A moment of panic often sets in when a traveler realizes their contact lenses or eye care supplies were left behind. Being without vision correction while away from home can feel like a disaster, but this situation has many practical and immediate solutions. Understanding the steps for temporary care and obtaining replacements can turn a stressful oversight into a manageable travel hiccup.
Immediate Triage and Temporary Fixes
The first step in managing this situation is to check for backup eyeglasses, which remain the safest and most immediate alternative to contacts for correcting vision. Having a pair of glasses provides a necessary visual bridge while arrangements for new lenses are being made.
Once vision is secured, the immediate need is for basic supplies like contact lens solution and a clean case. These non-prescription items can be found at nearly any local pharmacy, drugstore, or hotel gift shops in travel-sized containers.
If the existing lenses are feeling dry or uncomfortable, over-the-counter lubricating or rewetting drops specifically formulated for use with contact lenses can offer temporary relief. These drops can extend comfortable wear time until new supplies are secured.
Obtaining Replacement Lenses
Acquiring replacement contact lenses is governed by prescription regulations, so having a current, unexpired prescription is helpful. Keep a digital copy or a clear photo of the prescription, including the power, base curve, and diameter, accessible on a smartphone. This information allows local optical shops or online retailers to verify the specific lens parameters needed.
One pathway involves utilizing telehealth or online vision services, which can often verify an existing prescription or even conduct a renewal test remotely, depending on local regulations. This process usually involves a brief visual acuity test and a review by an eye care professional, often resulting in a renewed, valid prescription within 24 hours that can be used for ordering.
Alternatively, a local optometrist or optical chain store at the travel destination may be able to help with an emergency supply. Many eye care offices stock sample or trial lenses for common brands and prescriptions.
They may provide a few pairs to hold a traveler over until they return home or a larger order arrives. A final option is to place an emergency order with an online retailer, requesting expedited shipping directly to the hotel or temporary address.
Essential Safety Measures
While seeking replacements, maintain rigorous hygiene to prevent eye infections. Never use tap water, bottled water, or homemade saline solutions to clean or store contact lenses. Tap water often contains microorganisms, including the parasite Acanthamoeba, which can cause a rare but serious corneal infection called Acanthamoeba keratitis.
Similarly, saliva and non-sterile solutions should never be used, as they introduce bacteria and contaminants to the lens surface and the eye. If the current lenses feel irritating, cause redness, or if the proper sterile solution is unavailable, the safest action is to immediately remove the contacts and switch to eyeglasses full-time.
Wearing lenses beyond their recommended lifespan or despite discomfort significantly increases the risk of corneal abrasion and infection.