How to Pack Sunglasses for Travel: Best Tips & Tricks

Why Sunglasses Deserve More Thought When You Pack

We’ve all done it—shoved our sunglasses into a side pocket of a bag, only to pull them out scratched, bent, or worse. They’re small, yes, but sunglasses are among the most frequently used—and frequently damaged—travel items.

More than just fashion, sunglasses protect your eyes from UV rays and help you move confidently through changing light conditions. They also round out your travel look, whether you're sightseeing in the city or lounging beachside. So why not treat them with the same care you give to your clothes, tech, or toiletries?

In this guide, we’re sharing travel-tested tips to help you keep your sunglasses in excellent shape. From choosing the right case to knowing exactly where to place them in your luggage, every step makes a difference.

Start with the Right Case: Hard Shell > Soft Pouch

First things first: your sunglasses deserve their own case. The case you pick determines how well your shades survive the bumps, pressure, and chaos of travel. A solid, structured case—like a hard shell—is the best bet for full protection.
Look for lightweight materials like polycarbonate or reinforced plastic that won’t weigh down your bag but can still handle rough handling. A snug fit is key—too much room and the glasses move around inside, increasing the chance of damage.
The interior should be soft and scratch-resistant. A microfiber lining doubles as a surface that cleans while it cushions. It’s a small detail, but one that keeps your lenses looking sharp.
Soft pouches can work too—especially for light packers—but they don’t offer protection from impact. If you use one, make sure it goes in a padded pocket or the center of your bag surrounded by soft items.

Where You Place Them Matters

Once you've got a good case, think about where it’s going. The middle of your suitcase, between rolled-up clothes, is ideal. It's cushioned on all sides and away from the edges where heavier pressure is applied during baggage handling.
Avoid tossing your sunglasses case near shoes, toiletries, chargers, or books. Even with a case, extended pressure or contact with hard edges can leave marks, shift the frame, or cause small cracks you don’t notice until later.
If you’re carrying a backpack or handbag, tuck the case into a zippered inner pocket or a spot with soft padding. Some bags even have a designated sunglasses compartment—if yours does, make use of it.

Packing Sunglasses Without a Case? Here’s a workaround:

Let’s say you’re in a hurry or forgot your case—don’t worry. You can still keep your sunglasses protected.

Wrap them in soft fabric: A clean scarf, a microfiber cloth, or even a rolled-up tee can offer temporary protection.

Tuck them deep in your clothing layer: Avoid the outermost sections of your luggage and instead hide them inside your most cushioned clothing pile.

This won’t give you the same level of safety as a case, but it’s much better than leaving them exposed. Just remember to clean the lenses before use—clothes can leave lint or fibers behind.

Bring a Microfiber Cloth—Always

If there’s one tiny item that can save your sunglasses over and over again, it’s a microfiber cloth.

Even when stored properly, lenses can pick up smudges, dust, or sunscreen residue. Wiping them with a shirt or tissue may cause micro-scratches over time. A dedicated microfiber cloth is gentle and effective—and so small, it fits right in the case. Pack one (or two!) and keep them somewhere accessible. You'll likely reach for it more than you think.

Sunglasses Travel Hacks for Frequent Flyers

If you're on the move a lot, these extra tricks can help:

Multi-pair travel cases: Carrying more than one pair? Use a structured case with compartments to prevent them from knocking into each other.

Clip-on holders: Some sunglass holders attach to your belt or bag strap. They're handy for long airport days, hikes, or city exploring.

Don’t pack them in checked luggage: Always place your sunglasses in your carry-on. Checked bags get tossed, stacked, and squeezed—and that’s no place for your favorite pair.

Sunglass strap for active trips: For beach days or hikes, a strap keeps your sunglasses around your neck when not in use. It may not be stylish, but it’s practical.

How to Choose Sunglasses That Travel Well

Even before packing comes picking. The right travel sunglasses are durable, lightweight, and versatile. Think frames that don’t pinch after hours of wear and lenses that handle different light conditions.

Consider polarized lenses to reduce glare, especially if your trip includes water, snow, or long drives. Scratch-resistant coatings and flexible hinges also help sunglasses survive the wear and tear of travel.

Neutral frames—black, brown, or tortoiseshell—go with most outfits. But if you like a bold statement, pack a second pair with a pop of color or a unique frame style.

And If You’re Still Looking for the Right Pair...

Not all sunglasses are made for travel. Some look great but don’t hold up well on the go. Others are practical but lack the style you want in your vacation photos.

That’s where Chokore comes in.

With a curated collection of sunglasses for men online that blend durability, comfort, and standout design, Chokore offers sunglasses for men that’s built to move. From sleek aviators to structured square frames, every pair is made with careful attention to detail and quality. Whether you're on a quick weekend trip or heading off on a two-week adventure, Chokore's sunglasses are designed to pack well, wear better, and go wherever the journey takes you.

Final Thought: A Small Item Worth Big Protection

Fashion accessories for men and women play a big role when you travel. Sunglasses protect your eyes, elevate your style, and often become your most-worn item during the day. So don’t leave their safety to chance. Pack them with care. Choose a case that fits your lifestyle. Use simple tricks to prevent scratches and damage. And most importantly, pick a pair that feels just right—for your face, your outfits, and your adventures. Explore Chokore’s full collection of eyewear for men online and find a pair that’s not just stylish, but travel-ready too.

Because the best sunglasses are the ones that make it through the trip—looking as good as you do.

Published: Thu, May 08, 2025