Flying is hard on the eyes, and cabin air creates an environment that can cause discomfort and dryness. From low humidity to pressurized cabins, air travel can even strain healthy eyes - and for those who already have dry eyes, it’s even worse. Let’s get started on protecting your eyes during flights with solutions recommended by optometrists across Canada.
The Dry Air in the Airplane
Flying at high altitudes in a pressurized cabin exposes your eyes to a very dry environment. The combination of low humidity and air conditioning vents can disrupt tear stability and increase aqueous tear evaporation. This dry environment can cause travellers dry eyes and presents special challenges that require special care.
Travel Eye Care Essentials
Travel Kit
The Eyecart Travel Kit combines everything you need for comfortable eyes during your journey. This expertly curated collection provides comprehensive eye care support whether you're flying across the country or globe-trotting for weeks.
What's Inside Your Travel Kit:Thealoz Duo Gel: This advanced gel formula provides lasting moisture in dry airplane cabins. Unlike regular artificial tears, its unique formulation offers:
- Extended protection during long flights
- Preservative-free comfort
- Perfect for overnight travel
- Compatible with contact lenses
Blephadex Wipes: Keep your eyelids clean and comfortable with these convenient wipes that:
- Remove debris and makeup easily
- Provide cooling comfort
- Perfect for refreshing during layovers
- Travel-friendly packaging
Bruder Mask: Combat travel fatigue and dry eyes with this therapeutic mask that:
- Offers quick relief from eye strain
- Helps maintain tear film stability
- Ideal for hotel recovery
- Reusable and easy to pack
Pro Tip: Consider getting your Travel Kit before your next trip - this popular item often sells out during peak travel seasons!
Hydration Heroes for Flight
I-DROP® PUR Gel is a great lubricant for very dry environments. The preservative-free formula provides long-lasting relief from dry eye symptoms during long flights. Don't forget to drink extra fluids to help alleviate dry eye symptoms.
Why optometrists recommend it:
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Extended use in dry environments.
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Preservative-free for frequent use.
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Great for overnight flights.
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Contact lens compatible.
Contact Lens Comfort
If you wear contact lenses, HYLO® eye drops provide exceptional hydration without compromising lens comfort. Their unique formula maintains tear film stability during your flight, reducing the risk of blurry vision and discomfort.
Overnight Flight Essentials
OCUNOX Ointment provides long-lasting moisture for long flights, especially when sleeping. This thick formula creates a protective barrier to prevent dry eyes during rest.
Your Travel Eye Care Kit
Pre-Flight
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Cleansing Solution: Zocufoam Eyelid Cleanser for clean, comfortable lids before and during travel, and the travel-size packaging is perfect for your carry-on.
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Comfort Accessories: Bruder Mask for eye strain and dry eye relief during layovers or upon arrival.
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Internal Support: PRN Omega De3 for natural tear production and eye health from within.
In-Flight
First Hour
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Point the air conditioning vent away from your face to minimize dry air on your eyes.
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Apply artificial tears before.
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Drink extra fluids.
Long Flights
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Take breaks from in-flight entertainment.
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Use your eye mask during rest periods.
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Avoid alcohol and limit caffeine.
Before Landing
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Gently massage your lids to stimulate natural tear production.
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Drink plenty of water to rehydrate.
Special Considerations
Contact Lens Wearers
Wearing contact lenses can be tough during air travel. Consider:
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Bringing a spare pair of glasses.
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Using preservative-free artificial tears for contact lenses.
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Follow contact lens care protocol.
For Digital Device Users
Long hours of screen time on flights can cause computer vision syndrome. Remember to:
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Take breaks using the 20-20-20 rule.
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Adjust screen brightness to reduce strain.
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Position devices to minimize glare.
Post Flight
After your flight it’s important to continue to care for your eyes to prevent dry eye symptoms from lingering. Here’s what to do:
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Use Artificial Tears or Eye Drops: Keep your eyes moist by continuing to use artificial tears or eye drops. This will keep the tear film and alleviate dry eye symptoms.
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Drink Water: Drink plenty of water to rehydrate your body. Hydration is key to overall eye health.
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Don’t Rub Your Eyes: Rubbing your eyes can irritate them more and worsen dry eye symptoms. Instead use eye drops to calm the discomfort.
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Proper Contact Lens Care: If you wear contact lenses make sure they are clean and stored properly to prevent eye infections. Consider switching to glasses for a day or two to give your eyes a break.
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Use a Humidifier: Adding moisture to the air in your home with a humidifier can help dry eye symptoms caused by dry air.
By following these you can help your eyes recover from flying and maintain good eye health.
Travel Tips for Eye Health
Comfort
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Drink extra fluids
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Wear sunglasses near windows
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Use optical-grade eye masks for sleeping
Professional Eye Care at Your Fingertips
Eyecart works with leading eye care professionals to bring you trusted solutions to your doorstep. Our curated selection includes:
Travel Kits
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Screen Time Kit: For frequent flyers who use digital devices
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MGD Relief Kit: For dry eye syndrome
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Daily Cleanse Kit: For daily maintenance
Eyecart Offers
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Free Shipping on orders over $150
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Save more with our subscription services
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Bundle deals on travel essentials
Expert Tips for Long Haul Flights
For flights over 6 hours eye care professionals recommend:
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Pre flight prep with hydration
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Regular use of preservative free artificial tears
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Protection from air con vents
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Stay hydrated throughout
Remember to always put your eyes first when traveling. By taking the necessary precautions and following these tips you can prevent dry eye symptoms and have a comfortable flight.
Your Travel Eye Health Companion
At Eyecart we know the challenges of eye health during air travel. Our carefully selected products will keep you comfortable from takeoff to landing. With direct delivery and professional support we make it easy to maintain your eye care routine wherever you travel.
Get Started with Your Travel Eye Care Kit?
Visit Eyecart.ca to see all our travel eye care products. Our customer service team can help you pick the right products for you.
Dry eyes shouldn’t ruin your travel. Trust Eyecart for all your eye care needs, delivered to your doorstep.