air travel with contact solution

Can I Bring Contact Lens Solution On A Plane? (TSA Rules)

Last Updated on September 3, 2022

So you are going traveling and want to know if you can bring contact solution on the airplane.

Let’s take a look at the rules.

TSA Contact Lens Solution Rules

The Transportation Security Administration usually restricts liquids, gels, and aerosols to containers 3.4 ounces or less. This is the so-called “3-1-1 Rule”.

I checked the TSA website to see what they say about solution for contact lenses.

Firstly, you can pack contact lens solution in checked luggage without restriction.

If you want to bring contact lens solution on a plane in your carry-on bag you have two choices.

• Pack bottles of solution that are 3.4 oz or less in your one quart-size plastic bag . You don’t need to inform the TSA security officers.
• Pack larger bottles of contact lens solution and you do need to inform the TSA security officer at the checkpoint. The TSA will perform additional screening and check any medically necessary liquids.

Travel Size Saline Solution

Normally with travel liquids I recommend decanting from larger bottles into smaller travel size bottles.

But with contact solution you need to keep it clean and sterile so new unopened bottles are better.

If you bring travel size bottles and pack them in your one quart-size bag then you won’t need to alert the TSA officer that you are carrying an oversize liquid.

The airport security screening process is stressful enough so packing a travel-sized bottle of contact lens solution in your quart-size bag is an easy solution.

One of these little bottles should last 1 person about 1 month.

Also, you’ll have a little peace of mind if you pack at least 1 travel-size bottle.

If you come across a TSA officer that doesn’t know about the medical liquids exemption and confiscates the large bottle you’ll still have the little bottle as a fallback.

Still Unsure? Ask The TSA

If you have further questions about what you can bring on a plane it’s easy to ask the TSA.

Just hop of Twitter and write to @AskTSA and they’ll get back to you quickly. It helps if you include a photo of the item you want to bring.

Mike asked if saline solution was exempt form the 3.4 ounce limit in carry-on bags.

The TSA replied that “bottles of saline solution are allowed in carry-on bags. You don’t have to place these items in your quart-sized liquids bag”.

This passenger asked about bringing daily disposable contact lenses in her carry-on bag.

Even though bubble packs of daily contact lenses contain liquid they don’t need to be packed in your plastic liquids bag.

In fact any liquid should be fine to bring on a plane so long as it is medically neccessary.

Patty was bringing eye drops and nasal spray and was told that “medications don’t have to be placed in your quart-sized bag”.

The Verdict

Because contact lens solution is a medically necessary liquid you can bring it on the plane in quantities in excess of 3.4 ounces.

However this means that you need to inform the security officer at the checkpoint and have them perform additional screening on your bottle.

If 3.4 oz of solution will be a sufficient amount for your trip it might be easier just to pack a travel size bottle.

P.S. Don’t forget to pack your glasses just in case you need them.

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What to Know About Bringing Contact Lens Solution on a Plane

With over 45 million contact lens wearers in the USA and over 140 million worldwide, there are a lot of people wondering if they can bring contact lens solution on their next flight.

According to TSA regulations, you can bring contact lens solution on a plane in both your carry on and checked bags, though if packed in your carry on, the bottle should be no larger than 3.4oz/100ml.

However, if the contact lens solution is deemed “medically necessary”, you can bring larger bottles.

If you wear contacts, there is much more you need to know, though, to make sure that your next flight goes as smoothly as possible, including whether the type of contact lens solution and contact lens you wear make a difference, and more.

Table of Contents

• 1 Bringing Contact Lens Solution in Your Carry on Bag
• 2 Bringing Contact Lens Solution in Your Checked Bag
• 3 Domestic vs. International Flights
• 4 Airline Regulations
• 5 Avoid Putting Contact Solution in a Travel Bottle
• 6 No Need to Put Contact Lenses or Solution in Your Liquids Bag
• 7 The Type of Contact Lens Solution Doesn’t Matter
• 8 You Can Bring Contact Lenses on a Plane
• 9 The Type of Contact Lenses Don’t Matter
• 10 Be Careful When Wearing Contact Lenses on the Flight
• 11 Avoid Wearing Colored Contact Lenses
• 12 How to Pack Contact Lenses for Flying

Bringing Contact Lens Solution in Your Carry on Bag

The TSA have something called the 3-1-1 Rule that only permits passengers to bring liquids, including contact lens solution (as well as gels and aerosols), in containers that are no larger than 3.4oz/100ml in a 1-quart sized bag .

This means that if you pack contact lens solution in a container that exceeds this, it will be confiscated before you can pass airport security.

However, the TSA also state that they allow “larger amounts of medically necessary liquids, gels, and aerosols in reasonable quantities for your trip.”

This includes contact lens solution.

The caveat is that these must be prescribed, labelled and declared to security officers at the checkpoint for inspection.

Bringing Contact Lens Solution in Your Checked Bag

There are no restrictions if you want to pack contact solution in your checked bags.

So, this means that you can take however many bottles of solution you want in any size without running into any issues.

Domestic vs. International Flights

The TSA only has authority in the USA, so you might be wondering what the regulations are if you are traveling internationally.

Fortunately, regardless if you’re flying domestically in the USA or internationally, the same rules apply.

So, you are only allowed to bring contact lens solution in your carry on bag if it is in a container that is no larger than 3.4oz/100ml.

Airline Regulations

All airlines follow TSA regulations, which means that regardless if you’re flying with a regional or major air carrier, you can only bring contact lens solution on a plane in your carry on bags if the bottle does not exceed 3.4oz/100ml.

The same exceptions apply for medically necessary contact lens solution.

Avoid Putting Contact Solution in a Travel Bottle

While you can transfer contact solution from a larger bottle into a smaller, travel-friendly sized bottle to adhere to TSA regulations, it is not recommended.

This is because contact lens solution is sterile, so you may introduce contaminants as you transfer the solution, which would be very bad for your eyes.

Related: How Many 3 Oz Bottles Can You Take on a Plane?

No Need to Put Contact Lenses or Solution in Your Liquids Bag

According to the TSA, contact lens do not have to be placed in a quart-sized bag that is dedicated to liquids, gels, and aerosols.

Contact lens solution, however, should be place in your quart-sized bag.

The Type of Contact Lens Solution Doesn’t Matter

There are several types of contact lens solutions, including:

• Multipurpose contact lens solution
• Hydrogen peroxide-based contact lens solution
• Saline solution

Regardless of the type of contact lens solution you want to bring on a plane, the same rules apply.

This means that unless deemed medically necessary and appropriately labelled, you can only bring solution in containers that do no exceed 3.4oz/100ml in your carry on bag.

You Can Bring Contact Lenses on a Plane

If you pack your contact lenses in your checked bag and the bag gets lost, it can very quickly ruin your vacation.

Fortunately, according to the TSA, contact lenses are allowed in your carry on bags without any quantity limitations.

The Type of Contact Lenses Don’t Matter

There are several types of contact lenses, including:

• Soft contact lenses
• Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) Contact Lenses
• Extended Wear Contact Lenses
• Disposable (Replacement Schedule) Contact Lenses

It makes no difference what kind of contact lenses you wear, you can bring in any quantity in both your carry on and checked bags without any restrictions.

Be Careful When Wearing Contact Lenses on the Flight

You can wear contact lenses on a plane, but it might not be the best idea.

This is because air inside the cabin is very dry and can cause dry eyes, which can make the lenses tighten in your eye and cause microscopic tears to the cornea.

You may also drift off to sleep, and if you’re wearing any contacts other than extended wear ones, this can damage your eyes.

If you do happen to fall asleep while wearing contacts, take them out as soon as possible to let your eyes breathe.

Avoid Wearing Colored Contact Lenses

If you’re planning on wearing colored contact lens, it might not be the best idea.

This is because you may be asked to remove your contact lens when airport security personnel compare how you look on your ID compared to how you look in person to see the real color of your eyes.

It might not happen often, especially if you otherwise look exactly the same in your ID – i.e. you haven’t grown or shaved a beard, have a drastically different haircut etc. – but it’s still a possibility.

How to Pack Contact Lenses for Flying

• Pack your contact lenses (as well as solution and glasses) in your carry on instead of your checked bag.
• If not possible, pack at least a supply of contact lenses for a week or two in your carry on, just in case your bag gets lost.
• Bring your prescription in case you need to purchase contact lenses abroad.
• Wear disposables on the plane, if you can.
• Don’t transfer solution into a smaller container due to sterility concerns.

Ella Dunham

Ella Dunham, a Freelance Travel Journalist and Marketing Manager, boasts an impressive career spanning eight years in the travel and tourism sectors.

Honored as one of "30 Under 30" by TTG Media (the world’s very first weekly travel trade newspaper), a "Tour Operator Travel Guru" and "Legend Award" winner, Ella is also a Fellow of the Institute of Travel, a Member of the Association of Women Travel Executives, has completed over 250 travel modules, and hosts travel-focused segments on national radio shows where she provides insights on travel regulations and destinations.

Ella has visited over 40 countries (with 10 more planned this year).

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If you have bad eyesight, as I do, packing can be a bit more complicated than for those with 20/20 vision .

I’ve worn contact lenses since I was 13 years old and have gotten the hang of it. Keeping up with that habit means I also have to pack contact lens solution when I travel- another liquid taking up space in my 3-1-1 toiletries bag.

But the advantages over glasses are plentiful, so I continue to make contact solution a priority on my packing list .

Traveling with contacts and contact lens solution doesn’t have to be a pain as long as you’re prepared. 

Quick Notes About Contacts

The types of contacts you have may affect the type and amount of contact lens solution you travel with.

• Hard Contacts: Hard contacts, also known as rigid gas permeable, were common early on in vision technology, but now are mostly reserved for specific conditions. They stay focused and don’t dry out eyes as much as soft contacts. They do, however, need to be “broken in” to give your eyes time to adjust. These contacts also require more upkeep than soft contacts and need different solution that may not be as easy to find while traveling.
• Soft Contacts: Soft contacts, on the other hand, are flexible and can get dislodged in your eyes. They’re much more common for all prescriptions and are fairly easily replaced. But because of their materials, they dry out much faster, especially while in dry places like airplanes. This means you are more likely to need eye drops in addition to your solution. They come in formats like dailies, which you change every day, and others that should be replaced every two weeks to a month. Dailies have their advantages, but take up more room in your luggage.

How to Travel with Contact Lens Solution

Traveling with contacts is only slightly inconvenient, but it’s traveling with solution that adds to your already limited TSA liquids bag . As always, we recommend taking only what you need, and also making sure your bottles are as leak-proof as possible.

The Solution? Pack travel sized bottles of contact lens solution.

It’s fairly easy to find TSA-approved bottles of solution at home, but not always overseas, especially in your preferred brand.

If this is the case, you may need to buy a full-size bottle of solution overseas (and pack it in your checked luggage or throw it away at the end of your trip if you’re traveling carry-on only ) or resort to wearing your glasses.

We don’t recommend decanting your contact lens solution from its original bottle due to hygiene reasons.

Don’t rely on your contact lens solution being a “medically necessary liquid” and therefore exempt from the 3-1-1 rule. 

While you may be lucky, some contact lens solutions will test positive for certain chemicals that are not allowed through the screening checkpoint. The TSA recommends only traveling with contact lens solution bottles of 3.4 oz or less in your carry-on luggage. I’ve had to throw my small container of contact solution away when traveling in the UK .

Things like this can vary by country and even by the agent you encounter when passing airport checkpoints.

Where to Find Contact Solution When You Travel

The more common solutions, like multi-purpose solution, are easily found in most countries, but will usually be a different brand. I’ve traveled through Australia , Asia , and Europe and never had trouble finding it . At stores like Boots and 7-Eleven, you should be able to find Western brands as well.

If you use a hydrogen peroxide system, however, you may need to bring enough to last for your entire trip. It pays to do your research before you go to make sure it’s available abroad. We suggest reaching out to the manufacturer to see if they know of the product’s distribution in the countries you intend to travel to.

In addition, people with sensitive eyes and allergies to certain solutions should pack enough for their trip unless they have confirmed the solution will be available at the destination. Otherwise, it might be a better option to forego contacts and stick to glasses for the brunt of a trip to cut back on the amount of liquids you actually need to pack .

Travel-Sized Contact Solution

The largest solution size we’ve found that fits a 3-1-1 bag is 2 oz. The next size up is 4 oz, which is larger than the 3.4 oz (100 ml) maximum. Even searching for “travel size contact solution 3 oz” results in a list of products of 2 or 4 ounces.

