Bright sunlight and reflected glare can make driving visibility more challenging, especially around dawn and dusk. For daytime travel, choose sunglasses that provide suitable UV protection and are appropriate for the conditions.
Gary Rodney, Master of Optometry and Fellow of the International Academy of Orthokeratology and Myopia Control (FIAOMC) based at the Smart Vision Optometry Eyes InDesign Mosman clinic, offers insight on prescription sunglasses during the holidays, whether it is road tripping, night driving or spending the day at the beach.
Keep your prescription sunglasses safe
Keep glasses safe in case to prevent them from getting damaged while travelling. “Placing the glasses in a case also protects them from direct sunlight,” says Rodney. Do not leave glasses out in the sun. Heat can damage the lens coating and the frames.
In case of loss of prescription glasses or a contact lens, it is always a good idea to travel with an extra pair of sunglasses. “Make sure that the glasses have the current prescriptions and are in good condition,” says Rodney.
Store contact lenses and lens-care products according to their manufacturer instructions, and check expiry dates before travelling. Never use water in place of contact lens solution.
Keep a repair and cleaning kit
Minor damage to the glasses, such as tightening or loosening the screws can be easily done with a repair kit.
Rinse loose dust or sand away before wiping your lenses. Use lukewarm—not hot—water and a cleaning method recommended for your lenses and coatings, then dry them with a clean microfibre cloth. Avoid using clothing or a used beach towel, which may hold grit that can scratch lenses.
Contact lenses
When planning a beach trip, keep contact lenses away from water. Remove them before swimming or showering, and carry glasses with your current prescription as a backup.
Disposable contact lenses still require careful hygiene. Follow your eye care provider’s instructions for wearing, replacing and caring for your prescribed lenses.
Before handling contact lenses, wash your hands with soap and water and dry them completely with a clean cloth. Plan your lens handling around access to proper handwashing facilities. See the CDC guidance on contact lens hygiene and travel.
Choosing glasses for driving
Polarised lenses can reduce reflected glare from surfaces such as roads and water, while UV protection depends on the lens rating rather than polarisation alone.
Choose sunglasses that are suitable for driving and the light conditions. Very dark sunglasses are not appropriate for night driving; use your current clear prescription lenses at night if required and seek optometric advice if glare or low-light vision is a concern.
See the Cancer Council eye protection fact sheet for guidance on sunglass standards and UV protection.
Visit a Smart Vision Optometrist before travelling
Before a long trip, make sure your prescription is current. If you notice difficulty seeing road signs, troublesome glare or reduced night vision, book an eye examination before driving.
Smart Vision Optometry clinics are located in Sydney, Australia. Book a Smart Vision Comprehensive Vision Skills Assessment or Advanced Eye Health Test for any child or adult by calling the Mosman clinic (02) 9969 1600 or the Bondi clinic (02) 9365 5047, alternatively book an appointment online.
