Travel & Eye Health: Protecting Eyes on the Go

Traveling can be exciting, with new places, new views, and fresh experiences. But all the changes in environment, light, and routine can take a toll on your eyes if you are not prepared. Whether you are heading to the mountains, the beach, or the boardroom, here is a simple guide to keeping your eyes healthy while you are away.

Pack Your Eye Essentials

Before you zip up your suitcase, make sure your “eye care kit” is ready. At the top of the list: a spare pair of glasses. Losing your only pair while traveling is not a chance worth taking. Bring your current contact-lens prescription if you wear contacts, plus travel-sized contact solution and a clean case.

Avoid storing lenses in water or unsealed containers. Toss in preservative-free lubricating drops to rescue your eyes if they feel dry or irritated.

Be Ready for Dry Air and Strange Climates

Planes, hotel rooms, and even desert getaways share a common challenge: dry air. Aircraft cabins can drop humidity low, leaving your eyes feeling scratchy or fatigued. To stay ahead of this, blink often (yes, even that small motion helps!), use your lubricating drops, and skip contact lenses if you know you will be napping on the plane or working a long day.

Eyes Meet the Sun: Protect Them Well

Sunshine is wonderful, but it also exposes you to UV rays that reach your eyes and your surroundings. When you are at high altitude, near water, or on snow-covered terrain, UV exposure can increase.

Go for sunglasses that keep out 100% of UVA and UVB rays, and consider a wide-brim hat for extra protection. Your eyes deserve the same sun-care you give your skin.

Screens, Maps, and the 20-20-20 Rule

On a trip, you will probably use your phone, tablet, or laptop for navigation, reading, or plane entertainment. These screen habits can strain your eyes. Use a simple trick the 20-20-20 rule. This means taking breaks every 20 minutes to look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. It gives your eyes a moment to relax and reset.

Know When to Seek Help

While minor irritation or dryness are common, some symptoms deserve attention, even when you are away from home. If you experience eye pain, redness, sudden vision changes, or flashes of light, do not wait until you are back home; find local eye care or an emergency clinic right away.

Make Healthy Habits Part of the Trip

Travel often disrupts our normal routines, but your eyes still need the basics: hydration, rest, and cleanliness. Drink plenty of water and steer clear of rubbing your eyes with unwashed hands. Maintaining consistent eye health while away prevents surprises when you return.

Heading out of town? You can protect your vision and avoid feeling strains, dryness, or worse. Think of your eyes as your travel companions: make sure they are equipped, rested, and shielded. Pack the right supplies, give your eyes a break from screens, block the sun’s glare, and know your next steps if something is not right.

For more on protecting your eyes on the go, visit Steinmann Eye Care. Our office is in Redlands, California. Call (909) 679-5450 to book an appointment today.