Carry-On Considerations: If you’re traveling carry-on only for your trip, you may want to pack multiple bottles of the 2 oz size solution into your 3-1-1 bag. This may mean that you have to pick up some other liquids at your destination (like shampoo, for example). Or you can invest in solid toiletries and not have to worry.

Here are some 2 oz options:

• Biotrue, 2 oz . You can buy singles or a pack of 4 for the same price per unit.
• Opti-Free Puremoist, 2 oz . This option comes with a free lens case.
• Renu MultiPlus, 2 oz, pack of 3 .

Contacts Cases

There are many contacts cases on the market, but the most important feature is a tight-fitting, leak-proof lid. Some come with a zippered container, tweezers, and a mirror for ease of taking out like this one on Amazon. I’ve personally found screw-top containers to be more secure than the hinged designs, but all cases differ. Test yours out prior to travel!

The biggest thing to remember when it comes to traveling with contacts is to change the solution and clean the case frequently to avoid infection and irritation. Also make sure to add solution so that they don’t accidentally dry out overnight.

Side note: Contact lens cases are great for people who don’t wear contacts, too! They can transport smaller amounts of cream makeup and lotions/potions to help you save space.

Additional Tips for Traveling with Contacts and Solution

• Always wash your hands with clean water before taking out or putting in your contacts. This can be a problem in developing countries, so you might want to travel with hand sanitizer or wet wipes . If you use hand sanitizer first, make sure your hands dry before touching contacts/eyes. Many recommend pouring a bit of contact solution over their fingers for extra cleansing.
• Change your contacts when your doctor recommends. I write the date that I should change contacts in marker on the blister pack as a reminder.
• Bring a backup pair of contacts and glasses. In case your contacts rip or you lose them, you’ll have both another pair and your glasses as a last resort.
• Pack your doctor’s prescription just in case. Most countries should let you refill your prescription overseas so it never hurts to have it. Also throw in your solution of choice so that you don’t have to use a random brand and so you can ask the pharmacist by showing them the bottle.
• Put your contacts and glasses in your carry-on , not your checked bag. You’d hate for your bags to get lost with your contacts inside! It’s also good to keep your contacts and solution with you to keep your flight comfortable .
• If your eyesight allows, a cheap pair of readers from the drugstore can be an easy alternative to your nice glasses for travel. It’s not so devastating if you break them (or lose them). Prescription sunglasses and goggles might be right for active travelers as well.

Tips for Traveling with Contacts On a Flight

• Consider using a lens re-wetting solution during the flight. This solution is thicker than a cleaning solution and may help your contacts feel more comfortable in dry airplane air.
• Wear glasses for long flights, especially if you’ll be sleeping. This will help prevent tears to the cornea and eye infections. You can put in your contacts once you land.
• Drink plenty of water so that your eyes stay hydrated.
• Wash your hands before touching your contacts, but don’t handle them in the airplane bathroom. It’s covered in germs. If you drop a contact in the airplane bathroom, it’s safer to throw it out and use a new one. 

Do you have any other tips for traveling with contacts and contact lens solution?

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Written by Caroline

Caroline Eubanks is a native of Atlanta, Georgia, but has also called Charleston, South Carolina and Sydney, Australia home. After college graduation and a series of useless part-time jobs, she went to Australia for a working holiday. In that time, she worked as a bartender, bungee jumped, scuba dived, pet kangaroos, held koalas and drank hundreds of cups of tea. You can find Caroline at Caroline in the City .

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Reader Interactions

August 31, 2016 at 8:27 pm

Eye infections are very serious. Never decant lens solution from one container into another. It will no longer be sterile and is a risk of infection. Also, use clean fresh solution every single day. If you are traveling somewhere where you wouldn’t drink the water, then be sure to dry your hands after washing and before inserting your lenses. Take extra pairs of lenses – they are not that expensive. Also, snap a photo of your prescription on your phone is n case you need it. Sleep in your lenses only rarely, and only if your eye doctor says it’s OK for you.

August 31, 2016 at 9:19 pm

If it’s not long term travel, dailies are worth every penny. I’ve had less discomfort, infection and itching since I switched and I no longer need to lug around solution with me (or before that, in earlier years, a heating unit). A month of dailies takes up very little room and is extremely light.

September 5, 2016 at 8:32 am

I carry a small eye-drop bottle with solution in it in my purse while out for the day. If a little dirt gets in your eye or your eyes start feeling dry, you can use this to save the day. It also makes a nice backup amount of solution. If it is a long or potentially rough day outdoors I also often bring a lens case and my glasses with me, just in case! I’d love to try the daily disposables for my next trip as it seems infinitely easier. As a tip for those coming to India where I live, eye solution is much more widely available now, but still not available in every medical shop. Worthwhile to get what you need in larger cities and towns before heading out. If you are struggling to find it in the local medical shop, try the chain beauty store Health and Glow (tell them to look as many employees don’t seem to know they carry it) or look for a place that sells eyeglasses as they most likely sell contacts and solution. Eye glasses can be a great bargain in India if you are looking for a backup pair!

November 17, 2020 at 8:01 pm

As others have mentioned, decanting eye solutions from one bottle to another is EXTREMELY dangerous and can lead to an eye infection that can blind you. Carry around unidose eye lubricant vials that you can open if your eye is irritated and you are on the roads.

September 10, 2016 at 1:47 am

Love this post! I wear hard contact lenses and user Clear Care (hydrogen peroxide) cleaner. I got rid of all of my toiletries to make room for 8-100ml sized bottles.

I left home with 4-100ml bottles and ran out in about 3 months. At the time, I was in Vietnam and went to about 10+ eye care stores and pharmacies – none of them carried Clear Care or AOSept (the brand in Asia). Long story short, here is the list of countries/places in Asia that carry AOSept or ClearCare that I’ve seen so far:

ClearCare: – Japan

AOSept: – Kuala Lumpur – Singapore – Hong Kong (I stocked up in HK on a 24-hour layover) – Taiwan

Hopefully this helps someone else looking for ClearCare while traveling!

September 13, 2016 at 9:17 am

THANK YOU for sharing that list! I’m sure it will help someone else in a similar situation.

October 9, 2016 at 4:57 pm

I just learned that a nighttime bonfire in the desert can mean a harsh wake up call in the morning. When I took them out at night no problem but even with clean hands in the morning it was a rough instillation!! I realized that there was probably schmootz on them from ash and sand and I never gave them a good wash before I put them back in my eyes! 😫

October 9, 2016 at 7:39 pm

That sounds painful!

December 8, 2016 at 12:05 am

I’ve never had an problem with solution passing as medically necessary. I use a 3 oz bottle and keep it in a separate ziplock bag. I’ve only tried in the US though.

October 22, 2017 at 7:01 pm

Thanks for posting this! I recently started wearing contacts and have been stressing about packing solutions for my 3 week backpacking trip next year.

December 29, 2016 at 6:14 pm

I used to be able to travel with my hydrogen peroxide contact cleaning solution with no problems. Recently had it confiscated at my home airport (failed the strip test) but replacement sailed through return airport (passed the strip test). I called my regional TSA headquarters and spoke with senior person to ask what the official position is – “I don’t know.” Basically, cross your fingers and hope for the best.

January 9, 2017 at 7:12 pm

Ugh how annoying! I think that’s it for everything- cross your fingers!

March 30, 2018 at 11:53 pm

I use extended wear astigmatism contacts and I pack my pairs in their sterile containers, I put in one pair, leave them in for the ~month I’m supposed to, take them out and never put them back in my eyes again and replace them with a new pair. So my best solution is no solution 😉 😉 (sorry, pardon the pun). I recommend extended wear contacts to anyone with an eye prescription, it’s like not needing glasses/contacts.

April 3, 2024 at 10:31 am

Hydrogen peroxide is not always allowed through security, and it can sometimes cause your bag to test positive. I wear rigid gas permeables, and have found that Sereine extra strength cleaner works well enough for during a vacation. However, it is very hard to find. This site has the best options: https://dryeyeshop.com/collections/lens-cleaning-disinfection . I also look for hydrogen peroxide in a pharmacy as soon as I land.

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UponArriving

Can You Bring Contact Lens Solution on a Plane and Through TSA? (+ Tips)

For those who need them, it’s hard to think of a more essential travel accessory than contact lenses.

Unfortunately, getting contact lenses through TSA security is not always as clear as you would like it to be.

Below, I’ll give you some guidance on how to get your contact lenses and solution through airport security as a carry-on and also provide some tips for traveling with them in general.

Table of Contents

Can you bring contact lens solution on a plane and through TSA?

Yes, you can bring contact lens solution on a plane and through TSA in your carry-on or checked bag.

When bringing contact lens solution in your carry-on, you will need to be mindful of the TSA liquids rule and its medical exception (which we talk about below).

But you also need to be careful about certain types of solution, such as those containing hydrogen peroxide because those can be more problematic.

Keep reading below to find out how to potentially avoid problems.

Bringing contacts and solution in your carry-on

When bringing your contacts and solution in your carry-on, you are going to have to get them through TSA airport security.

And that means dealing with the TSA liquids rule .

The TSA Liquids 3-1-1 Rule states that you can only bring liquids in containers no larger than 3.4 liquid ounces (100 milliliters) and that all of your liquid containers must fit “comfortably” into one clear, quart-size bag.

Plenty of suppliers sell contact solution bottles at or under 3.4 liquid ounces so it’s definitely possible to find a container under these size limits.

Solution bottles larger than 3.4 ounces

Sometimes you might not be able to find a solution container under 3.4 ounces. For example, maybe you use a special type of contact solution recommended by your eye doctor that is harder to find in travel sizes.

Well, there is still good news for you.

TSA allows you to bring liquids larger than 3.4 ounces if they are medically necessary .

They specifically state: “TSA allows larger amounts of medically necessary liquids, gels, and aerosols in reasonable quantities for your trip, but you must declare them to security officers at the checkpoint for inspection.”

In theory, all contact solution — prescription or not — should be medically necessary but that determination could be up to the TSA agent at the screening station.

So this means that you can bring contact solution in containers larger than 3.4 fluid ounces but some discretion will be involved.

The catch when bringing an oversized liquid container for medical purposes is that it needs to be a reasonable quantity for your trip and you need to declare it to the TSA agents.

A “reasonable quantity” is going to depend on the circumstances but generally one oversized bottle should be reasonable for your average trip of a few days or even a couple of weeks.

You would probably only run into some quantity issues if you have multiple oversized bottles or if you had one inexplicably large container.

TSA also mentions that you need to declare your medically necessary liquids.

An easy way to do this would be to place your oversized contact solution container into a clear plastic bag and as you are getting ready to go through security just tell the agent that you have a container of contact solution that is medically necessary.

In most cases, you’ll also need to pull out your plastic bag with your solution container and place it in its own tray just like you normally do with your liquids bag.

You may not have to do this if you have something like TSA Pre-Check but you should always be ready to quickly retrieve an oversized liquids container and explain why you are bringing it with you.

One important thing to note: it’s not hard to find reports of TSA agents sometimes giving people trouble when they bring in large bottles of contact solution.

. @TSA just took my wife’s prescription contact lens solution at LAX. Please explain this! @AskTSA — Rebecca Henry (@girlsside) April 15, 2018

For that reason, I would save the screenshot below which comes from the official TSA Twitter account where they make it clear that oversized bottles of contact solution are allowed.

Additional screening and hydrogen peroxide solution

One more thing that you need to be ready for when bringing contact solution through TSA is additional screening .

A lot of times whenever you bring a liquid container over 3.4 ounces TSA agents will want to take a close look at it to make sure that it does not trigger their tests for explosives.

Some types of solution bottles could be considered more hazardous than others. For example, contact lens solutions with hydrogen peroxide (usually the type with a red cap like Clear Care) could draw more attention.

There are many reports of TSA agents confiscating this type of contact solution when it doesn’t pass the explosives test during additional screening.

For that reason, I would only attempt to transport contact solution with hydrogen peroxide through TSA security if it is in a container under 3.4 fluid ounces .

That way, you can decrease the odds of getting your solution tested.

But even then be aware that some people report their containers being confiscated even when the container is under 3.4 ounces ! (Reportedly, some TSA agents confiscate these bottles whenever they see a red cap on them.)

So, at the end of the day it will probably just come down to does your solution bottle: 1) contain a red cap or 2) test positive for certain chemicals not allowed through the checkpoint.

If the answer is yes to any of those, you may run into trouble bringing your container through TSA security.

Bringing contacts and solution in your checked bag

If you choose to bring your contacts in your checked baggage then you can avoid the liquids screening process for your contact solution altogether.

