How to Handle Eye Emergencies While Traveling: What to Pack and Know Before You Go

Traveling is an exciting adventure, but the last thing you want is an eye emergency ruining your trip. Whether you're exploring a new city or relaxing on a beach, unexpected eye issues—like a lost contact lens, sudden redness, or an irritating foreign object—can quickly become a problem. At Market Street Optometry, we want to make sure you’re prepared before you go, so you can focus on enjoying your trip without worrying about your eyes.

Schedule an Eye Exam Before You Travel

Before packing your bags, it’s smart to schedule a comprehensive eye exam—especially if you wear prescription glasses or contact lenses. An updated prescription ensures you have the correct eyewear, and your optometrist can check for any underlying conditions that might become an issue while you’re away.

For those in San Francisco or Daly City, traveling often means long flights, changing climates, and unpredictable environments. If you’re prone to dry eyes or allergies, your optometrist can recommend solutions to keep your eyes comfortable while on the go.

What to Pack in Your Eye Emergency Kit

A well-stocked eye care kit can be a lifesaver during your travels. Here’s what we recommend bringing:

Backup Glasses or Contacts: If you wear contacts, always carry an extra pair of lenses and your glasses in case of irritation or loss.
Travel-Sized Contact Lens Solution: TSA-friendly bottles are essential, as not all destinations will have your preferred brand. Never use tap water to clean your contacts!
Lubricating Eye Drops: Airplane cabins and dry climates can cause discomfort, so keep hydrating drops handy.
Prescription Medications: If you have prescribed eye drops for conditions like glaucoma or allergies, pack extra to avoid running out.
UV-Protective Sunglasses: Whether you’re sightseeing in a sunny city or skiing in the mountains, UV exposure can cause serious eye damage.
Eye Wash or Saline Solution: If something gets in your eye, having a sterile rinse on hand can help prevent infection.

What to Do in an Eye Emergency While Traveling

Even with preparation, eye emergencies can still happen. Here’s how to handle common issues:

Redness and Irritation: If your eyes feel dry or irritated, use artificial tears and avoid rubbing them.
Lost or Torn Contact Lenses: Always have your glasses as a backup. If you lose a lens, avoid buying over-the-counter replacements without a prescription—ill-fitting contacts can lead to infections.
Foreign Object in Your Eye: If something gets in your eye, flush it with sterile saline or clean water. Avoid rubbing, as this can cause more damage. If irritation continues, seek medical attention.
Sudden Vision Changes or Eye Pain: Don’t ignore serious symptoms like flashes of light, loss of vision, or severe pain. These could indicate a retinal issue or infection, requiring immediate care.

Stay Prepared and Travel with Confidence

Don’t let an eye emergency derail your trip. With the right preparation, you can enjoy your travels worry-free, knowing you have what you need to handle any unexpected situation.

Schedule your eye exam with Market Street Optometry before you travel. We’ll make sure your eyes are in great shape, so you can focus on making memories—not managing eye issues. Visit our office in San Francisco or Daly City, California. Call (415) 896-1824 or (650) 992-0102 to book an appointment today.