How Do You Repair Broken Eyeglass Lenses When You’re Travelling in the US: Quick Fixes and Solutions

How Do You Repair Broken Eyeglass Lenses When You’re Traveling in the US: Quick Fixes and Solutions

Travelling can be an enjoyable experience, I do it a few times a year, but it can quickly turn stressful if you break your eyeglass lenses. I personally don’t wear vision glasses, just sunglasses and have broken these before, but Christen does wear eyeglasses all the time. We are taking a road trip to Oklahoma (13 hours each way) very soon and I thought this blog post would be really useful for those of you that do wear glasses and love to travel.

Knowing how to manage this situation is crucial to avoid any disruptions to your trip. A quick and effective solution is to purchase a temporary lens replacement from a nearby store. This can help restore your vision temporarily until you can arrange for a permanent fix.

If you’re in the US (like we currently are), visiting a local optical store is often a convenient option. Many stores offer fast services, allowing you to get your lenses repaired with minimal delay. For an even more efficient solution, consider ordering new lenses online and opting for overnight shipping.

Gidon Sadovsky, the owner of Overnight Glasses, provides insight into the importance of quick lens replacement: “Around 30% of travellers who break their glasses find themselves in urgent need of a replacement to avoid significant disruption to their plans. For these situations, overnight shipping is crucial. It allows those who rely on their glasses for daily activities to receive a replacement quickly, reducing the impact on their travel experience.”

Additionally, it’s wise to carry a small repair kit that includes screws, a screwdriver, and cleaning cloths for minor fixes. Being prepared can save you from unnecessary stress and help you maintain clear and comfortable vision while on the go. It’s always a good option to bring a spare pair of glasses too, if you can.

Identifying Common Eyeglass Issues and Quick Fixes

When travelling, your eyeglasses can encounter various problems like scratched lenses, missing screws, or bent frames. Knowing quick fixes can help you maintain your vision until you can get professional repairs.

Assessing the Damage

The first step in fixing your eyeglasses is to assess the damage. Check if the lenses are scratched or cracked. Examine the frames for any bends or breaks. Look for missing or loose screws, especially around the hinges and nose pads. Identifying the exact problem allows you to choose the right solution and avoid making the damage worse.

Mending Minor Scratches on Lenses

For minor scratches on your lenses, you can use toothpaste or baking soda as a temporary fix. Apply a small amount of non-abrasive toothpaste or a paste made from baking soda and water to the scratched area. Gently rub it in a circular motion with a soft cloth for about 10 seconds. Then, rinse the lenses with water and dry with a clean cloth. This method can help reduce the appearance of small scratches, but it won’t work for deep ones. Be sure to do your own research on this method first though, as some people have reported it doesn’t work, while others have.

Handling a Missing Screw or Loose Hinges

If you have a missing screw or loose hinges, an eyeglass repair kit can be very useful. These kits often include tiny screwdrivers, replacement screws, and sometimes even nose pads. Gently screw in a new screw where the old one was missing or tighten any loose screws. If you don’t have a repair kit, a wooden toothpick can temporarily hold the frames together. Insert the toothpick into the screw hole, break off the excess, and keep it in place until you can get a proper repair.

Repair kits are small and easy to carry, so keeping one in your travel bag can save you a lot of hassle. Knowing these quick fixes can keep your glasses functional and ensure you don’t lose your vision clarity while on the go.

Carry-On Eyeglass Repair Kit Essentials

When you’re travelling, having a well-equipped eyeglass repair kit can save you from unnecessary hassle. Key tools and materials can fix common issues and ensure your glasses stay in good condition.

Must-Have Tools for the Traveler

Bring a small screwdriver designed for glasses. These are essential for tightening loose screws or replacing them. Try to include both flathead and Phillips options. Along with this, pack some replacement screws in various sizes to fit different parts of your glasses.

A microfiber cloth is necessary for cleaning your lenses without scratching them. It’s also handy for cleaning the frames before you make any repairs. Additionally, having a small bottle of super glue can help with quick fixes like cracks or separated frames.

Lastly, include tweezers for handling small screws and parts, ensuring precision during repairs.

Temporary Solutions for Common Problems

Sometimes you need quick fixes. Dental floss can temporarily hold parts together. Thread it through the hinge and tie it to secure loose arms. Transparent tape or super glue can fix minor frame damage. Just apply a small amount and let it dry thoroughly.

In case of missing screws, use a tiny piece of wire or toothpick to temporarily secure the hinge and prevent further damage. Packing a few rubber bands can help in emergencies to hold different parts of your glasses together until you can make more permanent repairs.

Protecting Your Eyeglasses While on the Move

Use a hard case to store your glasses when they’re not being worn. It provides much better protection compared to soft pouches. Make sure the case has a snug fit to avoid any movement inside.

Inside the hard case, wrap your glasses in a soft cloth for an extra layer of protection against scratches. Always keep the case in an easily accessible part of your bag to prevent it from getting crushed.

Regularly check your glasses for any signs of wear and tear. This can help you catch problems early and address them before they turn into major issues.

These tips can help you travel much more smoothly, knowing you’re prepared for any eyeglass emergencies that might come your way.

Conclusion

Travelling with broken eyeglass lenses can be challenging, but there are several options to address the issue. Quick fixes, like using tape or a repair kit, can provide temporary relief. For a more permanent solution, seeking out local optometrists can help you get your glasses repaired or replaced. Always keep a backup pair of glasses to avoid disruption during your travels if you can though. Christen’s backup pair are his sunglasses, he has prescription sunglasses and regular eyeglasses, taking both everywhere with him. This is a really good idea if you’re going somewhere sunny! Clear vision while protecting your eyes.