One Bag Travel: My Quest to Pack Glasses Lighter

Packing light is my passion. I love the freedom of traveling with just one bag. But as someone who needs glasses (and sunglasses!), I always struggled with the eyewear dilemma. How do I protect them without taking up too much space? It felt like a constant battle between practicality and packing light. I've tried so many things over the years, and I'm finally starting to feel like I've cracked the code.

The Glasses Predicament: A Traveler's Tale

For years, my glasses were a major source of stress when packing. I need multiple pairs – my everyday glasses, prescription sunglasses, and sometimes even blue light blocking glasses for screen time. I was always worried about them getting crushed or scratched in my bag. Each pair went into a hard case, which took up valuable real estate. I was sacrificing space for safety, but it felt like there had to be a better way. It was frustrating knowing that something so small could cause so much hassle. I knew other travelers must have faced the same challenge, so I started searching for solutions.

I remember one trip where I completely overpacked just to accommodate my glasses. I had this huge backpack that was bursting at the seams. When I finally arrived at my destination, I realized I had brought way too much stuff, and half of it was dedicated to protecting my eyewear. It was a wake-up call. I knew I needed to find a more efficient system.

My Eyewear Packing Solutions: Protection and Space Saving

After much trial and error, I've found a few things that work for me. The biggest game-changer was switching to a triangular folding case for my glasses. I found a great one online; these cases are structurally strong and fold flat when not in use, which saves a ton of space. If you're looking for a similar solution, check out options online. The triangular shape really does make a difference in terms of protection within a packed bag.

I've also started using a water bottle to store my glasses during travel days. It sounds strange, but it works! I have a wide-mouth Tupperware bottle that’s perfect for holding a pair of glasses or sunglasses. Once I unpack at my destination, I can use the water bottle as intended. This method might not be practical for frequent short trips, but it's great for longer journeys.

Another thing I've considered is using Pair eyewear with sunglass toppers. This would eliminate the need for separate prescription sunglasses, which could save space. I haven't tried this yet, but it's definitely on my list.

I also learned about hard cases that can accommodate two pairs of glasses. I usually put one of these in a water bottle pocket, assuming one pair is always on my face. This has been a good way to keep two pairs secure without taking up a ton of room.

I also came across the Nite Ize Clip Case Hardshell XL Optics Case which clips onto a backpack strap. I haven't personally used it but it looks like a great option for keeping glasses easily accessible. It's on my list to try for future trips.

The Importance of Blue Light Blocking Glasses

With the rise of digital devices, I've found that blue light blocking glasses are essential for travel, especially on long flights or train rides where I'm constantly looking at screens. I recently discovered the Cinily Collection and their selection of stylish and functional eyewear. They offer a variety of options, including cat-eye frames with anti-blue light lenses. I really appreciate finding a brand that combines fashion and function. You can find a similar product at Cinily Net. The Cat Eye Anti-Blue Light Blocking Glasses from Cinily Net are a great option for protecting your eyes from harmful blue light emitted by screens. The TR90 optical frame is lightweight and durable, making them perfect for travel. I like how they combine style and functionality, and they've become a staple in my travel kit.

Practical Tips for Packing Glasses Light

Here are some practical tips I've learned for packing glasses light:

• Prioritize: Decide which pairs of glasses are essential for your trip.
• Use hard cases: Invest in good-quality hard cases to protect your glasses.
• Consider folding cases: Triangular folding cases are structurally strong and save space.
• Utilize water bottles: Repurpose a water bottle as a temporary glasses case.
• Wear them: Wear your bulkiest pair of glasses during travel to save space in your bag.

Pros and Cons of Different Packing Methods

Method	Pros	Cons
Hard Cases	Excellent protection	Takes up a lot of space
Folding Cases	Good protection, saves space when not in use	May not be as protective as hard cases
Water Bottle	Repurposes an existing item, provides decent protection	Not ideal for frequent short trips
Wearing Them	Saves space in your bag	Risk of damage if not careful

My Essential Eyewear Packing List

Here's a breakdown of what I usually pack for a typical trip:

1. My everyday glasses (worn during travel).
2. Prescription sunglasses (in a hard case).
3. Anti-blue light glasses (in a folding case).
4. A microfiber cleaning cloth.

My Experience Summarized: Finding the Right Balance

Packing glasses for one bag travel is all about finding the right balance between protection and space-saving. I've learned that it's okay to experiment and find what works best for you. Don't be afraid to try different methods and see what fits your travel style. The key is to prioritize protection without sacrificing too much space.

Conclusion: Pack Smart, Travel Light

I hope my experiences and tips have been helpful. Remember, traveling light doesn't mean sacrificing your vision or style. With a little planning and the right gear, you can easily pack your glasses without adding unnecessary bulk to your bag. So, go forth and explore the world, one bag and a pair of glasses at a time! Now I can enjoy my travels without worrying about my glasses. It's a great feeling.