The holidays often mean hopping on a plane, driving long distances, or spending time in unfamiliar environments. While you focus on packing gifts and checking itineraries, don’t forget that travel often brings extra stress for your eyes!
Whether you are navigating airport security or adjusting to a relative’s home, the specialists at Sweeney Eye Associates want to help you keep your vision clear and comfortable throughout your journey.
3 Key Tips for Healthy Travel Vision
- Combat Airplane/Car Dryness: Aircraft cabins and cars with heating/AC blasting are notoriously dry. This can cause significant eye irritation, redness, and strain.
- Action: Pack and proactively use lubricating eye drops (artificial tears) to keep the surface of your eye moist. Stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
- Wear Your Sunglasses (Even in Winter): If you are traveling in snowy, sunny, or highly reflective environments, UV exposure can be intense. UV rays, even on cloudy days, contribute to long-term eye damage and short-term photokeratitis (sunburn of the eye).
- Action: Always wear sunglasses with 100% UV protection outdoors. This also provides a physical barrier against wind, dust, and debris.
- Pack an Emergency Eye Kit: Don’t rely on being able to buy supplies on the road. A simple kit can save your trip if you run into an issue.
- Action: Always carry your backup eyeglasses, a fresh bottle of contact lens solution and case, and a small bottle of lubricating drops in your carry-on bag or easily accessible travel bag.
Taking these small preventative steps will ensure your eyes are comfortable and ready to enjoy all the sights of the season!
Ready for the holidays? Make sure your vision is, too!