In that case, the liquids 3.4 ounce limitation will not apply.

For people with contact solution containing hydrogen peroxide, putting it in their checked bag is often the best option.

But you still may need to think about a few things.

First, your luggage could always be delayed or lost so you should never put anything in your checked baggage that you cannot live without.

For many people, they cannot live without corrective lenses and their contact solution so I would only put those items in your checked baggage if you also had some in your carry-on bag.

If your contact solution will not be allowed in your carry-on (because of something like 3% hydrogen peroxide), you are sort of out of luck in this scenario which is really a shame. You may be forced to risk going without that solution in the event your checked bag goes missing.

Travel tips for your contacts and solution

Prevent leaks.

As you increase in altitude, the air will expand inside of your containers.

If you’ve ever flown with a bag of potato chips you’ve probably noticed how expanded the bag gets once you arrive at 30,000+ feet. It’s kind of crazy.

Well, the same type of thing can happen with the air inside of your contact solution bottle. This can cause leaks which is why it’s a good idea to put your contact solution containers inside of a plastic bag.

It can also help to squeeze the air out of your solution bottle before you begin ascending so that there is more room for the air to expand.

Switch to daily contacts

You can always temporarily switch to daily contacts whenever you are traveling.

This will allow you to completely avoid using contact solution and having to worry about keeping up with cleaning your contact cases.

Travel with back ups

When traveling, it’s a good idea to bring some back up contacts just in case your contacts get lost or damaged. I usually always keep a back-up pair in my toiletries bag and one pair in my backpack.

If you already use daily contacts, be sure to bring several extra on your trip because you never know when you might need more.

Bring your glasses

If you have eyeglasses, always make sure to bring those with you, even if you rarely wear them.

When you travel to new destinations, fly on a plane, etc. it’s not uncommon for your eyes to get irritated and putting contacts on irritated eyes is often a bad idea .

So I would always try to have a pair of eyeglasses with you, even if you don’t regularly wear them.

Avoid transferring your solution into another container

Some people might think about transferring their contact solution into a smaller container so that they can more easily get through TSA security.

For example, maybe you want to pour your solution into a smaller TSA-approved liquids container.

The problem with this is that you could contaminate your solution which could increase your chances of getting infected . Therefore, I would recommend against doing that.

You should not have any problems bringing a travel sized container of normal contact solution through airport security.

But even if your container is larger than 3.4 ounces, you can still bring it through thanks to the TSA medical exemption which allows you to transport larger containers in reasonable quantities.

However, if you have contact solution with a red tip that contains hydrogen peroxide there is a long track record of TSA agents confiscating these when they don’t pass the explosives test.

So I would probably only try to transport those if they were in a container under 3.4 ounces or if you placed them in your checked bag.

Daniel Gillaspia is the Founder of UponArriving.com and the credit card app, WalletFlo . He is a former attorney turned travel expert covering destinations along with TSA, airline, and hotel policies. Since 2014, his content has been featured in publications such as National Geographic, Smithsonian Magazine, and CNBC. Read my bio .

I was not allowed to carry on my “red top” Clear Care Solution. I think the bottle should say this may happen. I have taken it through other TSA checkpoints without being stopped.

Same thing just happened to me. My travel size red cap Clear Care was taken. If they test it then it will be positive and then taken. Flew hundred of times with it previously and never had it looked at or tested. I’m going to look for some sterile cap to replace the red one. That was the flag.

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Can You Bring Contact Solution on a Plane? A Contact Lens Travel Guide

With roughly 45 million people in the US wearing contacts, one question often asked by people preparing to travel by air is “Can you bring contact solution on a plane?”

For travellers who wear contact lenses, there is so much more to know. In fact, when we stop and think about it, we probably know these things. In the rush of preparing for a trip, they just might not be top of mind. So this guide is a good little refresher. For example, you need to stay hydrated., and you shouldn't sleep on the plane with them in. And what about once you get to your destination?

Can You Bring Contact Solution on a Plane

The short answer is yes, you can. You also need to think about spare glasses, a case, and rewetting eye drops.

Traveling with contacts is more than bringing along a bottle of cleaning solution. Follow these tips to prepare for your next trip.

What to Pack Before Your Trip

When packing for your trip, there are a few items you need to put in your carry-on bag. These are the items you’ll need in case your luggage doesn’t make it to your destination when you do.

Travel Size Contact Solution

Buy a travel size bottle of solution. Do not try to transfer solution from a big bottle into a smaller bottle.

You contact solution is sterile and transferring it yourself will introduce contaminants. This will put your eyes at risk for an infection.

Travel size bottles are going to hold about 2 ounces of liquid. This should last you a week or two.

If you are planning on traveling longer than that, pack more than one bottle. Bring enough to not worry about running out while traveling.

You can also pack a regular sized bottle in your checked luggage. That way you’ll be sure to have your preferred brand and solution formula, in case it’s not sold where you’re travelling.

Lens Rewetting Drops

Flying is dehydrating and your contacts will feel the effects.

Rewetting drops are not a cleaning solution. They are a thicker solution that will keep your contacts moist in your eyes. Release one drop at a time in each eye as needed.

Clean Storage Case

You need a clean place to store your contacts at night or while you are not wearing them. A case will keep them moist and free of contamination.

A Pair of Glasses

Bring a pair of glasses, even if you don't plan on wearing them. You'll be thankful to have them if something unexpected happens, such as an eye infection or injury.

Extra Pair of Contacts

You don't want to be hundreds or thousands of miles from home and lose a contact. If you brought your glasses you'll be wearing them for the rest of the trip.

Bringing an extra pair of contacts will let you keep on seeing glasses-free. You probably won't need them, but they take up a small amount of space, so it can't hurt.

Contact Lens Solution TSA Rules

As long as you follow the 3-1-1 rule* you will be ok with TSA. The container of liquid must be 3.4 ounces or less.

Pack your liquids containers in 1 quart-sized clear zip-top bag. You get 1 bag per person to hold your liquids, aerosols, gels, creams and pastes.

* 3-1-1 rule: 3.4 oz bottle or less; 1 quart-sized, clear, plastic, zip-top bag; 1 bag per passenger

The Dailies Option

Instead of messing around with cleaning solution and spare pairs, consider getting dailies. Daily contacts are worn for one day and then thrown away.

Since each contact is in its own small package, they are TSA approved. You won't need to pack cleaning solution.

Plan out a pair for each day and a couple days extra. Then if you lose a contact, it isn't a problem.

Since they come in their own package, there’s no need for a storage case or to make sure they don't dry out. They’re always ready to wear.

Plus, there’s no fear of contamination, since you won't open them until you go to put them in. Make sure to wash your hands before you start though.

On the Plane

Bring a bottle of water with you on the plane. You can either bring an empty bottle to fill or buy one after you go through security.

Drink the water and use the rewetting drops while on the plane. The air in planes is low in humidity and this will wreak havoc on your contacts. This USA Today article talks about the effect of low humidity on our nose, which is right under our eyes! Of course they’re both going to be affected.

It is best to use the rewetting drops every hour or so. This will maintain healthy moisture levels.

International Flights

Consider waiting until you get to your destination to put your contacts in. This is even more important if the flight is longer than three or four hours.

Definitely follow this advice for international flights that are over ten hours. Why bother putting them in if you are only going to take them out once you are on the plane?

Sleeping on the Plane

If you plan on sleeping on the plane you definitely need to take your contacts out. Sleeping while wearing contacts is one of the worst things you can do.

Your eyes are already dry from the plane, and now sleeping restricts the oxygen getting to them. This can cause microscopic tears in your cornea.

These tears are then at risk for an infection. With all the germs present during travel, it’s good to take precautions and and not let your eyes be vulnerable.

Plan Ahead and Travel Smart

To answer the question, can you bring contact solution on a plane? Yes, you can, as long as you follow the rules.

Flying with contact lenses is not complicated. You just need to plan ahead by buying TSA approved, travel-sized bottles of solution.

Put your contact solution in your carry-on. Drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration. If you sleep on the plane, take your contacts out first. You may want to save yourself the trouble and wait to put your contacts in until you get to your destination.

Perhaps the easiest way to travel with contact lenses is to not bother with contact solution at all. Consider switching to daily lenses and have a fresh pair of contacts every day.

Before you go, check this out!

We have lots more on the site to show you. You've only seen one page. Check out this post which is one of the most popular of all time.

Can You Bring Contact Lens Solution On A Plane: A Guide To TSA Compliance

As a frequent traveller, it’s natural to want to bring all of your necessary personal items with you on the plane. However, if you wear contact lenses, you may wonder if bringing your contact lens solution on a plane is allowed.

With the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) regulations constantly changing, it can be difficult to keep up with what’s permitted. We will provide you with a comprehensive guide to TSA compliance when travelling with contact lens solutions. We understand the importance of maintaining proper eye care hygiene and want to ensure you have all the information you need to pack your contact lens solution safely and efficiently.

It will explore the different types of contact lens solutions, the rules and regulations surrounding them, and how to pack them properly to avoid any unforeseen problems at the airport. With this guide, you can travel with confidence and peace of mind, knowing you fully comply with TSA regulations.

Can You Bring Contact Lens Solution On A Plane? Rules And Regulations

Regarding travelling, knowing the rules and regulations regarding what you can and can’t bring on a plane is important. One common question among contact lens wearers is whether or not they can bring contact lens solutions on a plane.

The answer is yes, but there are some guidelines to follow. According to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), travellers can bring a quart-sized bag of liquids, aerosols, gels, creams, and pastes in their carry-on luggage. Each container must be 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) or less, and all containers must fit comfortably in the bag.

Contact lens solution, which consider a liquid, include in this. However, it’s important to note that if you have a larger container of contact lens solution, it must be packed in your checked luggage . Additionally, the TSA recommends labelling all containers of contact lens solution and placing them in a clear plastic bag for easy access during the security screening process.

TSA Compliance For Bringing Contact Lens Cases On A Plane

Regarding air travel, it is important to understand the TSA regulations to avoid any issues at security checkpoints. You may wonder if you can bring your contact lens case on the plane if you wear contact lenses. Fortunately, TSA compliance permits passengers to bring contact lens cases on planes as long as they meet specific requirements.

Here are some key bullet points to keep in mind:

• Contact lens cases must be empty before going through security.
• Contact lens solution can brought on board in a carry-on bag if it meets the 3-1-1 liquids rule (containers must be 3.4 ounces or less, all containers must fit in a single quart-sized bag, and each passenger must allow one bag).
• You must pack a full-sized bottle of contact lens solution in your checked luggage.
• You should pack contact lens cases in a clear plastic bag for easy inspection by TSA agents.

TSA Rules For Liquids In Containers Larger Than 3.4 Ounces

Travelers planning to take liquids on a flight should know the TSA rules for liquids in containers larger than 3.4 ounces. These rules were implemented to ensure the safety of all passengers and crew members on a flight. Here are some important bullet points to keep in mind:

• Carry-on luggage does not allow liquids in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).
• These liquids can pack in checked baggage, but it is important to pack them securely so they do not leak or break during the flight.
• Exceptions to this rule include medications, baby formula, and breast milk. You can carry these items in larger quantities but must declare them to the TSA officer at the checkpoint.
• If you are carrying a liquid medication, it is also a good idea to have a note from your doctor explaining the necessity of the medication.

TSA Rules For Liquids In Containers Smaller Than 3.4 Ounces

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has strict rules when it comes to carrying liquids in containers smaller than 3.4 ounces. These rules are in place to ensure the safety and security of all passengers travelling by air. Below are some of the critical TSA rules to keep in mind when packing liquids:

• You must place all liquids in a clear, quart-sized bag.
• The airline allows each passenger only one clear bag per flight.
• All liquids must be in containers that are 3.4 ounces or less.
• You must remove the clear bag from the carry-on luggage and place it in a bin for screening.
• Medications, baby formula, and breast milk allow larger quantities but must be declared to the TSA officer for inspection.

It is important to remember that these rules apply to all liquids, including toiletries, beverages, and even food items such as yogurt or pudding. If you are unsure whether an item is liquid, pack it in your luggage.

TSA Guidelines For Carrying Contact Lens Solution On A Plane

Travelling can be a hassle, especially knowing what you can and cannot bring on a plane. TSA guidelines for carrying contact lens solutions on a plane can be confusing, but it is important to know what allows us to avoid any issues at security. Here are some important bullet points to keep in mind:

• You can carry contact lens solutions in both carry-on and checked baggage.
• The container must be 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) or less per item.
• You must place all containers in a clear, plastic, quart-sized bag.
• The authorities allow each passenger to carry one quart-sized bag of liquids, aerosols, gels, creams, and pastes.
• You must place the bag in a bin or conveyor belt for X-ray screening.

