Sachin Walls
Contact lenses are a convenient option for travellers, but it's important to be aware of airport security regulations and prepare for the dry air in aircraft cabins, which can dehydrate your eyes and make your contact lenses uncomfortable. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) considers contact lens solution a medically necessary liquid, so you can carry larger amounts than other liquids, but you must declare it at the security checkpoint. It's recommended to carry a travel-sized bottle in your hand luggage, along with a spare pair of contact lenses and glasses.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Number of contact lens pairs | No limit, but it is recommended to carry an extra pair or two in case you lose or damage your current pair |
| Contact lens solution | Allowed in carry-on luggage, but must be in a travel-sized bottle or individual doses. Can be placed in checked luggage if over 3.4 oz. |
| Rewetting drops | Allowed in carry-on luggage, but must be in a travel-sized bottle or individual doses |
| Contact lens case | Allowed in carry-on luggage |
| Glasses | Recommended as a backup |
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What You'll Learn
- Contact lens solution: Allowed in larger amounts but must be declared at security
- TSA guidelines: Contact lenses don't count as liquids, but their solution does
- Dry airplane cabins: Can cause discomfort, so bring lubricating drops and consider glasses
- Packing: Store lenses in carry-on luggage to prevent damage and reduce risk of loss
- Backup options: Bring an extra pair of lenses and glasses, and keep your prescription handy
Contact lens solution: Allowed in larger amounts but must be declared at security
Contact lens wearers can breathe a sigh of relief—travelling with contact lenses is a straightforward process. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) considers contact lens solution a medically necessary liquid, which means you can carry larger amounts through airport security.
However, there are a few important things to keep in mind. Firstly, you must declare your contact lens solution at the security screening checkpoint. This is a requirement for any medically necessary liquids, gels, and aerosols. Secondly, some contact lens solutions contain chemicals that may not meet TSA regulations and could trigger the security alarm. In such cases, oversized bottles may not be permitted through security. Therefore, it is recommended to place contact lens solution bottles over 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) in your checked baggage. If you prefer convenience, you can easily find travel-sized bottles at most drugstores or big-box stores.
When packing your contact lens solution, ensure it is in a resealable bag to prevent accidental spills. You can also use a clear, compartmentalised storage device to keep your contact lens accessories organised and easily accessible during TSA inspections. In addition to your solution, remember to pack a spare contact lens case, tweezers, and suction holders for added convenience when applying or removing your lenses.
To ensure a smooth journey through airport security, it is advisable to have your contact lens prescription or doctor's information accessible. This can be helpful if any issues arise during your travels and will make it easier to purchase new lenses if needed. Lastly, don't forget to bring a backup pair of glasses, especially if you're concerned about the dry air in plane cabins affecting your comfort with contact lenses.
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TSA guidelines: Contact lenses don't count as liquids, but their solution does
Contact lenses do not count as liquids and can be brought with you in your carry-on bag or packed in checked luggage. However, contact lens solution is considered a medically necessary liquid by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). This means that you may bring the solution in amounts larger than the standard 3.4 ounces (100 ml) allowed for liquids. You just need to inform a TSA officer at the security screening checkpoint.
It is important to note that some contact lens solutions contain chemicals that may trigger the security alarm. If you are carrying large bottles of contact lens solution (over 3.4 ounces), it is recommended to place them in your checked baggage. These larger bottles may not be allowed through the security checkpoint if they alarm during screening and test positive for certain chemicals.
To ensure a smooth screening process, declare any oversized medically-necessary liquids to security officers for inspection. Additionally, keep in mind that the final decision on whether an item is allowed through the checkpoint rests with the TSA officer.
When packing contact lenses for air travel, it is advisable to bring a contact lens case with some solution in your carry-on bag. If you wear daily disposable lenses, it is a good idea to pack an extra pair in your carry-on luggage. Don't forget to pack your glasses as a backup option, as some contact lens wearers may experience discomfort due to the dry air in the plane cabin.
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Dry airplane cabins: Can cause discomfort, so bring lubricating drops and consider glasses
The number of contact lenses you can carry on an aeroplane is not restricted. Contact lenses aren't considered a liquid by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), so they don't need to be packed with your other liquids. However, contact lens solution is a liquid, and while it is allowed on a plane, it is considered a medically necessary liquid. This means you can bring larger amounts, but you must declare them to security officers at the checkpoint for inspection. Some solutions contain chemicals that may trigger security alarms, so the TSA suggests placing larger bottles in checked luggage.
Now, onto the dry airplane cabins and how they can cause discomfort for contact lens wearers. The temperature- and pressure-controlled cabin of an airplane creates a very dry environment. The low levels of humidity in an airplane cabin increase aqueous tear evaporation, resulting in eye dryness and discomfort. This dry air is pushed directly into your eyes from the air conditioning vent above your seat, and wearing contact lenses can exacerbate these dry eye symptoms.
