According to the Vision Council of America, an estimated 75% of the worldwide adult population wear glasses or contact lenses to correct their vision. If you’re one of these people, you don’t have to spend a lot to take care of your sight.
Buying cheap prescription glasses, as opposed to designer frames, is a clear way to save money. But before you purchase your new eyeglasses, there are a few ways that you can save even more.
If you are still working and have health insurance at work, check to see what your benefits will cover. There’s a chance that your vision insurance will cover the full cost of your glasses, as well as eye exams.
Your eye doctor’s office likely has walls of glasses available for purchase. While there’s no harm in browsing the different frames to see what style best suits you, there is usually a significant mark up in prices if you purchase through them or from boutiques.
Avoid Buying from the Optometrist’s Office or Boutique Optician
Polycarbonate lenses, for example, already have UV-protection and are more durable than plastic lenses. Anti-glare or anti-reflective coating is one of the few upgrades that comes recommended.
The frames I wear all day, every day, were purchased over 10 years ago (and they were not cheap!). As my prescription changed, replacing the lenses cost me $100 – $150 every few years.