Nowadays, eyeglasses are worn for comfort, function, and personal style.

Fashion magazine WWD notes a recent trend of vintage eyewear with archival styles from designer brands like Chanel , Dior, Gucci, and Giorgio Armani, mainly among Millennial and Gen Z consumers buying their frames from online resellers.

This demand has influenced the broader eyewear industry to create more fashion-forward styles and designs — not just for sunglasses but even prescription glasses that can serve as day-to-day fashion accessories.

That said, designer eyewear is not cheap, and its price tag often increases its exclusivity.

With designer sunglasses and eyeglasses becoming more sought after, you may be looking to buy a pair for your next vacation.

Our “Keeping The Whole Family Safe During Summer Travel” post highlights the importance of sun protection when traveling, as the sun’s harmful rays can affect your well-being while you’re on vacation.

A designer pair comes with style, durability, and high-quality sun protection, making them fantastic investments for travel. Fortunately, wearing designer glasses doesn’t mean you have to break the bank.

As this article will show you, there are ways to protect your eyes, stay fashionable, and save money while procuring the designer eyewear you so desire for your vacation.

Look for deals online

The price points for designer eyewear can get relatively high at full price, but there are ways to buy them at a lower cost to ensure they don’t impact your travel budget.

With more optical retailers expanding their services online, it’s easier to score a sweet deal on high-end frames by occasionally checking their websites. Some online shops have a dedicated section on their websites for discounted designer eyewear at outlet pricing up to 50% off.

The collection ranges from the timeless Ray-Ban aviators and wayfarers to chic cat-eye frames from designers like Prada, Miu Miu, and Dolce & Gabbana.

For a sportier look, brands like Oakley have a great selection of high-end sports performance and lifestyle shades.

Buying shades from their Oakley sunglasses sale can help you shave up to 50% off the price.

Aside from keeping your eye out for selection changes and special promos, many retailers offer an instant discount on your first purchase if you join their mailing list.

Consider which add-ons you really need

When you shop for eyewear, the options don’t just begin and end with frames and lenses.

Many retailers will encourage you to upgrade your lens with protective features like anti-reflective coating, photochromic treatment, and blue-light filtering. Some of these treatments can be tempting when looking for designer vacation eyewear since they can ensure more visual comfort or protection.

However, since you’re already planning on paying a significant amount for designer frames, take your time to consider which of these add-ons will benefit you the most.

For instance, Verywell Health’s insights on anti-glare glasses explain that they can be worth the extra cost if you want to enhance the clarity of your vision, even when you’re driving at night or using a computer for extended periods.

Otherwise, research and keep your budget in mind before opting for additional features or coatings.

Consider secondhand frames

Fashionable doesn’t always mean brand new, so you can try getting your designer eyewear for less by buying them used or secondhand. Doing so can help you buy your desired glasses or shades without breaking the bank, so you still have enough to splurge on your trip.

Reselling platforms like eBay and Depop can be a treasure trove of pre-loved luxury goodies, but make sure that the glasses are in excellent condition and the photos match what’s described in the listing.

Most online resellers for luxury eyewear are willing to send proof that the item they’re selling is authentic, so don’t hesitate to ask.

Once you’ve purchased your discounted pair of designer glasses, it helps to get them re-fitted to match your features and measurements better.

Use vision insurance

Bringing designer eyewear with you on vacation can be a little nerve-wracking.

There’s a chance that it can get damaged or broken, leading to a more significant dent in your wallet by paying twice for the purchase and another expense for repairs.

Fortunately, many providers offer vision insurance plans to help cover the costs of eye exams, eyeglass frames, and lenses.

According to Investopedia, vision insurance plans have an allowance of $120 to $200, at an average premium of $14 per month.

Before you buy your frames, it helps to check whether your preferred retailer, eye doctor, or vision center is part of your insurance network.

While your vision insurance benefits can’t cover the total price of designer eyewear, it may help lower your out-of-pocket costs, especially if you plan on updating your prescription every one or two years.