5 Reasons Why Sunglasses Are A Travel Essential for a Round-the-World Trip

Veteran travelers know that half of a successful trip lies in proper planning and having the right gear. From the luggage you bring to the items you pack, these travel essentials can make or break what’s supposed to be a fun adventure. In a previous post, we explained how to pick the right luggage, considering things like your style of travel, ease of access, size, and material. Today, we’ll be talking about another travel essential that should be on the packing list of anyone wanting to embark on a round-the-world trip – sunglasses. Here are five reasons why this accessory is a travel must-have: 

Guard against UV rays

First, it’s important to establish the main reason for wearing sunglasses, which is to protect your eyes from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays. Whether you’re island hopping in Hawaii or skiing on the slopes of the Swiss Alps, one thing that remains constant is the sun. In fact, a study published in the Journal of Travel Medicine highlights that skiers and beachgoers are at risk of UV keratitis, a photochemical injury resulting from high-dose UV radiation. The best way to prevent UV-related eye damage is by wearing sunglasses labeled UV 400, denoting 100% protection from both UVA and UVB rays. For this, opt for reputable brands like Ray-Ban or Maui Jim, which offers 100% protection across their sunglasses range. 

Cut down on glare

If your round-the-world itinerary involves canoeing on Moraine Lake, hiking the Inca Trail, or any other activity that requires utmost vision and clarity, you’ll need a pair of sunglasses that can keep up. Not all sunglasses are created equal; some serve a purely aesthetic purpose, while others are made with performance in mind. Take durable sports sunglasses such as the Flak 2.0 XL and Radar EV Path by Oakley. These sunglasses are equipped with polarized lenses to reduce glare and enhance contrast, all while offering top-notch UV protection. Additionally, Oakley lenses are tested for impact protection, ensuring your vision safety under a wide range of demanding conditions. 

Ideal for all kinds of weather

As we mentioned earlier, sunglasses protect your eyes from the sun’s UV rays. A common misconception about UV rays is that they only pose a threat in sunny weather. In reality, UV rays are invisible, and they can hurt your eyes even in overcast and snowy conditions. If you expect to be traveling to locations with varying weather conditions, like Costa Rica or Greece, it’s wise to invest in sunglasses with photochromic lenses like the Oakley Plazma. Unlike typical sunglasses that stay one color, photochromic sunglasses darken and lighten depending on their exposure to direct sunlight, making them an ideal travel companion.

Protect your eyes from debris

Ophthalmologist Dr. Shanel Sharma stresses that sun protection isn’t the only thing that sunglasses are good for, as there are a range of eye injuries associated with outdoor activities. For travelers, this may mean exposure to wind, dust, and debris, all of which are a concern when partaking in activities like skydiving or off-roading in the deserts of Dubai. Wraparound sunglasses like the RB4335 by Ray-Ban, in particular, provide an excellent barrier against these elements, reducing the risk of irritation, dryness, or injury to the eyes. 

Round out your travel outfits

Lastly, it’s hard to ignore the stylish edge that a pair of sunglasses can bring to your travel wardrobe. Even if you’re wearing something casual like joggers and a sweater à la Kendall Jenner for your airport outfit, sunglasses can elevate and add polish to your look. For stylish sunglasses that won’t look out of place during treks and sightseeing trips, Ray-Ban Aviators or the BE4251Q round frames by Burberry are the way to go. 

Overall, sunglasses are an essential travel accessory for many reasons, safeguarding travelers’ eyes from UV rays, glare, and environmental elements in all types of weather conditions. Before you jet off to your next destination, invest in a high-quality pair to ensure optimal eye health and comfort in your travel experience.