It is important to follow these guidelines to avoid having your contact lens solution confiscated at security or causing any delays for yourself or others. Additionally, it recommends bringing an extra contact lens solution in case of any unexpected.

Information On The Amount Of Contact Lens Solution Allowed On A Plane

For people who wear contact lenses, it’s important to know the restrictions on the amount of contact lens solution that can be carried on a plane. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has specific rules and guidelines for carrying liquid items on a plane, including contact lens solutions. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

• It would be best to place contact lens solution, a liquid, in a quart-sized bag with other liquids.
• Each container of contact lens solution must be 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) or less and placed in a quart-sized bag for carry-on luggage.
• You must place a larger container of contact lens solution in a checked bag.
• Packaging an extra container of contact lens solution is a good idea in case of emergencies or unexpected delays.

It’s essential to be aware of these restrictions to avoid having your contact lens solution confiscated at the security checkpoint. Additionally, it’s always a good idea to check with.

Guidelines For Travelling With Prescription Contact Lenses

Travelling with prescription contact lenses can be a bit of a hassle, but with a few simple guidelines, it can be a smooth process. Following these simple guidelines allows you to enjoy your travels without worrying about it. Here are some tips to make your travels with contact lenses easier:

• Pack enough contact lenses for your entire trip, plus a few extra pairs in emergencies.
• Store your contact lenses in a clean, dry case.
• As some countries may not carry the same brands you are handy to, bring an extra bottle of contact lens solution.
• Keep your prescription with you if you need more contact lenses while travelling.
• If travelling by air, pack your contact lens solution in a clear plastic bag to comply with TSA regulations.
• Wear your glasses on the day of your flight in case your contact lenses become uncomfortable.
• Avoid swimming or soaking in hot tubs with your contact lenses, as this can increase the risk of infection.

Rules For Travelling With Non-Prescription Contact Lenses

When travelling with non-prescription contact lenses, remember a few important rules. Firstly, it is important to pack enough lenses for your trip, including a few extra pairs in an emergency. There are a few important rules to keep in mind for non-prescription contact lenses to ensure a comfortable and safe journey. Here are some helpful tips to keep in mind:

• Always pack your contact lens solution and case in your carry-on luggage. This will ensure you have access to them throughout your trip, and you won’t have to worry about losing them in your checked baggage.
• Be sure to bring enough contact lenses to last for the entire duration of your trip. It’s always a good idea to pack extras, just in case.
• If you’re travelling to a destination with a different climate or altitude, be aware that this may affect how your contact lenses feel and fit. Consider bringing a backup pair of glasses if you need to switch to them.
• If you plan on swimming or participating in water activities, remove your contact lenses beforehand. This will help prevent any potential eye infections or irritations.

Advice For International Travel With Contact Lens Solution

If you wear contact lenses and plan to travel internationally, it’s important to prepare to ensure your eyes stay healthy and comfortable throughout your trip. Here are some useful tips to keep in mind when travelling with contact lens solutions:

• Pack enough contact lens solution to last the entire trip. Depending on the length of your travels, this may mean bringing multiple bottles or packs of solution.
• Make sure your contact lens solution meets airline regulations for carry-on liquids. Passengers can carry a 3.4-ounce or smaller container of liquid on board on most airlines.
• If you’re travelling to a location with different electrical outlets, bring a converter for your contact lens case or other electronic devices.
• Please clean your contact lens case and refill it with fresh solution each night. This will help prevent infections and other eye problems.
• Consider bringing a spare pair of glasses if you lose or damage your contacts while travelling.

knowing how to properly Can You bring contact lens solution on a plane can help you avoid any TSA compliance issues and make your travel experience hassle-free. With the TSA regulations in mind, you can pack your contact lens solution in your carry-on luggage or checked baggage as long as it meets the size requirements and is stored in a clear, plastic, quart-sized bag.

Always remember to label your solution with your name and contact information and inform the TSA agent if you carry any medical liquids or gels in your luggage. Following these guidelines, you can easily bring your contact lens solution on your next flight without any problems.

Can We Take Contact Lens Solution In Flight?

Yes, you can take contact lens solutions on a flight. However, it must be in a container of 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) or less and placed in a clear, plastic, quart-sized bag with other liquids and gels brought on board.

How Do You Travel With A Clear Care Contact Solution?

When travelling with Clear Care contact solution, it is important to remember that it cannot be handy directly in your eyes. Pack it in your checked luggage in its original, sealed container to travel with Clear Care. Please place it in a plastic bag to prevent any potential leakage.

Is Lens Cleaner Allowed In Hand Luggage?

According to TSA regulations in the United States, lens cleaner allows hand luggage as long as it is in a container that is 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) or less and is placed in a clear, plastic, quart-sized bag with other liquids.

Is Contact Lens Solution Allowed In Checked Luggage In The UK?

You can pack contact lens solutions in your checked luggage when travelling to the UK. However, it recommend to pack it in a clear, sealable plastic bag alongside other liquids, gels, and aerosols and comply with the airline’s regulations.

Can I Take A Contact Lens Solution In Hand Luggage In India?

Yes, you can take contact lens solutions in hand luggage in India. It must comply with the liquid restrictions set by the Indian Aviation Authority, which states that each container must be 100 or less. All containers must fit into a clear, resealable plastic bag with a maximum capacity of 1 litre.

Michael C. Herrera

I’m a travel blogger with a focus on safety. I’ve been to all seven continents, and I love sharing my tips for staying safe while traveling. I also have a lot of experience with travel hacking and finding the best deals on airfare and hotels. My blog features reviews of restaurants, hotels, and attractions around the world.

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What Can I Bring?

Planning ahead and packing properly can facilitate the screening process and ease your travel experience at the airport. Know what you can pack in your carry-on and checked baggage before arriving at the airport by reviewing the lists below. Even if an item is generally permitted, it may be subject to additional screening or not allowed through the checkpoint if it triggers an alarm during the screening process, appears to have been tampered with, or poses other security concerns. Read about civil penalties for prohibited items .

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The final decision rests with the TSA officer on whether an item is allowed through the checkpoint.

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Please notify the TSA officer that you have diabetes and are carrying your supplies with you. Insulin pumps and supplies must be accompanied by insulin, and insulin in any form or dispenser must be clearly identified.

Learn more about transporting medication on your next flight.

Please visit our special procedures page for information on traveling through the checkpoint with a cane.

Contact Lens Solution

TSA allows larger amounts of medically necessary liquids, gels, and aerosols in reasonable quantities for your trip, but you must declare them to security officers at the checkpoint for inspection. Any oversized medically-necessary liquids that alarm during screening, testing positive for certain chemicals, may not be allowed through the screening checkpoint. Some contact lens solutions contain chemicals that typically alarm and may not permitted through the checkpoint. We recommend placing contact lens solutions over 3.4 ounces in your checked baggage.

Contact Lenses

TSA allows larger amounts of medically necessary liquids, gels, and aerosols in reasonable quantities for your trip, but you must declare them to security officers at the checkpoint for inspection. Any oversized medically-necessary liquids that alarm during screening, testing positive for certain chemicals, may not be allowed through the screening checkpoint. Some contact lens solutions contain chemicals that typically alarm and may not be permitted through the checkpoint. We recommend placing contact lens solutions over 3.4 ounces in your checked baggage.

TSA allows larger amounts of medically necessary liquids, gels, and aerosols in reasonable quantities for your trip, but you must declare them to TSA officers at the checkpoint for inspection.

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• Carry On Bags: Yes (Special Instructions)
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Inform the TSA officer if you have a bone growth stimulator, spinal stimulator, neurostimulator, port, feeding tube, insulin pump, ostomy or other medical device attached to your body and where it is located before the screening process begins. You may provide the officer with the TSA notification card or other medical documentation to describe your condition. Submit the device for X-ray screening if you can safely disconnect. Consult with the manufacturer of the device to determine whether it can pass through the X-ray, metal detector or advanced imaging technology for screening. If you cannot disconnect from the device, it may require additional screening and those in sensitive areas are subject to careful and gentle inspection. For more information, see TSA special procedures . If you need assistance with screening, you may ask for a Passenger Support Specialist or a Supervisory TSA Officer. Devices containing lithium metal or lithium ion batteries must be carried in carry-on baggage.  Most other consumer electronic devices containing batteries are allowed in carry-on and checked baggage.

For more information, see the FAA regulations on batteries.

• Carry On Bags: Yes (Less than or equal to 3.4oz/100 ml allowed)

We recommend, but do not require, that your medications be labeled to facilitate the security process.

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TSA Regulations for Contact Solution: Tips for Contact Wearers

Take a look at our helpful travel tips for contact lens wearers below., share this:.

If you’re traveling with contact lenses, don’t forget to pack:

Here are a few more travel tips for contact lens wearers:

Make sure to pack a 2 oz bottle of OPTI-FREE ® in your carry on.

Pack larger bottles in your checked luggage.*

Bring an eye mask so you can get some shut-eye on the plane. If you’re taking a nap, remember to take out your lenses first.

Write down your prescription just in case you need new lenses while traveling. Better safe than “Sorry, but I can’t see a thing!”

Take your lenses out before going to the beach to avoid eye infections caused by impure water. Click here for more information

* Sometimes, large bottles of OPTI-FREE ® are allowed in your carry on bag, but always check with your airline and TSA for additional regulations.

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Dry eyes and contact lenses.

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Flying With Contact Lenses: Frequently Asked Questions & Travel Tips (2024 Update)

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Flying can be a thrilling experience, whether you’re jetting off to an exotic destination or traveling for business. If you wear contact lenses, you may wonder about the best way to ensure a comfortable and safe journey. Flying with contact lenses is entirely possible and common for millions of people worldwide. However, there are some important considerations and precautions to keep in mind to make your flight enjoyable and hassle-free.

In this article, we’ll discuss essential tips for flying with contact lenses, addressing concerns about dry eyes, cabin pressure changes, and maintaining optimal eye health while in the air.

1. Can I bring contact lenses on a plane?

The short answer is yes; you can bring contact lenses on a plane. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) allows contact lenses in both carry-on and checked baggage.

You can also bring contact lens solution on a plane if you wear reusable lenses, but you need to declare them to security officers for inspection.

2. Can I wear contacts on a plane?

Yes, you can wear contacts on a plane. However, the dry air of a plane cabin can dehydrate your eyes, making your contacts feel tight and uncomfortable.

If you must wear contact lenses during your flight, make sure to pack rewetting drops in your carry-on baggage so you can easily relieve dryness if necessary.

3. How do I pack contact lenses for traveling?

When flying with contact lenses, it’s essential to pack smartly to ensure your eyes remain comfortable throughout your journey. Pack them in your carry-on to avoid damage from temperature and pressure changes in checked baggage. Use travel-sized, TSA-compliant bottles of lens solution to meet liquid restrictions.

For daily disposables, pack extra pairs for unexpected delays. If using reusable lenses, include a clean case and sufficient solution for your trip, plus a little extra. Always carry a backup pair of glasses to give your eyes a break during long flights.

4. Do contacts go in a 3-1-1 bag?

Yes. Whether disposable or reusable, contact lenses should go in clear, quart-sized bags as per the TSA’s 3-1-1 liquids rule .

Note that each lens case or packet must contain no more than 100 milliliters of liquid and must fit inside the quart-sized bag. You will need to declare the bag to security officers for inspection.

5. Is it better to wear glasses instead of contacts on a plane?

Not necessarily. If you have rewetting drops in your carry-on baggage, you can use it to relieve dryness if your contacts start to feel uncomfortable mid-flight.

But if you have sensitive eyes and prefer guaranteed comfort, then you may opt to wear glasses instead.

Glasses may be your best option if your flight will take several hours. Upon arrival, simply switch them out for a fresh pair of contact lenses.

