One-Bag Travel: My Solution for Packing Glasses

Packing light is my travel mantra. I love the freedom of moving quickly and easily, without being weighed down by bulky luggage. But there's always one thing that throws a wrench in my minimalist plans: my glasses. Or rather, glasses plural. I need my everyday pair, my reading glasses, and prescription sunglasses. Figuring out how to protect them without adding a ton of bulk has been a years-long quest. I've finally found some solutions that work for me, and I'm excited to share them.

The Great Glasses Conundrum

I used to dread packing my glasses. They’re essential for me to function, let alone enjoy my travels. I need to see! But their fragile nature meant I had to devote precious space to bulky hard cases. I was constantly worried about them getting crushed in my bag. Sound familiar?

My initial approach was simple: dedicate the space and hope for the best. But it felt wasteful and inefficient. I needed a better way to protect my eyewear without sacrificing valuable packing space. I tried a few things that didn't quite work, like stuffing them in socks (don't do that!). The quest for the perfect solution consumed me.

My Hard-Earned Solutions

After much trial and error, and a few close calls with bent frames, I've landed on a combination of strategies that keeps my glasses safe and my bag light. Here's what I've learned:

The Power of a Hard Case (and Strategic Placement)

This might seem obvious, but a good hard case is non-negotiable. I've found that using hard cases inside my bag is essential. It's the first line of defense against bumps and bruises. I even started using a triangular folding case that is structurally strong. I found a similar one on Amazon that folds flat when not in use.

I realized that where I placed the case was just as important. I started putting one in a water bottle pocket on my backpack. Since I always have a water bottle with me, this was a smart use of space. I'm assuming one pair is usually on my face anyway.

Embracing Multi-Functional Solutions

Thinking outside the box (or case, in this instance) led me to some unexpected discoveries. For example, I considered using a water bottle! I have a Tupperware one with a wide mouth that's perfect for storing glasses or sunglasses during travel days. When I arrive at my destination, I can simply empty it and use it for its intended purpose. This might not be ideal for frequent short trips, but it works well for longer stays.

Speaking of thinking outside the box, when I'm looking for new frames, I like to check out options that are both stylish and durable. I recently saw the ELECCION Titanium Half Frame. The titanium frame really stood out to me, because it seems like a good balance of lightweight and strong. It makes me think they would be ideal for travel, and I also think they look great.

Simplifying My Eyewear Arsenal

Another approach I've taken is to streamline my eyewear collection. While I love having options, I realized I could potentially reduce the number of pairs I travel with. For camping trips, I’ve switched to Pair eyewear, which has a sunglass "topper" that attaches to my main pair of glasses. That eliminates my prescription sunglasses, which helps a little bit. Backpacking or camping sites might have other solutions as well.

I also came across the Nite Ize Clip Case Hardshell XL Optics Case. Clipping a case like this to the front of my backpack strap could be a useful way to keep my glasses accessible and safe. I haven't tried it yet, but it's definitely on my radar.

My Top Tips for Traveling with Glasses

Here’s a summary of my best tips for packing glasses when traveling light:

• Invest in quality hard cases: Don't skimp on protection.
• Utilize unexpected spaces: Water bottle pockets and other nooks can be perfect for storing your glasses.
• Consider multi-functional solutions: Explore options like clip-on sunglasses to reduce the number of pairs you need to pack.
• Think about durable frames: When purchasing new glasses, consider the material and construction. A titanium frame, like on the homepage, could be a good choice.
• Prioritize: Decide which pairs are absolutely essential and leave the rest at home.

Pros and Cons of Different Packing Methods

Method	Pros	Cons
Hard Case in Main Bag	Maximum protection	Takes up significant space
Hard Case in Water Bottle Pocket	Utilizes otherwise unused space, easily accessible	Might not be suitable for large glasses cases
Water Bottle Storage	Multi-functional, keeps glasses separate from other items	Only practical for longer trips, requires a wide-mouth bottle
Clip-on Sunglasses	Reduces the need for a separate pair of sunglasses	May not be as stylish or comfortable as dedicated sunglasses

What I’ve Learned

Packing glasses for one-bag travel is a balancing act between protection and space efficiency. It's a personal process, and what works for one person might not work for another. The key is to experiment, be resourceful, and find solutions that fit your individual needs and travel style. I've found that the right case and smart packing can make all the difference. I think that Cinily Net has nice frames, and that could be a good place to start.

Ultimately, I've learned that I can travel light without sacrificing my eyesight (or my style!). It just takes a little planning and a willingness to get creative.

Final Thoughts

Don't let your glasses hold you back from embracing the freedom of one-bag travel! With a little ingenuity, you can keep your eyewear safe, your bag light, and your adventures clear and comfortable. Safe travels!