Wear Contacts? You Need a Backup Pair of Glasses!

Apr 22, 2025

a close-up of someone's hands with a pair of glasses in one hand and a contact lens case in the other

If you’re someone who wears contact lenses every day, you might think glasses are unnecessary. But even the most dedicated contact lens wearers should have a backup pair of glasses. Glasses are essential for eye health, comfort, and unexpected situations. Learn why having a pair of glasses on hand is a smart move for anyone who wears contacts. 

Give your eyes a break 

Wearing contact lenses day after day can sometimes leave your eyes feeling dry, irritated, or fatigued, especially if you’re in a dry or dusty environment. Giving your eyes a break from lenses, even for just a few hours, can make a huge difference. Switching to glasses in the evenings or whenever your eyes feel tired helps them recover, keeping them comfortable and healthy. 

Be prepared for the unexpected 

Life happens, and no matter how careful you are, you might accidentally lose a contact lens, tear one, or even end up with an eye infection that makes wearing contacts difficult or inadvisable. Having a backup pair of glasses means you won’t have to deal with blurry vision or eye strain while waiting for a new set of contacts or letting your eyes heal. 

Manage allergies and irritation 

Seasonal allergies can be a real pain when you wear contacts. Pollen and dust can make your eyes feel itchy, and wearing contact lenses during this time can worsen the irritation. Glasses are a comfortable alternative when allergies strike, offering clear vision without adding any extra discomfort.  

Convenient for traveling 

Traveling with contact lenses comes with its own set of challenges—keeping your lenses clean, dealing with dry airplane air, and managing your contact lens routine. Glasses make travel much easier. They’re also the safer option if you’re planning to swim or do other water-related activities, as you won’t need to worry about losing or damaging a lens in the water. Swimming with contact lenses can also increase the risk of eye infections. 

Protect your eyes during illness 

It’s best to avoid wearing contact lenses when you’re feeling under the weather, particularly with a cold or the flu. During illness, your immune system is already compromised, making it easier for bacteria and viruses to thrive. Contact lenses can trap these pathogens against the surface of your eye, significantly increasing the risk of developing eye infections. Glasses offer a safer option by allowing you to see clearly while keeping your eyes free from germs, irritation, or the added strain of contact lens wear. 

Conclusion 

Even though contacts are a convenient option for many, a backup pair of glasses is essential for maintaining eye health and making sure you’re prepared for whatever comes your way. At The Optics Group clinics, we make it easy to find stylish, comfortable eyewear in St. Louis, Mt. Pleasant, Carson City, and Alma. Are you looking to upgrade your current glasses or purchase a backup pair? We offer great deals, such as 50% off complete pairs of eyeglasses after insurance is used or without insurance.  

If you need your new eyewear quickly, our on-site finishing lab allows us to deliver prescription glasses and custom lenses quicker than most optical stores—sometimes even the same day or the next day. Using advanced edging equipment, we carefully shape and polish your lenses to match the contours of your frames, ensuring a perfect fit. We also offer a variety of contact lenses, including specialty options for every vision need. If you’re ready for new contacts or eyewear, give us a call or book your appointment online

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