Tips for Flying With Contact Lenses

Here are some helpful tips for flying with contact lenses to ensure your trip goes smoothly:

• Take out your contact lenses if you want to nap or sleep. This is especially important if your contact lenses are not FDA-approved for overnight or extended wear.
• Wear a fresh pair of contact lenses when you reach your destination. The dry air of a plane cabin can make your contact lenses less comfortable than when they were new by the time you reach your destination.
• Consider switching to daily disposable contact lenses. Daily disposable contact lenses are single-use lenses that you discard after each use. They are typically more convenient for travel than reusable lenses because they require little to no upkeep.
• Consider UV-blocking contact lenses. If you are flying to a sunny destination, ask your eye doctor for UV-blocking contacts. Although they’re not substitutes for UV-absorbing eyewear, they help provide protection against harmful UV radiation.
• Drink plenty of water before your flight. This helps to keep your eyes hydrated during the flight.
• Bring an extra pair of contact lenses. You never know what can happen, so bring an extra pair or two of contact lenses.
• Bring a copy of your contact lens prescription. Having a copy of your prescription ensures you can easily purchase contact lenses when necessary.
• Follow good hygiene practices. Before handling your lenses, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water and dry them with a lint-free towel.
• Carry your eyeglasses. It’s wise to carry a pair of eyeglasses as a backup in case you encounter any issues with your contact lenses during your flight.
• Pack a lens care kit. Before embarking on your journey, ensure that you have a complete lens care kit with you, including a travel-sized bottle of multipurpose solution, a contact lens case, and spare lenses if possible. 

Flying with contact lenses can be a breeze with proper preparation. Stay hydrated, choose the right lenses, practice good hygiene, and be mindful of cabin pressure changes. Pack a lens care kit and keep eyeglasses as a backup for a smooth journey. Safe travels!

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Contact lens tips for traveling abroad.

If you’re traveling overseas, especially to a remote area, you may be wondering how to best take care of your contact lenses. Although a challenge, you should be able to wear your contacts anywhere no matter how undeveloped if you keep in mind a few contact lens tips for travelling abroad:

Don’t drink the water (or use it on your contacts)

You should never expose your contact lenses to any type of water: tap, distilled, lake, bottled, doesn’t matter. The microbes and viruses living in it, especially the Acanthamoeba organism , can attach to your lenses and cause a serious and difficult to treat infection. Only use non-expired, sterile contact lens solution on your lenses. And always wash your hands with clean, drinkable water before handling your lenses.

Have your prescription up to date and keep with you

You probably won’t need it, but just in case, having your prescription up to date and on your person will save you the time and energy of trying to get a new one in a country where eye tests might not be readily available. Several online contact lens suppliers will ship overseas, but they will need an up-to-date prescription.

Never transfer solution into a smaller container

With all the liquid restrictions for air travel, it may be tempting to transfer your solution to a smaller bottle, but this can affect the sterility of the solution. Buy a new smaller size bottle, or better yet, bring daily disposable lenses like Proclear 1 day . They require no cases or solution, and you don’t have to worry about sterility because you put in a fresh pair each day.

Bring what you need and some extra

You never know what you’re going to find, or not find, abroad, so it’s a good idea to take whatever eye care products you need with you rather than buying them at your destination. This is another good reason to bring daily disposables. No matter what your wear schedule, bring extra pairs just in case of loss. One way to hopefully avoid lost lenses is to pack them in your carry-on luggage.

There’s so much to see when we travel abroad. Make sure you take care of your lenses so you don’t miss a thing! And look here for some more contact lens tips for travel .

Nothing in this blog post is to be construed as medical advice, nor is it intended to replace the recommendations of a medical professional. For specific questions, please see your eye care practitioner.

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8 Tips for Traveling with Contacts

Traveling’s stressful. If you wear contact lenses, you don’t want to add eyecare to the list of stuff to stress about.

No matter the type of trip you’re taking—business or pleasure, a weekend getaway or a month-long relocation—you want to make sure you’re prepared with adequate contact lenses and contact lens solution, so you won’t run out during your trip or be tempted to scrimp on your normal cleaning routine.

Here are eight tips to help you travel safely and effectively with your contact lenses:

1. Consider daily disposables

Understand, however, you can’t make the decision to use daily disposable contact lenses without the proper prescription from an eye doctor. It’s likely you can make the switch to daily contact lenses. If this interests you, visit your eye doctor to discuss your options, and possibly, get an updated prescription if it makes sense for your vision needs.

2. Have a contingency plan

Pack a pair of glasses in the event you lose your contacts or your eyes become irritated.

You may also want to have a spare set of contact lenses stored in a leak-proof case and enough solution to last you the duration of your trip (more on that later). 

3. Consider carrying-on your contacts

If you’re traveling by plane, consider waiting until you touch down to put your contacts in. The air on planes can contribute to dry eyes, something you won’t want to deal with if you have your contacts in.

Plus, if you’re flying international or if you’re someone who likes to sleep during a flight, sleeping with your contacts could be unpleasant. Air won’t circulate under and around the lens properly, which can lead to tiny tears in the cornea. Consider packing your contacts into your carry-on and slipping on a pair of glasses during air travel.

Additionally, keeping your contacts in your carry-on ensures they’ll stay with you all the way to your destination. That way, in the unfortunate event that you lose your luggage, you’ll still be able to see the sites.

4. Stay out of the water

As we wrote in a post about frequently asked questions regarding contact lenses , swimming with contacts is problematic. 

The result could be a fungal infection, a virus, or a bacterial infection like Acanthamoeba keratitis, which occurs as a result of swimming with your contacts in and can lead to permanent vision loss or even the need for a corneal transplant.

Milder results include dry eye and discomfort, as pool and fresh water can cause soft contact lenses to tighten around the surface of your eyes. The ocean, hot tubs, shower, and hotel swimming pools should all be avoided if you’re wearing your contacts. If that’s not possible, wear swim goggles or opt for disposable lenses and trash them when done swimming.

5. Have your prescription handy

If you’re traveling internationally or on the road for a long time, it’s a good idea to bring copies of your vision prescriptions along. The numbers that appear on your prescriptions are recognized around the world, meaning, you’ll be able to get a new set of contacts whether you’re in Australia or down the Jersey shore.

Is your contact lens prescription up to date? If you’re unsure or if you know it’s close to expiring sometime around your travel dates, it might be a good idea to schedule an appointment with your eye doctor a few weeks before you leave. That way, you’ll know everything is current.

6. Lens solution is key

If you wear extended wear contacts, you’re lost without contact lens solution. If you’re checking your luggage, the simplest solution—pun intended—is to pack a full-size bottle of lens solution in your suitcase. It might not be a bad idea to also pack a travel size bottle in your carry-on.

Remember: liquids stowed in your carry-on should be 3.4 ounces or less and needs to fit in a quart-size plastic bag or TSA-approved travel case. If you’re not checking luggage and a travel-sized bottle of contact lens solution won’t get you through your journey, make it a priority to purchase a regular sized bottle as soon as you touchdown.

However, contact lens solution is considered a medically approved liquid, meaning you can carry on larger quantities, you just have to declare them once you reach a TSA checkpoint.

Another travel tip: squeeze the air out of any bottles that aren’t full so the changes in cabin pressure don’t cause your lens solution to leak.

7. Maintain your normal cleaning routine

It’s important to maintain your regular contact lens cleaning routine when you’re away. Wash your hands thoroughly before touching your lens and don’t take shortcuts no matter how tired or pressed for time you are.

8. Practice safe sun

Be sure to bring your sunglasses along. If you know you’ll be active on your journey, consider wrap-around, polarized sunglasses.

You may also want to purchase contacts with UV protection, which offer an added layer of protection.

Learn more about wearing contact lenses here.

Save on your contact lenses here .  

Michael Healy

Michael is a writer, consultant, editor, and educator with advanced degrees in health science, education, and educational policy and public administration.

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What Is the TSA Contact Lens Solution Policy

Tips for packing your contact lens supplies.

As any seasoned traveler can attest, the TSA is strict about liquids carried onto a plane. Thanks to the 3-1-1 rule, each passenger can carry on only one 1-quart-sized zippered plastic bag with small containers of liquid inside. That’s all very well and good for people whose only difficulty is finding their favorite toiletries in travel sizes. But what can be done about necessities like contact lens solution? What if that little bottle of contact lens solution won’t last for the whole trip?

3-1-1 compliant contact lens solution

To be 3-1-1 compliant, contact lens solution has to be in a bottle that holds 3.4 ounces or less. You can find this size easily, but it's not a lot of contact lens solution.

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The size of the bottle is the determining factor as to whether the liquid is 3-1-1 compliant. Even if the liquid inside the bottle is less than 3 ounces, if the bottle will hold more, it’s not allowed.

Some travelers get around this problem by eliminating other liquids in their carry-on and carrying only little bottles of contact lens solution. There are ways to manage this while still carrying toiletries, such as switching to solid forms of items like shampoo, soap and deodorant. Other people choose to travel with daily contact lenses, eliminating the need to travel with large bottles of solution. You may, however, have another solution.

Exceptions to 3-1-1

The TSA makes allowances for “medically necessary” liquids. This means that certain substances, like medications and infant formula, can be carried in larger quantities than are allowed by the 3-1-1 rule. They should be labeled, though, and you must declare them to the TSA security agents at the checkpoint. Contact lens solution makes the list of medically necessary liquids, but there’s a caveat: It’s the agent’s discretion whether to allow the larger liquids.

Other considerations

Because the possibility exists that a TSA agent may not allow the contact lens solution as a 3-1-1 exception, the smart move is to play it safe. The best way to do this is to pack that large bottle of contact lens solution into your checked luggage. Before doing this, however, it’s wise to check the airline’s baggage policy to be sure of any charges for checking bags.

Of course, as with any other liquid, it’s possible to purchase contact lens solution upon arrival at your destination. Unless you have allergies or other issues, it’s a relatively easy product to find – even on the other side of the globe.

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Travelling with your contact lenses? These 9 tips will help

By John Egan

Whether you’re travelling for business or pleasure, it’s easy to slip out of your normal routine. Maybe you skip your daily exercise. Perhaps you overindulge in food and fun.

You might even fail to follow your usual regimen for wearing and caring for your contact lenses .

Unfortunately, slacking off when it comes to your contacts could result in discomfort, or, worse yet, an eye infection .

Here are nine tips for being prepared and equipped to travel with contact lenses :

1. Pay attention to your eyewear prescriptions

At least a few weeks before you pack your business suit or bathing suit, get your eyes checked to make sure your contact lens and eyeglass prescriptions are up to date.

This is especially important if you’re going to be away from home for an extended period or if you’re headed to another country.

Aside from bringing a backup pair of glasses with you, keep copies of your prescriptions handy in case of an emergency.

The numbers that appear on your prescriptions are recognized around the world, meaning you can order new contacts or glasses in Texas or Taiwan.

READ MORE : Understanding how to read a contact lens prescription .

2. Pack all your eye care gear

In addition to contact lens solution and a backup pair of glasses, the University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Optometry suggests taking a few leak-proof contact cases, spare contacts and any other eye care supplies you need.

You may not use all of it, but it’s best to be on the safe side.

3. Know the travel security rules

Whether you’re flying to Boston or Budapest, Transportation Security Administration (TSA) regulations could affect you as a wearer of contact lenses.

TSA allows contact lenses in both carry-on and checked bags, but contact lens solution is another story.

A container of contact lens solution in your carry-on bag must contain 3.4 ounces of liquid or less, and all of your carry-on liquids must fit into a clear plastic bag.

The amount of liquids in your checked bag isn’t restricted.

A smart move when you’re flying: Pack a travel-size container of contact lens solution in your carry-on and a larger container in your checked bag.

However you divide it up, make sure you’ve got enough solution to last the entire trip.

4. Consider switching to disposable contact lenses

If you’ll be visiting a place with less-than-ideal hygiene conditions, the University of Michigan’s Student Life University Health Service recommends using daily disposable contact lenses .

With disposables, you can toss them each night without having to clean or store them.

5. Practice good contact lens hygiene

No matter where you are travelling, be sure to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before touching your contact lenses or your eyes, advises the University of Michigan.

Your hands should be dry before touching a lens or an eye.

Remove and clean your lenses every day, and wash your lens case with storage solution.

Furthermore, wear your contacts only for the recommended period and resist the urge to leave your contact lenses in overnight, says the University of Alabama at Birmingham.

Also, never use water for contact lens storage , warns the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). More about that next.

READ MORE: Contact lenses: A guide for first-time users

6. Don’t wear contacts in the water

Whether you want to swim in the ocean or do laps in the hotel swimming pool, remove your contacts before entering the water.

Your risk of fungal, bacterial or amoeba-borne eye infections goes up when you wear contacts while swimming, says the University of Michigan.

Courtesy of the University of Alabama at Birmingham, here are three pointers for wearers of contact lenses who do decide to keep them in while swimming:

Wear daily disposable contacts, if possible, and toss them once you’re done swimming.

Put on goggles before going into the water.

