Solo travel among older women is on the rise, reflecting a growing trend of independence, self-discovery, and adventure. According to the AARP’s 2023 Travel Trends report, 12% of international trips in 2023 among travelers aged 50-plus were solo journeys. Road Scholar, an educational travel company, also reports that 19,000 older women travel solo with their tours annually. The most common motivations? The freedom to design their unique itinerary and the opportunity to meet like-minded travelers.
While the thrill of solo travel is undeniable, it comes with the responsibility of managing personal health, including eye care. As we age, our eyes become more susceptible to environmental factors like UV rays and dryness. Moreover, declining physical abilities — such as poor vision — could impact their overall quality of life (and how they travel), which is a common fear among aging women. Neglecting eye health can hinder the joy of discovering new places. So, to ensure you can see every sight clearly and comfortably, here are four essential eye care items every older woman should pack before embarking on her next adventure.
Sunglasses
Protecting your eyes from harmful UV rays is non-negotiable, especially when traveling. Prolonged unprotected exposure to UV rays can contribute to severe eye conditions like cataracts and photokeratitis. This means that sunglasses are your first line of defense. When choosing a pair for travel purposes, prioritize high-quality women’s sunglasses like the Ray-Ban Erika Classic or Dolce & Gabbana DG2279 from Sunglass Hut. These models deliver 100% UV protection and a sleek design that can elevate your travel wardrobe. Beyond protection, they’re lightweight and comfortable for all-day wear, ensuring your eyes stay safe while you enjoy sunny beaches or city tours.
Reading Glasses
Presbyopia, the age-related loss of the eye’s ability to focus on nearby objects, is nearly unavoidable after age 40. In fact, older women have been found to have a higher prevalence of presbyopia than men. Forgetting to pack reading glasses can limit your solo travel experience, from deciphering restaurant menus to reading maps or enjoying a good book by the pool. We recommend bringing along travel-friendly reading glasses from brands like Readers, which carry a wide range of stylish, compact options. Pair them with a durable hardshell eyeglass case to protect them in your suitcase. With the proper reading glasses, you’ll stay prepared for every close-up detail of your trip.
Artificial Tears
Dry eyes are common for frequent travelers, particularly on long-haul flights. The low humidity in airplane cabins and varying climates at your destination can exacerbate symptoms, causing discomfort and blurred vision. Combat dryness by packing a travel-sized bottle of artificial tears, such as the Systane Complete Preservative Eye Drops. This 10mL bottle is convenient for carry-on luggage and provides comprehensive hydration for your eyes. By replenishing the tear film and protecting the ocular surface, these drops ensure you’re ready to thoroughly embrace the sights and experiences of your trip.
Eye Cream
Just because you’re traveling doesn’t mean self-care should take a backseat. The delicate skin around your eyes is often the first to show signs of stress and fatigue, especially after long flights or busy travel days. A good eye cream can help you look and feel refreshed, even on the go. So, consider packing a travel-sized eye cream like Charlotte Tilbury Cryo-Recovery Eye Serum. Its vegan formula includes aloe vera, shea oil, and caffeine to combat puffiness, deliver much-needed hydration, and fake a well-rested complexion. Dab it on during your flight or before a day of sightseeing to keep the skin around your eyes looking bright and youthful.
With these eye care essentials in tow, you’ll be fully prepared to explore the world while keeping your eyes healthy and happy. Safe travels!
The post 4 Eye Care Essentials Older Women Should Pack for Solo Travel first appeared on Mama Say What?!
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