According to the U.S. Travel Association, 48 percent of U.S. adults travel by air each year. Generation X, comprised of individuals born between 1965 and 1980, take an average of 3.5 leisure trips and 6.9 business trips each year. Mature travelers, defined as those born before 1946, take an average of 4.1 leisure trips and 6.7 business trips per year. Older boomers, or individuals born between 1946 and 1954, take an average of 4.4 leisure trips and 10.1 business trips each year.
Few would rank airplane travel at the top of their list of exceedingly pleasant experiences. Between too high baggage fees, too long security lines, TSA regulations and crowded plane conditions, the airport and flight often comprises the least enjoyable portion of any trip. If you must rely on glasses or contact lenses in order to see clearly, the experience may be even less ideal.
Air travel for those wearing glasses can be quite bothersome. If you intend to take a nap on the flight, you’ll want to bring a case so you can take your glasses off. If your near vision has started to go, but you’ve yet to consent to bifocals, you’ll need distance glasses as well as reading specs. If you’re traveling to a sunny destination, you’ll need your prescription sunglasses as well. If you choose not to check a bag, you have to shove all of this in your carryon.
It’s even worse for those wearing contact lenses. Lens cleaning and storage solution is a must. But remember you can only bring a bottle that’s 3.4 ounces or less in your carryon. This means you have to go out and buy a special travel-sized bottle before your trip. You’ll need your lens storage case and plenty of rewetting drops as well. If you wear disposable lenses, it’s wise to bring along an extra pair or two. Don’t forget your back-up glasses. You may rip a lens, get an eye infection or find your eyes are too irritated for contacts while on vacation.
Fortunately, LASIK vision correction can put an end to airplane travel hassle for those who are nearsighted, farsighted, wear bifocals or have astigmatism. Once you’ve had LASIK, you can pack your carryon or overnight bag with ease. No need to juggle multiple pairs of glasses. No need for specially sized bottles of cleaning and storage solution in order to satisfy TSA regulations. Instead, saunter onto the plane with perfect vision and enjoy your trip.