Throw soft contacts away after getting out of the water, even if they’re not daily disposable contacts.

7. Shield yourself from the sun

Just as you apply sunscreen to your skin, you should take precautions to protect your eyes from exposure to dangerous UV rays . One way to protect yourself: Consider getting contact lenses with UV protection .

Other precautions include wearing polarized sunglasses , a large sun hat and UV-blocking contacts, according to the University of Alabama at Birmingham.

8. Don’t take chances with your sight

If one or both of your eyes become red , painful, blurry or sensitive to light , remove your contact lenses right away, the University of Alabama at Birmingham says. After that:

Put your contacts in their case rather than throw them away. Doctors might want to take cultures from the contacts or the case to figure out what’s bothering your eyes.

Wear glasses until you can get your eyes checked by a doctor.

Obey your eye doctor’s orders about your contacts. For example, if your optician tells you to stop wearing contacts for a week to give your eyes time to heal, follow their advice.

9. Don't buy questionable contacts

You might spot contact lenses for sale in corner stores, if you are travelling abroad. Simply put: Don’t buy them.

Never purchase contacts unless they’ve been prescribed for you, the CDC says. Wearing contacts that haven’t been prescribed can harm your vision.

ARE YOUR EYES RED OR IRRITATED? Find an optician near you and schedule an exam.

Page published on Friday, 6 March 2020

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This tour offers a detailed look into the history and present-day life of the Jewish community of Moscow. On the tour, you will visit sites connected with the cultural and religious...

Vodka Museum Tour with transport (excursion only)

Lena, our guide in Moscow was excellent. She was very knowledgable and could answer any question we had for her. We liked that she could pick up on our interests and take us places we might not have thought of to go. When we realized that one of the places we had chosen to see would probably not be that interesting to us, she was able to arrange entry to the Diamond Fund and the Armoury for us. Riding the Metro with Lena was a real adventure and a lot of fun. In Saint Petersburg we found Anna well versed in the history of the Tsars and in the Hermitage collection. Arkady in Veliky Novgorod was a very good guide and answered all of our questions with ease. Novgorod was perhaps a long way to go for a day trip, but we did enjoy it. Vasily was a great driver to have and kept us safe with good humour and skill. We enjoyed ourselves so much, my daughter says she is already planning to return. We would both have no hesistation to recommend ExpresstoRussia to anyone we know.

Just wanted to let you know that My grandson Bruno and I couldn´t have been more pleased with our week in Moscow (6/15 - 6/21). We were absolutely enchanted with the whole experience, including getting lost a couple of times in the Metro during our free time. Although both our guides (both Eleanas) were excellent, I would particularly commend the first one (she took us to the Tatiakov, the KGB tour, and to that beautiful cemetery where so many great Russian artists, authors, composers, musicians, militarists, and politicians are buried). Her knowledge is encyclopedic; and her understanding of today´s Russia as a product of its past was, for us, truly enlightening. I will be taking another tour in Russia, with my wife, within the next two or three years. I will be in touch with you when the time comes. Meanwhile, I will refer you to other potential visitors to Russia as I meet them.

Tours to Moscow

Our Moscow tours are land only meaning that you arrange your own air travel to Russia and our expert staff meets you at the airport and handles everything else from there. Our online Airline Ticket booking system offers some of the most competitive rates to Russia available on the web so if you need tickets, please visit our Russian air ticket center . Rest assured that you will be taken great care of on one of our Moscow tours. Express to Russia has a fully staffed office in Moscow that will help to make your visit fun, informative and unforgettable. Please remember that of all these tours are private and can be adjusted to your taste. You can add, replace or skip some sights; you can add more days to the package or cut the tour short. Our specialists will be glad to help you create the tour of your dreams!

Moscow, a City Like No Other

Moscow is Russia’s largest city with a population of between 12 and 13 million. It is also Europe’s largest city and when you visit Moscow, you can feel it. The layout and architecture of the city is eclectic, ranging from crooked, ancient streets and alleyways to wide, bustling boulevards, from medieval churches to Stalin skyscrapers and to modern, glass buildings towering over everything and of course in the center of it all is the Kremlin and the magnificent Red Square. Moscow is also home to a fantastic, efficient and very beautiful metro system – each station having its own special design. In fact, Express to Russia’s Moscow metro tours and excursions are some of our most popular attractions that we offer. On our Moscow tours, you will see this and more.

Moscow Tours centering on Russian History

Moscow has a long and interesting history and has been the capital of Russia in many of its different iterations – capital of the Grand Duchy of Moscow , the Russian Empire and of course the Soviet Union (who could ever forget the Soviet Union?). Moscow, was founded in the 12th century by Prince Yuri Dolgaruki (Yuri of the long arms – he really did have long arms!). From that time on, it was home to the Russian Tsars until Peter the Great moved the capital to St. Petersburg in 1703. The city has survived invasions and sieges from the Mongols, the Tartars, the Poles, Lithuanians and Napoleon but has always persevered. Our Moscow tours will enlighten you on this great history and give you insights into Muscovites and their unique culture. Our Moscow tours show you what the city is like today but also brings to life the past. Moscow never seems to sleep and is bursting with energy. A Moscow tour with Express to Russia is truly the best way of getting to know Russia’s largest and most vibrant city.

Frequently Asked Questions From Our Travelers

What is the best time to visit moscow.

Any time of year is fine depending on what you plan to do. Summertime is pleasantly warm, ideal for exploring the city and its vibrant atmosphere, but Moscow will be much busier and accommodation is more expensive. Winter can be quite cold but beautiful nonetheless, and this is unproblematic if you intend to spend most of your trip in museums and galleries. There are also various festivals and events organised throughout the year. For more information about the best time to visit, read our guide

How many days are enough in Moscow?

If you plan your itinerary strategically and aren’t averse to a packed schedule, you can cover Moscow’s main sights over a long weekend. Most popular attractions are in the city centre, and the Moscow Metro allows you to cover much ground in a small amount of time. Ensure that your accommodation is fairly central and book tickets in advance, so that you can make the most of your days. For an informative and well-organised day out, check out our Moscow day tours with options to suit all interests.

Do they speak English in Moscow?

As Russia’s capital city, tourists are well accommodated in Moscow. There should be English-speaking staff in restaurants, bars, hotels, shops and attractions in tourist hotspots, and there are also English-speaking tourist police. Transport services have English translations on their maps and English announcements via intercom; alternatively, order taxis from the Yandex Taxi app (Russian Uber), though it’s unlikely that your taxi driver will speak English. If you get stuck and cannot communicate, it’s fine to use Google Translate.

Is it safe to travel to Moscow?

It is no less safe to travel to Moscow than to any European city if you exercise common sense and look after your belongings. As with every city some regions can be more unsavoury than others, but no tourist attractions are located there. The traffic in Moscow is notorious, so exercise caution when crossing roads. Do not take unlicensed taxis; book in advance or take public transport, which is widespread and perfectly safe. If you encounter any problems, look for the special tourist police who can help you. For more information, read our guide about staying safe in Russia .

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Travel Itinerary For One Week in Moscow: The Best of Moscow!

I just got back from one week in Moscow. And, as you might have already guessed, it was a mind-boggling experience. It was not my first trip to the Russian capital. But I hardly ever got enough time to explore this sprawling city. Visiting places for business rarely leaves enough time for sightseeing. I think that if you’ve got one week in Russia, you can also consider splitting your time between its largest cities (i.e. Saint Petersburg ) to get the most out of your trip. Seven days will let you see the majority of the main sights and go beyond just scratching the surface. In this post, I’m going to share with you my idea of the perfect travel itinerary for one week in Moscow.

Moscow is perhaps both the business and cultural hub of Russia. There is a lot more to see here than just the Kremlin and Saint Basil’s Cathedral. Centuries-old churches with onion-shaped domes dotted around the city are in stark contrast with newly completed impressive skyscrapers of Moscow City dominating the skyline. I spent a lot of time thinking about my Moscow itinerary before I left. And this city lived up to all of my expectations.

Travel Itinerary For One Week in Moscow

Day 1 – red square and the kremlin.

Metro Station: Okhotny Ryad on Red Line.

No trip to Moscow would be complete without seeing its main attraction. The Red Square is just a stone’s throw away from several metro stations. It is home to some of the most impressive architectural masterpieces in the city. The first thing you’ll probably notice after entering it and passing vendors selling weird fur hats is the fairytale-like looking Saint Basil’s Cathedral. It was built to commemorate one of the major victories of Ivan the Terrible. I once spent 20 minutes gazing at it, trying to find the perfect angle to snap it. It was easier said than done because of the hordes of locals and tourists.

As you continue strolling around Red Square, there’s no way you can miss Gum. It was widely known as the main department store during the Soviet Era. Now this large (yet historic) shopping mall is filled with expensive boutiques, pricey eateries, etc. During my trip to Moscow, I was on a tight budget. So I only took a retro-style stroll in Gum to get a rare glimpse of a place where Soviet leaders used to grocery shop and buy their stuff. In case you want some modern shopping experience, head to the Okhotny Ryad Shopping Center with stores like New Yorker, Zara, and Adidas.

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To continue this Moscow itinerary, next you may want to go inside the Kremlin walls. This is the center of Russian political power and the president’s official residence. If you’re planning to pay Kremlin a visit do your best to visit Ivan the Great Bell Tower as well. Go there as early as possible to avoid crowds and get an incredible bird’s-eye view. There are a couple of museums that are available during designated visiting hours. Make sure to book your ticket online and avoid lines.

Day 2 – Cathedral of Christ the Saviour, the Tretyakov Gallery, and the Arbat Street

Metro Station: Kropotkinskaya on Red Line

As soon as you start creating a Moscow itinerary for your second day, you’ll discover that there are plenty of metro stations that are much closer to certain sites. Depending on your route, take a closer look at the metro map to pick the closest.

The white marble walls of Christ the Saviour Cathedral are awe-inspiring. As you approach this tallest Orthodox Christian church, you may notice the bronze sculptures, magnificent arches, and cupolas that were created to commemorate Russia’s victory against Napoleon.

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Unfortunately, the current Cathedral is a replica, since original was blown to bits in 1931 by the Soviet government. The new cathedral basically follows the original design, but they have added some new elements such as marble high reliefs.

Home to some precious collection of artworks, in Tretyakov Gallery you can find more than 150,000 of works spanning centuries of artistic endeavor. Originally a privately owned gallery, it now has become one of the largest museums in Russia. The Gallery is often considered essential to visit. But I have encountered a lot of locals who have never been there.

Famous for its souvenirs, musicians, and theaters, Arbat street is among the few in Moscow that were turned into pedestrian zones. Arbat street is usually very busy with tourists and locals alike. My local friend once called it the oldest street in Moscow dating back to 1493. It is a kilometer long walking street filled with fancy gift shops, small cozy restaurants, lots of cute cafes, and street artists. It is closed to any vehicular traffic, so you can easily stroll it with kids.

Day 3 – Moscow River Boat Ride, Poklonnaya Hill Victory Park, the Moscow City

Metro Station: Kievskaya and Park Pobedy on Dark Blue Line / Vystavochnaya on Light Blue Line

Voyaging along the Moscow River is definitely one of the best ways to catch a glimpse of the city and see the attractions from a bit different perspective. Depending on your Moscow itinerary, travel budget and the time of the year, there are various types of boats available. In the summer there is no shortage of boats, and you’ll be spoiled for choice.

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If you find yourself in Moscow during the winter months, I’d recommend going with Radisson boat cruise. These are often more expensive (yet comfy). They offer refreshments like tea, coffee, hot chocolate, and, of course, alcoholic drinks. Prices may vary but mostly depend on your food and drink selection. Find their main pier near the opulent Ukraine hotel . The hotel is one of the “Seven Sisters”, so if you’re into the charm of Stalinist architecture don’t miss a chance to stay there.

The area near Poklonnaya Hill has the closest relation to the country’s recent past. The memorial complex was completed in the mid-1990s to commemorate the Victory and WW2 casualties. Also known as the Great Patriotic War Museum, activities here include indoor attractions while the grounds around host an open-air museum with old tanks and other vehicles used on the battlefield.

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The hallmark of the memorial complex and the first thing you see as you exit metro is the statue of Nike mounted to its column. This is a very impressive Obelisk with a statue of Saint George slaying the dragon at its base.

Maybe not as impressive as Shanghai’s Oriental Pearl Tower , the skyscrapers of the Moscow City (otherwise known as Moscow International Business Center) are so drastically different from dull Soviet architecture. With 239 meters and 60 floors, the Empire Tower is the seventh highest building in the business district.

