Traveling With Scleral Lenses Over the Holidays

There’s a certain romance to the idea of traveling during the holidays—twinkling lights, clinking suitcases, and the promise of familiar faces or faraway adventures. But if you’re a scleral lens wearer, you know that your journey comes with its own special kind of packing list. These lenses are miniature marvels of vision correction and comfort, but they do require some tender loving care—especially when planes, trains, and mistletoe are involved.

So, before you jet off to your next holiday destination, let’s make sure your scleral lenses travel as comfortably as you do.

1. Pack Like a Pro (Optometrist Approved!)

Your scleral lenses deserve first-class treatment. Here’s what should never be left behind:

A sturdy lens case – ideally, a deep well case specifically for scleral lenses.
Plenty of preservative-free saline solution – always pack more than you think you’ll need.
Cleaning and disinfecting solutions – travel-sized, TSA-compliant versions are your best bet.
A backup pair of glasses – even the most careful travelers have lens mishaps.
A small mirror and good lighting – for those airport bathroom touch-ups.

Pro tip: Pack these items in your carry-on, not your checked luggage. Lost baggage can ruin more than just your outfit plans.

2. Mind the Altitude and the Air

Airplane cabins are notorious for their low humidity, and your eyes feel it first. If you’re flying, keep your scleral lenses hydrated by:

Using preservative-free lubricating drops mid-flight.
Avoiding alcohol and caffeine (yes, even that second airport latte).
Blinking consciously—screens and dry air can make you forget to blink as often as you should.

If your eyes start to feel dry despite your best efforts, don’t hesitate to remove your lenses and give them a break until you land.

3. Be Prepared for the Unexpected

Holiday travel is filled with unpredictability: delayed flights, sudden weather changes, or Aunt Clara’s overly enthusiastic eggnog toasts. The same applies to your lenses. Always have a backup plan:

Carry a travel-sized bottle of multipurpose solution for emergencies.
Keep a copy of your lens prescription in case you need replacements.
Know where to find an optometrist at your destination—your eyes will thank you if something goes awry.

4. Treat Your Eyes Kindly

Between long drives, cozy fires, and bright holiday lights, your eyes work overtime. Give them a little seasonal TLC:

Take breaks from screens (yes, even the Hallmark movie marathon).
Stay hydrated—your corneas love water as much as your skin does.
Get a good night’s sleep; tired eyes and scleral lenses are not the best holiday duo.

The Final Glance

Traveling with scleral lenses doesn’t have to be daunting. With a bit of planning and the right mindset, you can focus on the joy of the journey rather than the logistics of lens care. Whether you’re off to a snowy cabin or a sunny beach, your eyes deserve to see it all clearly—and comfortably.

So pack smart, blink often, and from all of us at University Optometric Center, may your holidays be filled with clarity, comfort, and a little bit of sparkle.

Traveling With Scleral Lenses Over the Holidays