To avoid discomfort, those who wear contact lenses should consider switching to glasses for the duration of the flight. If you plan on sleeping during the flight, it's recommended to remove your contacts before dozing off. You can also bring a damp cloth in a sealed plastic bag to use as a compress or use tranquileyes moisture goggles or a sleep mask. Staying hydrated can also help, so be sure to drink plenty of water before, during, and after your flight. Alcoholic and caffeinated drinks may increase the chances of dehydration, so compensate with extra fluids if you consume them.
If you do choose to wear contact lenses during the flight, prepare for the option to take them out if needed. Have an extra pair of contacts or your contact lens case with some solution in your carry-on bag, along with a backup pair of glasses. It's also a good idea to have your prescription handy in case you need to buy more contacts during your trip.
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Packing: Store lenses in carry-on luggage to prevent damage and reduce risk of loss
Packing contact lenses for a trip can be overwhelming, especially if you're travelling overseas or to a remote location. The good news is that contact lenses are easy to pack and carry on a plane. Here are some tips for packing and storing your contacts in your carry-on luggage to prevent damage and reduce the risk of loss:
Store in Carry-On Luggage:
Firstly, it is recommended to store your contact lenses in your carry-on luggage. This reduces the risk of damage or loss during transit. Pressure and temperature changes in checked luggage can affect the lenses, so it's best to keep them with you.
Pack a Spare Pair:
Always pack at least one spare pair of contact lenses, or two if you want extra peace of mind. This will be helpful if your current pair gets damaged or lost. It's also a good idea to pack a spare contact lens case and a small mirror in case you need to change your lenses during your travels.
Follow TSA Guidelines for Solutions:
Contact lens solutions are considered medically necessary liquids by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). You can carry larger amounts, but any amount over 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) must be declared at the security checkpoint. Some solutions may contain chemicals that alarm security, so it's recommended to place larger bottles in checked luggage. Pack the solution in a resealable bag to prevent accidental spills.
Prepare for Dry Airplane Cabins:
Airplane cabins tend to have dry air, which can cause discomfort with contact lenses, especially on long flights. Consider bringing lubricating or rewetting drops in your carry-on to keep your eyes moist and comfortable. You may also want to pack a backup pair of glasses in case you prefer to switch from contacts during the flight.
Keep Your Prescription Handy:
Make sure to carry a copy of your contact lens prescription. This will be helpful if you need to buy more contacts during your trip or if you encounter any eye-related issues and need to consult a local doctor. A digital copy is usually sufficient.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your contact lenses are safely and conveniently packed for your trip, reducing the risk of damage or loss.
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Backup options: Bring an extra pair of lenses and glasses, and keep your prescription handy
When travelling with contact lenses, it's always a good idea to bring an extra pair or two as a backup. This gives you peace of mind in case you lose or damage your current pair. It's also a good idea to bring a spare contact lens case and enough solution for your trip, plus a little extra. If you wear daily disposable lenses, it's advisable to pack extra pairs in case of delays.
It is permitted to bring contact lens solution on a plane, and this can be carried in your hand luggage or placed in your checked baggage. However, contact lens solution is considered a medically necessary liquid, and if you are carrying more than 3.4 ounces, you must declare it at the security screening checkpoint. Some contact lens solutions contain chemicals that may trigger security alarms, and oversized bottles that set off the alarm may not be allowed through security. Therefore, it is recommended that larger bottles of contact lens solution are placed in your checked baggage, and you carry a travel-sized bottle in your hand luggage.
In addition to an extra pair of lenses and solution, it is also a good idea to bring a pair of glasses as a backup. The dry air in plane cabins can irritate the eyes, and some people find it more comfortable to wear glasses during the flight and switch to fresh contact lenses on arrival at their destination.
Finally, it is always a good idea to keep your prescription handy when travelling with contact lenses. In the event that you need to buy more contacts or seek eye care advice while travelling, having your prescription available will make things easier. A digital copy of your prescription will usually be sufficient.
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Frequently asked questions
There is no limit to the number of pairs of contact lenses you can carry on in your hand luggage. It is, however, recommended that you carry extra pairs of contacts, just in case you lose or damage the pair you are wearing.
No, contact lenses are not considered liquids. However, contact lens solution is, and you will need to declare it at the security checkpoint.
Contact lens solution is considered a medically necessary liquid by the TSA. This means that you may bring solution in amounts larger than the standard 3.4-ounce limit for liquids. However, some solutions contain chemicals that may trigger security alarms, so the TSA suggests placing larger bottles in checked luggage.
It is recommended that you store your contact lenses and solution in a resealable bag within your carry-on luggage to prevent accidental spills. You should also carry a backup pair of glasses in case you experience discomfort wearing contacts on the plane.
