There’s no doubt that prescription glasses and contacts can be expensive.
A basic pair of glasses can start at around $100; if you need bifocals or progressive lenses, the price can jump to $200 or more.
Add in the cost of annual eye exams, contact lens fittings, and supplies, and you’re looking at a pretty sizable investment of hundreds of dollars each year.
But there are ways to save money on glasses and contacts, whether you’re looking for a new pair or just trying to keep your costs down on your current prescription.
Here are five tips to help you save:
1. Avoid Designer Brands
One way to immediately save on the cost of glasses is to avoid designer brands.
While it can be tempting to buy a pair of $200 glasses from a high-end designer, you’re essentially paying for the name – not the quality.
Many non-designer brands use the same materials and processes as their more expensive counterparts.
So, unless you’re looking for a very specific style, there’s no need to spend the extra money on a designer label.
2. Take Advantage of Free Adjustments and Repairs
If you purchase a pair of glasses from a brick-and-mortar store, be sure to take advantage of any free adjustments and repairs.
Many stores will make minor adjustments for free, and some will even replace broken nose pads or screws at no charge.
If you have an issue with your glasses, it’s always worth asking if there’s anything that can be done to fix them or what their return policy is before you shell out for a new pair.
3. Look for Online Deals
Many retailers offer significant discounts when you purchase lenses or frames online. You can often find coupon codes or special promotions that save you even more money.
And since you’re not paying for the overhead of a brick-and-mortar store, online retailers can often offer lower prices even without a sale or promotion.
4. Reuse Frames
If you’re happy with the pair of frames you currently have, there’s no need to buy a new pair every time you get a new prescription.
Instead, take your old frames to an optical store and ask them to put new lenses in. This can be cheaper than buying an entirely new pair of glasses.
5. Check for Insurance Coverage
If you have vision insurance plans, take advantage of them.
Many policies will cover a certain amount towards the cost of glasses or contacts each year, and some will even cover the cost of an annual eye exam.
6. Look for Discounts
There are often discounts available for customers if you know where to look. Some employers offer vision discounts as a benefit to employees, so be sure to ask about that.
Many optical stores and contact lens companies also offer loyalty programs or other savings methods.
7. Buy in Bulk
If you wear contact lenses, buying them in bulk can save you a significant amount of money.
Many retailers offer discounts when you purchase a year’s supply of lenses; some will even throw in a free pair of glasses or other perks.
8. Compare Prices
When shopping for glasses or contacts, it’s important to compare prices. Call different optometrists so you can find the eye exam at the lowest price.
Optical stores can vary widely in pricing, so it’s worth shopping around and seeing who has the best deal.
The same is true for contact lenses and solutions — retailers often sell them at different price points.
9. Utilize Your HSA or FSA
If you have a health savings account (HSA) or flexible spending arrangement (FSA), you can use that money to pay for eyeglasses, contacts, and eye exams.
Using your HSA and FSA can be a great way to save if you expect to incur some vision-related expenses shortly.
10. Skip the Add-Ons
When at the optical store, resist the temptation to add on unnecessary extras.
For example, you might be offered an anti-glare coating for your glasses. But unless you have a specific need for it, this is something you can likely do without.
The same goes for some of the newly available lens options. While they might be tempting, they’re often not necessary and can add quite a bit to the cost of your glasses.
Following these tips can save you money on glasses and contacts without sacrificing quality or convenience. So take the time to shop around and find the best deals on the products you need.