A Practical Guide to Keeping Your Eyes Comfortable While Flying
If you’re a regular contact lens wearer, you’ve probably wondered at some point before boarding a flight - especially a long-haul one - “Can I wear my lenses on the plane?” or “Should I take them out first?” Don’t worry - we’ve got the full answer, along with some helpful tips to keep your eyes fresh, hydrated, and irritation-free throughout the journey.

Can You Wear Contact Lenses on a Plane?

Yes, you can. But there are some important things you should know before wearing your lenses onboard, because the in-flight environment is very different from what your eyes are used to on the ground.

Why the Airplane Environment Affects Your Eyes

The humidity level in airplane cabins is extremely low - only around 10–20%, compared to the 40–60% we typically experience on the ground. This dry air directly affects both your natural tear film and the moisture content of your contact lenses.

Here’s what might happen:

• Your eyes dry out faster than usual
  
• Lenses may feel stiff or uncomfortable
  
• You may experience burning, irritation, or blurry vision
  
• You’re at greater risk of infection - especially if you fall asleep while wearing lenses

5 Pro Tips for Wearing Contacts While Flying

1. Use Daily Disposable Contact Lenses
Daily lenses are designed for single use, making them hygienic and hassle-free - perfect for travel. No need to carry cleaning solution or storage cases, and they reduce the risk of eye infections.

2. Bring Preservative-Free Lubricating Eye Drops
Look for rewetting drops that are safe to use with contact lenses and free from preservatives. Carry a small travel-size bottle (under 100 ml) so you can bring it through airport security.

3. Don’t Sleep in Your Lenses
Even if it’s just a short nap, sleeping in your lenses - especially in dry cabin air - increases  the risk of infection and eye inflammation. If you plan to sleep on the flight, take your lenses out first and put in a fresh pair when you land.

4. Always Pack Backup Glasses
Never board a plane without your glasses. If your eyes become too dry or irritated, you’ll want the option to take your lenses out. Glasses will keep you comfortable and functional for the rest of your trip.

5. Avoid Wearing Lenses for Long Flights
If your flight is longer than 4–5 hours and you can’t remove your lenses mid-flight, consider wearing glasses instead. Alternatively, remove the lenses before you sleep and insert a fresh pair after waking up.

What About Colored or Cosmetic Lenses?

If your lenses aren’t made from breathable materials or are thicker than standard clear lenses, it’s best to avoid wearing them on the plane. They may cause your eyes to feel heavy, dry, or fatigued more quickly in flight conditions.

You can wear contact lenses on a plane, but you should be mindful of dryness and avoid sleeping in them, especially on long flights. With the right prep - like packing artificial tears and spare glasses - you can protect your eyes and enjoy a safe, comfortable journey from takeoff to landing.