Corrective eyewear is essential for millions of people—but the cost can quickly add up. Between eye exams, new prescriptions, frames, lenses, and contact refills, vision care can become a significant yearly expense. The good news? With smart choices and a few insider tips, you can save a lot without sacrificing quality or comfort.
Whether you're updating your glasses, buying your first pair, or restocking contact lenses, here’s how to cut costs while still taking care of your eyes.
Know What Your Insurance Covers
Before you spend anything, check your vision insurance—if you have it.
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Many plans cover eye exams annually or every two years.
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Some provide allowances for frames and lenses, or discounts on contacts.
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You may be eligible for reimbursement if you purchase from out-of-network providers.
If you don’t have vision insurance, look into vision discount plans. These are often offered through employers or memberships and can cut costs significantly.
Shop Around for Eye Exams
Eye exams are necessary, but prices vary widely.
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Independent optometrists, retail chains, and big-box stores all offer exams, sometimes with promotions.
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Some retailers offer discounted or bundled exam and eyewear packages.
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If you only need a prescription update, you may not need a full eye health screening.
Don't assume the first option is the most affordable—comparison shopping for exams can save $50 or more.
Consider Buying Glasses Online
Once you have your prescription, you don’t need to buy your glasses at the same place.
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Online retailers often sell frames and lenses for a fraction of in-store prices.
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Many offer virtual try-on tools so you can see how the glasses will look on your face.
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You’ll find more frequent promotions, clearance deals, and budget-friendly options.
If you’re hesitant, try ordering a backup pair online first to test the experience.
Use Your FSA or HSA Dollars
If you have a flexible spending account (FSA) or health savings account (HSA), you can use those funds for:
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Prescription glasses
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Prescription sunglasses
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Contact lenses
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Eye exams
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Contact lens solution and cleaning supplies
Since these funds are tax-advantaged, using them can cut your out-of-pocket expenses by 20–30%.
Don’t Overpay for Lens Add-Ons
Many eyewear retailers upsell optional lens features like:
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Anti-glare coating
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Blue light filtering
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Transition lenses
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High-index lenses for stronger prescriptions
Some are useful—but not all are necessary. Evaluate which features you truly need. For example, if you mostly wear your glasses indoors, you may not benefit from photochromic lenses.
Reuse Frames When Possible
Frames often outlast your prescription.
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If your current frames are in good shape, ask your optician if they can be re-lensed.
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Some retailers charge less for lenses if you supply your own frame.
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This approach saves you the cost of new frames, which can be one of the biggest eyewear expenses.
It also lets you keep a style you already love.
Take Advantage of BOGO and Sales
Many eyewear providers offer buy-one-get-one (BOGO) deals.
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These are especially helpful for families with multiple glasses wearers.
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You can get a backup pair for yourself or share a second pair with a spouse or child.
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Seasonal sales around back-to-school or holidays often include significant discounts.
Watch for promotions from both online and in-store retailers. Timing your purchase can save you 30–50%.
Be Smart with Contact Lens Orders
Contact lenses can be a recurring expense, so it’s worth finding savings.
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Buying in bulk usually offers a discount over ordering monthly.
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Compare prices between online retailers and your optometrist’s office.
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Look for manufacturer rebates, which can save $50 or more per annual supply.
Also, consider switching to a more affordable lens brand if your prescription allows it. Generic and store-brand lenses may offer similar quality at a lower cost.
Keep Your Prescriptions Updated—but Not Too Often
Prescriptions are typically valid for 1–2 years, depending on local laws and your optometrist.
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Updating too soon can mean unnecessary spending.
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But letting prescriptions expire may lead to vision issues and the inability to buy contacts or glasses.
Stay within the recommended time frame to ensure you’re getting what you need without extra costs.
Clean and Care for Your Eyewear
Proper care helps your glasses and contacts last longer.
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Use a microfiber cloth and lens cleaning spray to avoid scratching your lenses.
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Store glasses in a protective case when not in use.
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Follow the manufacturer’s schedule for replacing contacts—don’t stretch wear time to save money, as this can lead to infections and bigger costs later.
Maintenance is key to longevity, comfort, and lower long-term expenses.
Ask About Student, Military, or Senior Discounts
Many eyewear retailers offer special discounts for:
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Students
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Active or retired military members
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Seniors or AARP members
Always ask. These discounts aren’t always advertised but can be applied at checkout.
Don’t Skip Prescription Sunglasses
It may seem like a luxury, but prescription sunglasses can save you money in the long run.
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They prevent you from needing to wear contacts under non-prescription sunglasses.
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They reduce eye strain in bright light and protect against UV damage.
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You’ll save by not needing clip-ons or constantly switching between glasses and shades.
Watch for sales and consider ordering them online to reduce the cost.
Use a Spare Pair as a Backup
Having a backup pair of glasses is more than convenient—it’s also economical.
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If your primary pair breaks or is lost, having a spare prevents a last-minute emergency purchase.
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Keep older prescriptions that are still wearable as your backup.
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You can also buy a cheap extra pair during promotions.
Planning ahead means avoiding full-price panic buys when accidents happen.
Good vision doesn’t have to come at a high price. With a bit of strategy, comparison shopping, and attention to your prescription timeline, you can keep your eyewear costs manageable. Whether you wear glasses, contacts, or both, a little planning makes a big financial difference.
Focus on value—not just the sticker price—and make choices that give you the best combination of comfort, quality, and savings. With the right habits, you’ll see clearly without overspending.