How to Travel with Contact Lenses (Tips for Flying, Packing, and Storage)
You finally booked that trip. Your outfits are packed, your skincare is ready, and now you're wondering how do I travel with my colored contact lenses without ruining them or drying out my eyes on the plane?
There’s nothing worse than landing in your dream destination, opening your bag, and realizing your lenses or solution didn’t make it. Whether it’s a weekend getaway or a long flight overseas, your lenses deserve their own travel checklist.
Can You Fly with Contact Lenses In?
Yes, you can wear colored contact lenses on a plane. But airplane cabins are extremely dry, especially on long flights. That dry air can cause discomfort, irritation, or blurry vision. Bring contact-friendly eye drops and take them out if they start to feel sticky or dry mid-flight.
Your eyes feel dry. You’re digging through your carry-on for drops. Your contacts feel tight and the airplane bathroom mirror is tiny and awkward.
This checklist helps you avoid that exact moment.
What to Pack in Your Carry-On
- A pair of colored contacts in a clean, sealed lens case
- Travel-sized lens solution (under 100ml)
- Spare lens case
- Eye drops safe for colored lenses
- A compact mirror
- Microfibre cloth or tissues
- Hand sanitizer
Keep all of this in your carry-on. If your luggage is delayed or lost, you'll still be able to care for your lenses.
How to Store Your Lenses While Traveling
If you're removing your lenses at night, always store them in a clean lens case with fresh solution. Never reuse old solution. Clean your lens case with solution daily and let it air dry.
To prevent leaks, store your solution and lens case in a zip-lock bag. Airplane pressure can cause bottles to leak, and you don't want it soaking through your luggage.
Tips for Long Flights
- Apply your lenses after take-off if your eyes are dry
- Use eye drops during the flight to stay hydrated
- Do not sleep in your lenses while flying
- Bring backup lenses in case they dry out or fall out
Going Somewhere Hot or Dry?
Traveling from a humid place to a dry one or heading into extreme cold? Changing climates can affect how your lenses feel. Bring extra drops and a spare pair just in case. You might also want to pack gentle makeup remover wipes to avoid rubbing your eyes when cleaning makeup around your lenses.
Keep It Clean on the Go
- Wash your hands before touching your eyes
- If water isn’t available, use hand sanitizer and let it dry fully
- Try not to apply or remove your lenses in public bathrooms
What to Do If You Lose a Lens While Traveling
If one falls out or gets damaged, do not panic. This is why bringing backup lenses is important. If you lose a lens and have no extras, give your eyes a break until you’re back somewhere clean and safe to apply a new pair.
Real Talk from Travelers
“I forgot to pack extra solution for Bali and had to rinse my lens case with bottled water. Don’t make the same mistake I did.” - Jess, @wanderwithjess
Quick Checklist: Colored Contact Lens Travel Essentials
- Lens case plus backup
- Travel-sized lens solution
- Your colored lenses in a sealed case
- Contact-safe eye drops
- Mirror, tissues, hand sanitizer
Quick FAQs for Traveling with Contact Lenses
Can I bring contact lens solution on a plane?
Yes. Contact lens solution is considered a medical liquid, so you're allowed to bring more than 100ml in your carry-on. Just let security know at the checkpoint.
This helps avoid running out if your checked luggage gets delayed. Bringing your own also means you can stick to a solution you trust for comfort and safety.
Can I wear contacts on a 10+ hour flight?
You can, but it’s not recommended for long flights. Airplane cabins are very dry, which can cause your contacts to stick to your eyes or feel irritating over time. Use lubricating eye drops or take your lenses out if they start to feel uncomfortable.
Wearing them too long in dry conditions can lead to eye strain or even tiny scratches on the surface of your eye.
What if I forget my lens case?
Buy a new, sterile contact lens case at a pharmacy or opt for a single-use travel kit. Never store your lenses in water.
Water can contain bacteria and microbes that may cause serious eye infections. Contact lens solution is specially made to keep your lenses clean and safe.
Bonus: Free Travel Checklist Download
Want a printable version of this checklist? Save our lens travel guide image below or pin it for later. Perfect for beauty lovers on the go.
Need a fresh color for your next trip?
Explore our best-selling colored contact lenses before you fly.
This guide is based on personal experience and tips. For medical concerns, always consult your optometrist or eye care provider.
