Sunglasses, Sun Safety & Smart Travel: Why Protecting Your Eyes is Just the Beginning
I wear my sunglasses at night…” — Corey Hart
It used to be a catchy lyric I sang without thinking. But after undergoing cataract surgery and experiencing firsthand the power of sun damage, I now take that line more seriously than ever—especially when it comes to travel.
The surgery restored my vision to an eagle-eyed 20/15, but it also left me with intense photophobia. Suddenly, I couldn’t leave the house without sunglasses. Every ray of sunlight felt like a laser. And just like that, sunglasses weren’t a fashion accessory—they were a medical necessity.
Seeing the Light (Literally)
I’ve always loved the sun—who doesn’t dream of a bright beach vacation or a sunny escape from daily life? But too much unprotected exposure, especially during travel to high-UV regions, can have long-term effects.
The Canadian Ophthalmological Society makes it clear: UV rays from the sun can damage your cornea, lens, retina, and even the skin around your eyes. That damage contributes to:
- Photokeratitis (a sunburn of the eye)
- Pterygium (a growth on the eye surface)
- Cataracts
- Macular degeneration
- Skin cancers around the eye
If you’re traveling to bright, sunny destinations—especially with sand, snow, or water reflecting even more UV rays—sunglasses with 100% UV protection aren’t optional. They’re essential.
Why This Matters Before You Travel
Travel is about exploration, excitement—and preparation. Just like you wouldn’t board a plane without your passport, you shouldn’t go abroad without protecting your health and vision.
That’s where Destinations Travel Clinic comes in.
We offer comprehensive travel health consultations to ensure you’re fully prepared for your trip—from vaccines and medications to sun safety and smart packing tips. And yes, that includes making sure your eyes are ready for the climate and conditions you’re heading into.
Whether you’re heading to:
-
- A tropical beach resort (intense sun exposure)
- A snowy mountain getaway (snow blindness risk)
- A high-altitude destination (stronger UV rays)
- A desert trek (dust and glare)
—we tailor your consultation to protect your whole self, not just your immune system.
Polarized Lenses: The Unsung Hero of Your Travel Kit
One major upgrade I made post-surgery was investing in polarized sunglasses. These aren’t just trendy shades—they block glare from surfaces like roads, water, and snow, which makes a huge difference when you’re navigating unfamiliar terrain, driving in bright conditions, or simply trying to enjoy a hike without squinting.
Polarized lenses offer:
- Full-spectrum UV protection (look for UV400)
- Reduced glare and better visibility
- Lower risk of eye strain and headaches
- Safer driving and outdoor exploration
Trust me—after years of squinting, this was a revelation. And they’re now a must-pack item for any trip.
Your Vacation Shouldn’t Include a Medical Emergency
From sunburned eyes to unexpected illness, travel can quickly go wrong without the right protection. That’s why Destinations Travel Clinic is here to help you travel smarter.
Before your next trip, book a visit with our expert team. We’ll guide you through:
- Required and recommended travel vaccines
- Prescription medications for your destination
- Travel safety tips—including UV protection
- Personalized health planning based on your itinerary
We don’t just want you to travel—we want you to thrive while you’re away and return home feeling amazing.
Final Thought: See the World, But Protect Your Eyes
I used to laugh at the idea of wearing sunglasses on a cloudy day. Now, I don’t leave the house without them—especially when I travel.
If you’re preparing for your next adventure, think beyond flights and hotels. Plan for your health. Prepare your eyes. Protect your future.
Book your travel health consultation with Destinations Travel Clinic today—so you can explore the world with clarity, confidence, and peace of mind.
Smart travel starts here. Book Now
Disclaimer: The medical information on this site is provided as an information resource only and is not to be used or relied upon for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. This information does not substitute for professional diagnosis and treatment. Please do not initiate, modify, or discontinue any treatment, medication, or supplement solely based on this information. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider first. Full Disclaimer.
