Where to Buy Cheap Contact Lenses
You can purchase contact lenses both in-store and online. Popular retail stores like Walmart, Costco Vision Centers, Walgreens, and local optometrist offices offer contacts. Shopping in-store is a good option if you need an eye exam and prescription, saving you time and hassle by getting everything done in one place.
However, if you’re looking to save money, buying contact lenses online is the best option. Online prices are often 50% cheaper than in-store, and it’s convenient if you already have a prescription—just order online, and your lenses will be delivered to your home.
Best Places to Buy Cheap Contact Lenses Online
If you decide to buy cheap contact lenses online, there are many options to choose from. Some popular stores include:
Walmart, Costco, and Walgreens: These retail giants sell contact lenses online, often at lower prices than their in-store counterparts.
Specialized Online Stores: Websites like 1800Contacts, Coastal, LensDirect, DiscountContactLenses, OptiContacts, Contactsdirect, and Lens.com typically offer better deals than traditional retailers. Many of these stores also carry colored contacts, although Halloween contacts may not be available everywhere.
How to Choose the Best Online Store for Cheap Contacts
When choosing an online store for contact lenses, consider the following factors:
Price: Prices vary across stores due to intense competition. Always compare prices to ensure you're getting the best deal.
Customer Service: Look for reviews and feedback on the store’s customer service. A legitimate store should have clear contact information, including a phone number, address, and active social media profiles.
Product Quality: While most reputable stores sell the same brands of contact lenses, ensuring you choose a legitimate retailer will ensure the quality and safety of your contacts.
Stores to Avoid When Buying Cheap Contacts Online
Be cautious of online stores that:
Lack contact information or customer support details.
Are located outside of the USA, which can lead to issues with returns, shipping, and customer service.
Sell contacts without a prescription, which is illegal and may lead to poor-quality products.
Don’t have customer reviews or a track record of reliable service.
Sell contact lens brands not approved by the FDA, such as Hubble or Daysoft.
How to Buy Cheap Contact Lenses Online
To buy cheap contact lenses online, you need a valid prescription. Once you have it, follow these steps:
Choose the contact lens brand and quantity you need from an online store.
Enter your prescription details (make sure to double-check this step).
Provide your optometrist’s name and contact details for prescription verification.
If you're unsure about your prescription, you can send a scanned copy to customer service for clarification.
Once your order is verified, the store will ship your lenses directly to your home.
Using Insurance to Buy Cheap Contacts Online
Yes, you can use insurance benefits when buying cheap contacts online. Most online stores accept vision insurance plans, and you can get reimbursed by your insurance company for your contact lens purchases. If you use FSAs, HSAs, or similar plans, you can pay from your special account and save money.
How to Return Cheap Contact Lenses
If you need to return your cheap contact lenses, here’s what you should know:
Custom lenses (RGP and other specialized types) are generally non-returnable unless defective.
Standard contacts can be returned in most cases, but check the store’s return policy first. Some stores will accept returns or exchanges if your prescription changes or if you haven’t used the lenses yet.
Conclusion
Buying cheap contact lenses online can save you up to 50% or more on your annual contact lens expenses. With the added convenience of home delivery and the ability to use insurance benefits, shopping online is a smart, cost-effective option for many people. Just remember to choose a reputable store, compare prices, and ensure your prescription is accurate.