The observation deck occupies 56 floor from where you have some panoramic views of the city. I loved the view in the direction of Moscow State University and Luzhniki stadium as well to the other side with residential quarters. The entrance fee is pricey, but if you’re want to get a bird’s eye view, the skyscraper is one of the best places for doing just that.

Day 4 – VDNKh, Worker and Collective Farm Woman Monument, The Ostankino TV Tower

Metro Station: VDNKh on Orange Line

VDNKh is one of my favorite attractions in Moscow. The weird abbreviation actually stands for Russian vystavka dostizheniy narodnogo khozyaystva (Exhibition of Achievements of the National Economy). With more than 200 buildings and 30 pavilions on the grounds, VDNKh serves as an open-air museum. You can easily spend a full day here since the park occupies a very large area.

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First, there are pavilions that used to showcase different cultures the USSR was made of. Additionally, there is a number of shopping pavilions, as well as Moskvarium (an Oceanarium) that features a variety of marine species. VDNKh is a popular venue for events and fairs. There is always something going on, so I’d recommend checking their website if you want to see some particular exhibition.

A stone’s throw away from VDNKh there is a very distinctive 25-meters high monument. Originally built in 1937 for the world fair in Paris, the hulking figures of men and women holding a hammer and a sickle represent the Soviet idea of united workers and farmers. It doesn’t take much time to see the monument, but visiting it gives some idea of the Soviet Union’s grandiose aspirations.

I have a thing for tall buildings. So to continue my travel itinerary for one week in Moscow I decided to climb the fourth highest TV tower in the world. This iconic 540m tower is a fixture of the skyline. You can see it virtually from everywhere in Moscow, and this is where you can get the best panoramic views (yep, even better than Empire skyscraper).

Parts of the floor are made of tempered glass, so it can be quite scary to exit the elevator. But trust me, as you start observing buildings and cars below, you won’t want to leave. There is only a limited number of tickets per day, so you may want to book online. Insider tip: the first tour is cheaper, you can save up to $10 if go there early.

Day 5 – A Tour To Moscow Manor Houses

Metro Station: Kolomenskoye, Tsaritsyno on Dark Green Line / Kuskovo on Purple Line

I love visiting the manor houses and palaces in Moscow. These opulent buildings were generally built to house Russian aristocratic families and monarchs. Houses tend to be rather grand affairs with impressive architecture. And, depending on the whims of the owners, some form of a landscaped garden.

During the early part of the 20th century though, many of Russia’s aristocratic families (including the family of the last emperor) ended up being killed or moving abroad . Their manor houses were nationalized. Some time later (after the fall of the USSR) these were open to the public. It means that today a great many of Moscow’s finest manor houses and palaces are open for touring.

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There are 20 manor houses scattered throughout the city and more than 25 in the area around. But not all of them easily accessible and exploring them often takes a lot of time. I’d recommend focusing on three most popular estates in Moscow that are some 30-minute metro ride away from Kremlin.

Sandwiched between the Moscow River and the Andropov Avenue, Kolomenskoye is a UNESCO site that became a public park in the 1920’s. Once a former royal estate, now it is one of the most tranquil parks in the city with gorgeous views. The Ascension Church, The White Column, and the grounds are a truly grand place to visit.

You could easily spend a full day here, exploring a traditional Russian village (that is, in fact, a market), picnicking by the river, enjoying the Eastern Orthodox church architecture, hiking the grounds as well as and wandering the park and gardens with wildflower meadows, apple orchards, and birch and maple groves. The estate museum showcases Russian nature at its finest year-round.

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If my travel itinerary for one week in Moscow was a family tree, Tsaritsyno Park would probably be the crazy uncle that no-one talks about. It’s a large park in the south of the city of mind-boggling proportions, unbelievable in so many ways, and yet most travelers have never heard of it.

The palace was supposed to be a summer home for Empress Catherine the Great. But since the construction didn’t meet with her approval the palace was abandoned. Since the early 1990’s the palace, the pond, and the grounds have been undergoing renovations. The entire complex is now looking brighter and more elaborately decorated than at possibly any other time during its history. Like most parks in Moscow, you can visit Tsaritsyno free of charge, but there is a small fee if you want to visit the palace.

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Last, but by no means least on my Moscow itinerary is Kuskovo Park . This is definitely an off-the-beaten-path place. While it is not easily accessible, you will be rewarded with a lack of crowds. This 18th-century summer country house of the Sheremetev family was one of the first summer country estates of the Russian nobility. And when you visit you’ll quickly realize why locals love this park.

Like many other estates, Kuskovo has just been renovated. So there are lovely French formal garden, a grotto, and the Dutch house to explore. Make sure to plan your itinerary well because the estate is some way from a metro station.

Day 6 – Explore the Golden Ring

Creating the Moscow itinerary may keep you busy for days with the seemingly endless amount of things to do. Visiting the so-called Golden Ring is like stepping back in time. Golden Ring is a “theme route” devised by promotion-minded journalist and writer Yuri Bychkov.

Having started in Moscow the route will take you through a number of historical cities. It now includes Suzdal, Vladimir, Kostroma, Yaroslavl and Sergiev Posad. All these awe-inspiring towns have their own smaller kremlins and feature dramatic churches with onion-shaped domes, tranquil residential areas, and other architectural landmarks.

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I only visited two out of eight cities included on the route. It is a no-brainer that Sergiev Posad is the nearest and the easiest city to see on a day trip from Moscow. That being said, you can explore its main attractions in just one day. Located some 70 km north-east of the Russian capital, this tiny and overlooked town is home to Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, UNESCO Site.

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Sergiev Posad is often described as being at the heart of Russian spiritual life. So it is uncommon to see the crowds of Russian pilgrims showing a deep reverence for their religion. If you’re traveling independently and using public transport, you can reach Sergiev Posad by bus (departs from VDNKh) or by suburban commuter train from Yaroslavskaya Railway Station (Bahnhof). It takes about one and a half hours to reach the town.

Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius is a great place to get a glimpse of filling and warming Russian lunch, specifically at the “ Gostevaya Izba ” restaurant. Try the duck breast, hearty potato and vegetables, and the awesome Napoleon cake.

Day 7 – Gorky Park, Izmailovo Kremlin, Patriarch’s Ponds

Metro Station: Park Kultury or Oktyabrskaya on Circle Line / Partizanskaya on Dark Blue Line / Pushkinskaya on Dark Green Line

Gorky Park is in the heart of Moscow. It offers many different types of outdoor activities, such as dancing, cycling, skateboarding, walking, jogging, and anything else you can do in a park. Named after Maxim Gorky, this sprawling and lovely park is where locals go on a picnic, relax and enjoy free yoga classes. It’s a popular place to bike around, and there is a Muzeon Art Park not far from here. A dynamic location with a younger vibe. There is also a pier, so you can take a cruise along the river too.

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The Kremlin in Izmailovo is by no means like the one you can find near the Red Square. Originally built for decorative purposes, it now features the Vernissage flea market and a number of frequent fairs, exhibitions, and conferences. Every weekend, there’s a giant flea market in Izmailovo, where dozens of stalls sell Soviet propaganda crap, Russian nesting dolls, vinyl records, jewelry and just about any object you can imagine. Go early in the morning if you want to beat the crowds.

All the Bulgakov’s fans should pay a visit to Patriarch’s Ponds (yup, that is plural). With a lovely small city park and the only one (!) pond in the middle, the location is where the opening scene of Bulgakov’s novel Master and Margarita was set. The novel is centered around a visit by Devil to the atheistic Soviet Union is considered by many critics to be one of the best novels of the 20th century. I spent great two hours strolling the nearby streets and having lunch in the hipster cafe.

Conclusion and Recommendations

To conclude, Moscow is a safe city to visit. I have never had a problem with getting around and most locals are really friendly once they know you’re a foreigner. Moscow has undergone some serious reconstruction over the last few years. So you can expect some places to be completely different. I hope my one week Moscow itinerary was helpful! If you have less time, say 4 days or 5 days, I would cut out day 6 and day 7. You could save the Golden Ring for a separate trip entirely as there’s lots to see!

What are your thoughts on this one week Moscow itinerary? Are you excited about your first time in the city? Let me know in the comments below!

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24 comments.

Ann Snook-Moreau

Moscow looks so beautiful and historic! Thanks for including public transit information for those of us who don’t like to rent cars.

MindTheTravel

Yup, that is me 🙂 Rarely rent + stick to the metro = Full wallet!

Mariella Blago

Looks like you had loads of fun! Well done. Also great value post for travel lovers.

Thanks, Mariella!

I have always wanted to go to Russia, especially Moscow. These sights look absolutely beautiful to see and there is so much history there!

Agree! Moscow is a thousand-year-old city and there is definitely something for everyone.

Tara Pittman

Those are amazing buildings. Looks like a place that would be amazing to visit.

Adriana Lopez

Never been to Moscow or Russia but my family has. Many great spots and a lot of culture. Your itinerary sounds fantastic and covers a lot despite it is only a short period of time.

What was their favourite thing about Russia?

Gladys Parker

I know very little about Moscow or Russia for the\at matter. I do know I would have to see the Red Square and all of its exquisite architectural masterpieces. Also the CATHEDRAL OF CHRIST THE SAVIOUR. Thanks for shedding some light on visiting Moscow.

Thanks for swinging by! The Red Square is a great starting point, but there way too many places and things to discover aside from it!

Ruthy @ Percolate Kitchen

You are making me so jealous!! I’ve always wanted to see Russia.

Moscow is in my bucket list, I don’t know when I can visit there, your post is really useful. As a culture rich place we need to spend at least week.

DANA GUTKOWSKI

Looks like you had a great trip! Thanks for all the great info! I’ve never been in to Russia, but this post makes me wanna go now!

Wow this is amazing! Moscow is on my bucket list – such an amazing place to visit I can imagine! I can’t wait to go there one day!

The building on the second picture looks familiar. I keep seeing that on TV.

Reesa Lewandowski

What beautiful moments! I always wish I had the personality to travel more like this!

Perfect itinerary for spending a week in Moscow! So many places to visit and it looks like you had a wonderful time. I would love to climb that tower. The views I am sure must have been amazing!

I was lucky enough to see the skyline of Moscow from this TV Tower and it is definitely mind-blowing.

Chelsea Pearl

Moscow is definitely up there on my travel bucket list. So much history and iconic architecture!

Thumbs up! 🙂

Blair Villanueva

OMG I dream to visit Moscow someday! Hope the visa processing would be okay (and become more affordable) so I could pursue my dream trip!

Yup, visa processing is the major downside! Agree! Time and the money consuming process…

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Home » Europe » Moscow

EPIC MOSCOW Itinerary! (2024)

Moscow is the heart of Mother Russia. Just the mention of this city conjures images of colorful bulbous pointed domes, crisp temperatures, and a uniquely original spirit!

Moscow has an incredibly turbulent history, a seemingly resilient culture, and a unique enchantment that pulls countless tourists to the city each year! Although the warmer months make exploring Moscow’s attractions more favorable, there’s just something about a fresh snowfall that only enhances the appearance of the city’s iconic sites!

If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or simply wanting to see as much of the city as possible, this Moscow itinerary will help you do just that!

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Best Time To Visit Moscow

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Here is a quick look at the seasons so you can decide when to visit Moscow!

The summer months (June-August) are a great time to travel to Moscow to take advantage of the enjoyable mild temperatures. This is considered peak travel season. Bear in mind that hotel prices rise along with the temperatures!

If you’re planning a trip to Moscow during fall (September-November) try to plan for early fall. This way the temperatures will still be pleasant and winter won’t be threatening.

Russian winters (December-February) are not for the faint of heart as Napoleon learned to his peril. Some days the sun will be out for less than an hour, and snow is guaranteed. Although winters are exceptionally cold, this is when you’ll get a true glimpse of the Moscow experience!

The best time to visit Moscow is during spring  (March-May). The temperatures will begin to creep up and the sun begins to shine for significant portions of the day. Hotel rates will also have yet to skyrocket into peak ranges!

With a Moscow City Pass , you can experience the best of Moscow at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

Moscow is a large city with many accommodation options to choose from. Staying in a location that fits with your travel plans will only enhance your Moscow itinerary. Here is a brief introduction to a few great areas of the city we recommend checking out!

The best place to stay in Moscow to be close to all the action is Kitay-Gorod. This charming neighborhood will put you within walking distance to Moscow’s famous Red Square, thus cutting down on travel time. This will allow you to see more of the city in a shorter amount of time!

