Traveling in Style: The Ultimate Guide to Eyewear for Jet-Setters

October 29, 2023
A tourist coouple couple wearing sunglasses looking at a map and pointing to the distance

Read time: 5 minutes


When it comes to traveling, we often spend hours planning our outfits, selecting the perfect shoes, and packing our bags with care. Yet, many of us overlook a crucial element of our travel ensemble: eyewear. Whether you're exploring vibrant cityscapes, lounging on exotic beaches, or embarking on business trips, the right eyewear can significantly enhance your travel experience while adding a touch of sophistication to your style. In this guide, we'll explore how to choose and rock eyewear that's not just practical but also a fashion statement.


Sunglasses: Your Travel Companions


  1. Sun Protection: When it comes to choosing sunglasses for your travels, prioritize sun protection. Opt for sunglasses that provide 100% UV protection, shielding your eyes from harmful UV rays. This not only preserves your eye health but also prevents squinting and discomfort caused by bright sunlight.
  2. Style Matters: Sunglasses are more than a practical necessity; they're a style statement. To travel in style, consider a pair that not only offers protection but also complements your face shape and overall fashion sense. Classic styles like aviators, wayfarers, and oversized frames are timeless choices that can work well with a variety of outfits, from beachwear to formal attire.
  3. Versatility: If you're a frequent traveler, it's worth investing in a versatile pair of sunglasses. Look for lenses that change their tint based on lighting conditions. These photochromic lenses can save you the hassle of switching between multiple pairs throughout the day, ensuring you always have the right level of sun protection.
  4. Elements and Activities: Sunglasses are a must-have accessory for outdoor activities. They shield your eyes from UV rays, wind, and debris, providing protection from the elements. Moreover, they enhance visibility in high-glare conditions, improving your overall outdoor experience.


Prescription Glasses: Clarity on the Go


  1. Multiple Pairs for Peace of Mind: If you rely on prescription glasses, it's essential to have more than one pair while traveling. Accidents can happen, and losing or damaging your primary glasses can put a damper on your trip. Consider having one stylish pair for everyday wear and a sturdy, reliable backup just in case.
  2. Compact Frames for Convenience: When choosing prescription glasses for travel, opt for frames with a compact design. These lightweight and durable frames are easy to pack in your travel bag, ensuring you have a backup option without taking up too much space.
  3. Fashionable Frames that Reflect Your Style: Don't compromise on style when selecting prescription glasses for your travels. Express your fashion sense by choosing frames with bold colors and trendy designs. Your eyeglasses can be an integral part of your overall travel style, allowing you to express yourself while seeing clearly.


Contact Lenses: A Convenient Alternative


If you prefer not to wear glasses while traveling, contact lenses can offer a convenient and unobstructed solution. Here are some considerations for using contact lenses during your journeys:


  1. Opt for Daily Disposables for Minimal Hassle: Consider daily disposable contact lenses, especially when traveling. These lenses eliminate the need for cleaning and storage; you can simply discard them at the end of the day. This hassle-free approach makes them an excellent choice for travelers on the go.
  2. Carry Lubricating Eye Drops: Travel can sometimes expose your eyes to dry or dusty environments. To maintain comfort and hydration for your eyes, bring a small bottle of lubricating eye drops. This ensures that your eyes remain comfortable, even in less-than-ideal conditions.
  3. Don't Forget UV Protection: While contact lenses can enhance your vision, they don't offer complete UV protection for your entire eye. Therefore, it's essential to remember to wear sunglasses in addition to your contact lenses, ensuring that your eyes are shielded from harmful UV rays.
  4. Pack extra contact lenses and a spare pair of glasses: Travel can be unpredictable, and unexpected mishaps can happen, from lost luggage to damage during adventurous activities. By bringing along additional contact lenses, you ensure clear vision throughout your trip, and a spare pair of glasses can be a lifesaver if your contacts become uncomfortable or if you face any eye-related issues.


Care and Maintenance


No matter which type of eyewear you choose for your travels, proper care and maintenance are crucial for their longevity and performance. Here are some key tips:


  • Protect Your Eyewear: Always pack your sunglasses or glasses in a durable and protective hard case to safeguard them from damage during your travels.
  • Use Microfiber Cleaning Cloths: Carry a microfiber cleaning cloth with you to keep your lenses smudge-free and clear. This small accessory can make a big difference in your overall visual experience while traveling.


Plan Ahead


Planning ahead is crucial when it comes to preparing for a vacation, especially if you rely on contacts or eyewear for clear vision. Failing to do so can lead to several inconveniences and potential issues. Firstly, not ordering your contacts in advance might result in running out of your prescription lenses while on your trip, leaving you with impaired vision and scrambling to find a local optometrist in an unfamiliar place. Moreover, last-minute orders might not arrive in time, leading to a stressful and vision-compromised start to your vacation. Additionally, if you have specialized or designer frames, they may be challenging to replace or repair while traveling. By taking the time to plan ahead and ensure you have an ample supply of contacts or a backup pair of glasses, you can avoid these hassles and enjoy a seamless and clear-sighted vacation.


The Takeaway


So as you see, traveling in style involves more than just your clothing; your choice of eyewear can be the ultimate style statement while providing essential eye protection. Whether you prefer sunglasses, prescription glasses, or contact lenses, make sure your eyewear enhances your travel experience. So, the next time you embark on a journey, don't forget to pack your favorite eyewear to look chic while keeping your eyes safe and comfortable. Safe travels!

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The information provided in this article is intended for general knowledge and educational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. It is strongly recommended to consult with an eye care professional for personalized recommendations and guidance regarding your individual needs and eye health concerns.


All of Urban Optiks Optometry's blog posts and articles contain information carefully curated from openly sourced materials available in the public domain. We strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the information provided. For a comprehensive understanding of our practices and to read our full disclosure statement, please click here.

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