We don’t know what it is. But there’s something about going on holiday that makes perfectly sensible people do extraordinary things with their glasses.
Weeks are spent planning flights, packing suitcases and checking passports.
Then someone sits on their glasses before the plane has even left the ground.
At EYES on St Albans, we can usually tell when everyone has been away. The first few weeks after the summer holidays are filled with bent frames, scratched lenses and stories that always begin with:
“You’ll never guess what happened…”
Actually…
We probably can.
The golden rule for holiday glasses care: Case or face
If there’s one piece of advice we give more than any other, it’s this:
Case or face.
“If your glasses aren’t on your face, they should be safely in their case,” says Jez – frequently. If you can’t find your case, come and get one from us!
It sounds simple, but it’s amazing how many holiday mishaps begin with glasses being thrown into a beach bag, backpack or hand luggage alongside chargers, books, headphones and a packet of travel sweets.
A proper case takes up very little room but could save you from spending your holiday searching for an optician.
Salt water and swimming pools
Sea water and chlorinated pools won’t instantly ruin your glasses, but repeated exposure isn’t ideal.
Salt, chlorine and sand can all affect lens coatings over time, while an unexpected wave can quickly send your favourite sunglasses to the bottom of the sea.
If you’re planning to spend lots of time in the water, consider taking a second pair of sunglasses that you’re happy to use for swimming or paddleboarding, making sure they still offer full UV protection.
Don’t leave your glasses in the car
A parked car can become incredibly hot during the summer.
Leaving your glasses on the dashboard or windowsill might seem convenient, but extreme temperatures can damage premium lens coatings and even distort some frame materials.
“We’ve seen it happen more times than we’d like,” says Jez.
If you’re not wearing your glasses, keep them safely in their case and out of direct sunlight.
Paddleboards, beaches and sun loungers
However good your balance is…
Water has a habit of proving otherwise.
We’ve heard “I only fell in once” more times than we can count.
The same goes for hotel beds, sun loungers and trying to fasten a seatbelt while your glasses are tucked into a pocket.
Holiday memories are wonderful.
Accidentally sitting on your glasses isn’t.
Small accessories that make a big difference
One of the easiest ways to keep your sunglasses close by while you’re exploring a new city, wandering around markets or enjoying lunch by the beach is with a stylish glasses chain.
They’re practical, fashionable and mean your sunglasses are always within easy reach.
We also stock Secrid wallets, which have become a firm favourite with customers who like to travel light. Compact, secure and beautifully designed, they’re perfect for keeping your cards safe while you’re away.
“We love products that make life easier,” says Jez. “Whether that’s glasses you love wearing, a stylish Kodes chain to keep them safe or a wallet that slips neatly into your pocket.”
Our holiday packing checklist
Before you zip up your suitcase, don’t forget:
- Passport
- Sun cream
- Quality sunglasses with full UV protection
- Your glasses case
- Contact lenses and solution (if you wear them)
- A microfibre cleaning cloth
- A stylish glasses chain if you’re out and about all day
Enjoy the holiday. Bring the glasses home.
Holidays should be about making memories, not emergency visits to an optician because your glasses are now somewhere at the bottom of the Mediterranean.
A little preparation goes a long way.
So wherever you’re heading this summer, remember the advice we give every day at EYES on St Albans:
Case or face.
Your future self will thank you.
Spex, hugs and rock’n’roll.
A More Colourful Summer with EnChroma Glasses