How to Find Your Perfect Travel Sunglasses

Clear skies and sunny weather have long been the favored weather conditions for travel. Trips to tropical destinations are always in demand for year-round sunlight, and many spend summer vacations out of town or abroad. In 2023, around 85% of Americans planned a trip for the summer and 44% considered doing so more than once. But when the sun is out, the risk for UV-related ailments increases. Slathering on sunscreen can protect your skin, but your eyes also need protection. Sunglasses are a must-have for any vacation, no matter where you go and what season you travel. But before you buy the first pair of shades you lay eyes on, it’s important to consider certain factors to find a suitable and stylish frame. Here’s how to find your perfect travel sunglasses:

Travel-friendly features

Before buying a pair of sunglasses, you’d want to ensure that they’re suitable for every aspect of travel. Your main priority should be UV protection; look for a label that indicates the shades have 100% UVA and UVB protection before anything else. If you’re spending most of your trip outside, prolonged exposure can cause pain and discomfort and increase your risk of eye conditions. Aside from safety, a frame that is comfortable, secure, and fits well allows you to wear them for an extended period and won’t get in your way. The accessories it comes with, such as the case, are also something to consider. When packing your sunglasses, you should put them in a hard case to keep them from breaking in your bag. Buying any pair from a convenience store or gas station may not provide you with a case or cleaning cloth, so you should consider a reputable brand that includes them in your purchase. You’re also guaranteed a more durable frame if you buy from a trusted retailer—a must for keeping your sunglasses in their best condition wherever you go!

Style

Different travelers prefer different activities; you may enjoy the more leisurely side of it and enjoy sightseeing or food trips, or you could be the adventurous type eager for active and thrilling experiences. Depending on your travel preferences, you can look for a pair of sunglasses with a style that matches them. A classic silhouette like the Guci GG0687S can be fashionable and protective during more laid-back moments like lounging by the pool or taking a tour of the city. Sport sunglasses like the Oakley Radar EV Path with a wraparound frame can be a top choice for hikes, watersports, cycling, and other adventurous activities since they’re built to withstand and protect you from sun and debris. If you’re one of the many who enjoy traveling in style, a chic oversized frame or a vintage-inspired browline model can elevate any look. Considering your lifestyle and preferences can also help you choose sunglasses you’ll wear even beyond your trip. 

Versatility

Sunglasses can elevate your travel look and express personal style. While it can be tempting to go for the trending sunglasses styles or steal the look of the shades worn by Hollywood elite and music industry stars, they might only stay in fashion for a short time. When traveling, it can be hard to style super trendy frames if they can’t complement your clothes and their various combinations. It’s best to choose a versatile frame that can fit any look and occasion. Timeless sunglasses styles like the Ray-Ban Wayfarers or Aviators have stood the test of time and have been a popular choice for decades. Other models like the cat-eye, round, and oversized have also long been on the fashion radar, and there are various versions and approaches to these frames; there’s bound to be one that can suit your style. You can also wear these versatile shades with all sorts of outfits, from casual to dressy, so you only need to pack one pair, keeping it light.