Eye Care Maintenance Tips for Travellers

close up of an eye wearing glasses, with a screen reflected in the glass.

Travel takes you to new places, strange weather, and days that just don’t seem to end. Most people spend ages sorting out flights, hotels, and what they want to do, but somehow, looking after their eyes slips through the cracks until they start feeling gritty or tired.

Dry airplane air, hours staring at screens, unfamiliar surroundings, and disrupted sleep: these things all take a toll on your eyes.

Features

by Editor

- February 3, 2026

Pre-Travel Eye Care Preparation

Good eye care begins well before you pack your suitcase. A little preparation can prevent irritation, blurred vision, or lost eyewear while you’re away.

Get an Eye Exam Before Travelling

If it’s been a while since your last eye test, go ahead and book one before you travel. On the road, you end up staring at screens, reading signs in busy airports, and trying to focus for hours at a time. An eye exam makes sure your vision’s up to the task and catches any problems before they mess with your trip.

Ensure Your Prescription Is Up-to-Date

Wearing glasses or contacts that are outdated can cause headaches, fatigue, and eye strain, especially on long trips. Make sure that your glasses or contact lens prescription is up to date with your current vision needs. When your eyes are working hard, even a small change can make a big difference.

Pack Essential Eye Care Items

Your carry-on or day bag should include basic eye care essentials, such as:

Lubricating eye drops for dryness
Prescription glasses or sunglasses
A protective case to prevent damage
Lens cleaning cloths or wipes

If you wear contacts, order your contact lenses online before your trip so you don’t run out of supply or get stuck with a brand you don’t like.

Consider Carrying Extra Contact Lenses

Bring more contacts than you think you’ll need. Things happen; maybe you lose a lens, your case cracks, or your trip gets longer than planned. Packing extras saves you from scrambling for replacements in a new place and lets you relax.

Stay Hydrated

Hydration plays a major role in eye comfort, particularly when travelling.

Drink Water

When you travel — especially on planes or somewhere hot — your eyes can get dry and irritated fast. That’s really just dehydration kicking in. Plane cabins are notorious for sucking the moisture out of you, so don’t just wait until you’re thirsty. Sip water often. Keeping a refillable bottle on hand helps maintain good hydration habits.

Avoid Alcohol and Caffeine

Alcohol and caffeine both contribute to dehydration. While it’s fine to enjoy them in moderation, balance them with enough water to prevent dryness and eye discomfort. That way, you’re less likely to end up with dry, uncomfortable eyes; especially on long flights.

Take Breaks from Screens

When you travel, you usually stare at screens a lot more than usual. Booking your trip, checking maps, killing time with movies or games on the plane; your eyes are working overtime.

The 20-20-20 Rule

To reduce digital eye strain, follow the 20-20-20 rule. Every 20 minutes, look at something at least 20 feet away for 20 seconds. This gives your eye muscles a chance to relax and helps prevent tension, dryness, and fatigue.

This habit is especially helpful during long flights, train rides, or road trips where screen use can be continuous.

Rest Your Eyes Regularly

Rest is essential for overall well-being, and your eyes are no exception.

Sleep

Lack of sleep can make your eyes feel sore, heavy, and unfocused. Try to prioritise rest, even when your schedule is busy. Short naps during travel days can help reduce strain and improve comfort.

Eye Exercises

Simple eye relaxation techniques can make a difference after long travel periods. Try closing your eyes for a few moments, gently massage your eyelids, or blink slowly; these tricks can help you relieve tension. These exercises are easy to do anywhere, whether you’re waiting at the airport or winding down after a busy day.

Final Thoughts

When you travel, your eyes have to work more vigorously, but if you plan ahead and are aware of what you’re doing, it doesn’t have to hurt.

You can keep your vision clear and comfortable during your trip by getting ready before you leave, drinking enough water, limiting screen time, and giving your eyes regular breaks.

Taking care of your eyes is a small part of getting ready to travel, but it can make your trip feel much more relaxed and fun. Properly taking care of your eyes lets you focus on what really matters: living in the world around you.

Image credit Dreamstime