer without moisturizing oils for emergencies.

Remember: touching your lenses with unwashed hands is like inviting bacteria to Thanksgiving dinner — unwise and unwelcome.

4. Bring Backup Glasses — Just in Case

Even the most careful travelers can misplace a lens or run out of solution. Having your glasses nearby isn’t just practical — it’s stylish. (Bonus points if they match your cozy autumn outfit.)

Think of them as your eyes’ comfy sweater — reliable, comfortable, and always there when you need them most.

5. Give Your Eyes a Holiday, Too

Between screen time, late-night chats, and endless scrolling of Thanksgiving memes, your eyes deserve downtime. Remove your lenses before napping or sleeping — even “just for a bit” — to prevent irritation or infection.

Your eyes will thank you with crisp, clear vision for every slice of pie and every football replay.

Final Thought

Traveling this Thanksgiving doesn’t have to mean compromising your eye health. With a little planning and a lot of blinking, you can keep your lenses — and your eyes — happy from takeoff to touchdown.

From all of us at University Optometric Center, safe travels, happy Thanksgiving, and may your eyes stay as bright as your holiday cheer.
Contact our office in Irvine or Newport Beach at (949)-854-7122 or (949) 476-2870 to book an appointment.