It’s surrounded by restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops. If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or just planning a quick weekend in Moscow, then this area is perfect for you!

Another great area to consider is the Zamoskvorechye district. This area of the city offers a blend of new and old Moscow. It has an artsy vibe and there are plenty of fun sites you can explore outside of the main touristy areas of Moscow.

Of course, as in all areas of Moscow, it’s close to public transportation that will quickly connect you with the rest of the city and make your Moscow itinerary super accessible!

Best Airbnb in Moscow – Exclusive Apartment in Old Moscow

Modern and cozy, this apartment is in the heart of Old Moscow. Bordering the Basmanny and Kitay-Gorod districts, this two-bedroom flat is walking distance to the Kremlin and Red Square. Safe, quiet, and comfortable, this is the best Airbnb in Moscow, no question!

Best Budget Hotel in Moscow – Izmailovo Alfa Hotel

The Izmailovo Alfa Hotel is a very highly rated accommodation that provides all the components necessary for a comfortable trip to Moscow. There is an on-site restaurant, bar, fitness center, and an airport shuttle service. The rooms are modern and spacious and are equipped with a TV, heating/air conditioning, minibar, and more!

Best Luxury Hotel in Moscow – Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre

If you’re touring Moscow in luxury, the Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre is the hotel for you! Elegantly furnished rooms are equipped with a minibar, flat-screen TV,  in-room safes, as well as tea and coffee making facilities! Bathrooms come with bathrobes, slippers, and free toiletries. There is also an onsite restaurant, bar, and fitness center.

Best Hostel in Moscow – Godzillas Hostel

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station. Guests will enjoy all the usual hostel perks such as self-catering facilities, 24-hour reception, Free Wi-Fi, and security lockers. This is one of the best hostels in Moscow and its wonderful social atmosphere and will make your vacation in Moscow extra special!

Godzillas Hostel is one of our favourites in Moscow but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.

An important aspect of planning any trip is figuring out the transportation situation. You’re probably wondering how you’re going to get to all of your Moscow points of interest right? Luckily, this sprawling city has an excellent network of public transportation that will make traveling a breeze!

The underground metro system is the quickest and most efficient way to travel around Moscow. Most visitors rely exclusively on this super-efficient transportation system, which allows you to get to pretty much anywhere in the city! It’s also a great option if you’re planning a Moscow itinerary during the colder months, as you’ll be sheltered from the snow and freezing temperatures!

If you prefer above-ground transportation, buses, trams, and trolleybuses, run throughout the city and provide a rather comfortable alternative to the metro.

Moscow’s metro, buses, trams, and trolleybuses are all accessible with a ‘Troika’ card. This card can be topped up with any sum of money at a metro cash desk. The ticket is simple, convenient, and even refundable upon return to a cashier!

No matter which method you choose, you’ll never find yourself without an easy means of getting from point A to point B!

Red Square | Moscow Kremlin | Lenin’s Mausoleum | St. Basil’s Cathedral  | GUM Department Store

Spend the first day of your itinerary taking your own self guided Moscow walking tour around the historic Red Square! This is Moscow’s compact city center and every stop on this list is within easy walking distance to the next! Get ready to see all of the top Moscow landmarks!

Day 1 / Stop 1 – The Red Square

• Why it’s awesome: The Red Square is the most recognizable area in Moscow, it has mesmerizing architecture and centuries worth of history attached to its name.
• Cost: Free to walk around, individual attractions in the square have separate fees. 
• Food nearby: Check out Bar BQ Cafe for friendly service and good food in a great location! The atmosphere is upbeat and they’re open 24/7!

The Red Square is Moscow’s historic fortress and the center of the Russian government. The origins of the square date back to the late 15th century, when Ivan the Great decided to expand the Kremlin to reflect Moscow’s growing power and prestige!

During the 20th century, the square became famous as the site for demonstrations designed to showcase Soviet strength. Visiting the Red Square today, you’ll find it teeming with tourists, who come to witness its magical architecture up close!

The square is the picture postcard of Russian tourism, so make sure to bring your camera when you visit! No matter the season, or the time of day, it’s delightfully photogenic! 

It’s also home to some of Russia’s most distinguishing and important landmarks, which we’ve made sure to include further down in this itinerary. It’s an important center of Russia’s cultural life and one of the top places to visit in Moscow!

In 1990, UNESCO designated Russia’s Red Square as a World Heritage site. Visiting this historic site is a true bucket-list event and essential addition to your itinerary for Moscow!

Day 1 / Stop 2 – The Moscow Kremlin

• Why it’s awesome: The Moscow Kremlin complex includes several palaces and cathedrals and is surrounded by the Kremlin wall. It also houses the principal museum of Russia (the Kremlin Armory).
• Cost: USD $15.00
• Food nearby: Bosco Cafe is a charming place to grat a casual bite to eat. They have excellent coffee and wonderful views of the Red Square and the Moscow Kremlin!

The iconic Moscow Kremlin , also known as the Kremlin museum complex, sits on Borovitsky Hill, rising above the Moscow River. It is a fortified complex in the center of the city, overlooking several iconic buildings in the Red Square!

It’s the best known of the Russian Kremlins – citadels or fortress’ protecting and dominating a city. During the early decades of the Soviet era, the Kremlin was a private enclave where the state’s governing elite lived and worked.

The Kremlin is outlined by an irregularly shaped triangular wall that encloses an area of 68 acres! The existing walls and towers were built from 1485 to 1495. Inside the Kremlin museum complex, there are five palaces, four cathedrals, and the enclosing Kremlin Wall with Kremlin towers.

The Armoury Chamber is a part of the Grand Kremlin Palace’s complex and is one of the oldest museums of Moscow, established in 1851. It showcases Russian history and displays many cherished relics. Definitely make sure to check out this museum while you’re here!

The churches inside the Moscow Kremlin are the Cathedral of the Dormition, Church of the Archangel, Church of the Annunciation, and the bell tower of Ivan Veliki (a church tower).

The five-domed Cathedral of the Dormition is considered the most famous. It was built from 1475–1479 by an Italian architect and has served as a wedding and coronation place for great princes, tsars, and emperors of Russia. Church services are given in the Kremlin’s numerous cathedrals on a regular basis.

The Grand Kremlin Palace was the former Tsar’s Moscow residence and today it serves as the official workplace of the President of the Russian Federation (Vladimir Putin seems to have bagged that title for life) .

Insider Tip: The Kremlin is closed every Thursday! Make sure to plan this stop on your Moscow itinerary for any other day of the week!

Day 1 / Stop 3 – Lenin’s Mausoleum

• Why it’s awesome: The mausoleum displays the preserved body of Soviet leader Vladimir Lenin .
• Cost: Free!
• Food nearby: Khinkal’naya is a charming Georgian restaurant with vaulted ceilings and exposed brick. It’s a popular place with locals and right next to the Red Square!

Lenin’s Mausoleum, also known as Lenin’s Tomb, is the modernist mausoleum for the revolutionary leader Vladimir Lenin. It’s located within the Red Square and serves as the resting place for the Soviet leader! His preserved body has been on public display since shortly after his death in 1924.

It’s located just a few steps away from the Kremlin Wall and is one of the most controversial yet popular Moscow attractions!

Admission is free for everyone, you’ll only need to pay if you need to check a bag. Before visitors are allowed to enter the mausoleum, they have to go through a metal detector first. No metal objects, liquids, or large bags are allowed in the mausoleum!

Expect a line to enter the building, and while you’re inside the building, you’ll be constantly moving in line with other visitors. This means you won’t be able to spend as long as you’d like viewing the mausoleum, but you’ll still be able to get a good look. Pictures and filming while inside the building are strictly prohibited, and security guards will stop you if they see you breaking this rule.

The mausoleum is only open on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday – unless it’s a public holiday or a day scheduled for maintenance. The hours it’s open for each day are limited, make sure to check online before you visit to make sure you can fit this into your Moscow itinerary for that day!

Insider Tip: The Lenin’s Museum is there for people to pay their respect; remember to keep silent and move along quickly, it’s not intended for people to congregate around. Also, men are not allowed to wear hats and everyone must take their hands out of their pockets when inside the building.

Day 1 / Stop 4 – St. Basil’s Cathedral

• Why it’s awesome: A dazzling designed cathedral that showcases Russia’s unique architecture. This cathedral is one of the most recognizable symbols of the country!
• Cost: USD $8.00
• Food nearby: Moskovskiy Chaynyy Klub is a cozy cafe serving food items and pipping hot tea; it’s the perfect place to go if you’re visiting Moscow during the winter months!

Located in the Red Square, the ornate 16th-century St. Basil’s Cathedral is probably the building you picture when you think of Moscow’s unique architecture. Its colorful onion-shaped domes tower over the Moscow skyline!

The cathedral was built from 1555-1561 by order of Tsar Ivan the Terrible. It was designed with an iconic onion dome facade and enchanting colors that captivate all who see it. Fun fact: If you’re wondering why Russian churches have onion domes, they are popularly believed to symbolize burning candles!

This iconic cathedral has become a symbol of Russia due to its distinguishing architecture and prominent position inside the Red Square. It’s one of the most beautiful, wonderful, and mesmerizing historical cathedrals in the world!

The interior of the church surprises most people when they visit. In contrast to the large exterior, the inside is not so much one large area, but rather a collection of smaller areas, with many corridors and small rooms. There are 9 small chapels and one mausoleum grouped around a central tower.

Visiting the inside is like walking through a maze, there are even small signs all around the cathedral tracing where to walk, and pointing you in the right direction! The walls are meticulously decorated and painted with intricate floral designs and religious themes.

The church rarely holds service and is instead a museum open for the public to visit.

Insider Tip: During the summer months the line to go inside the cathedral can get quite long! Make sure to arrive early or reserve your tickets online to guarantee quick access into the cathedral!

Day 1 / Stop 5 – GUM Department Store

• Why it’s awesome: This is Russia’s most famous shopping mall! It’s designed with elegant and opulent architecture and provides a real sense of nostalgia!
• Cost: Free to enter
• Food nearby: Stolovaya 57 is a cafeteria-style restaurant with a variety of inexpensive Russian cuisine menu items including soups, salads, meat dishes, and desserts. It’s also located inside the GUM department store, making it very easily accessible when you’re shopping!

The enormous GUM Department Store is located within the historic Red Square. It has a whimsical enchantment to it that sets it apart from your typical department store.

A massive domed glass ceiling lines the top of the building and fills the interior with natural sunlight. There are live plants and flowers placed throughout the mall that give the shopping complex a lively and cheerful feel! A playful fountain sits in the center, further adding to the malls inviting a sense of wonder and amusement!

The GUM department store opened on December 2, 1893. Today, it includes local and luxury stores, including Fendi, Louis Vuitton, Prada, and many more! There are numerous cafes, restaurants, and even a movie theater inside!

For a special treat, head into Gastronom 1. This 1950s-style shop sells gourmet food items, like wine, freshly-baked pastries, cheese, Russian chocolate, and of course, vodka! Also, be on the lookout for a bicycle pedaling ice cream truck with an employing selling ice cream!

The ambiance is simply amazing, a trip to this idyllic shopping mall is an absolute must on any Moscow itinerary!

Insider Tip: Make sure to carry some small change on you in case you need to use the restroom, you’ll need to pay 50 rubles – or about USD $0.80 to use the bathroom in GUM.

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Novodevichy Convent | Gorky Park | State Tretyakov Gallery | All-Russian Exhibition Center | Bolshoi Theater

On your 2 day itinerary in Moscow, you’ll have a chance to use the city’s excellent public transportation service! You’ll explore a few more of Moscow’s historic highlight as well as some modern attractions. These sites are a little more spread out, but still very easily accessible thanks to the metro!

Day 2 / Stop 1 – Novodevichy Convent

• Why it’s awesome: The Novodevichy Convent is rich in imperial Russian history and contains some of Russia’s best examples of classical architecture!
• Cost: USD $5.00
• Food nearby: Culinary Shop Karavaevs Brothers is a cozy and simple place to have a quick bite, they also have vegetarian options!

The Novodevichy Convent is the best-known and most popular cloister of Moscow. The convent complex is contained within high walls, and there are many attractions this site is known for! 

The six-pillared five-domed Smolensk Cathedral is the main attraction. It was built to resemble the Kremlin’s Assumption Cathedral and its facade boasts beautiful snowy white walls and a pristine golden onion dome as its centerpiece. It’s the oldest structure in the convent, built from 1524 -1525, and is situated in the center of the complex between the two entrance gates.

There are other churches inside the convent as well, all dating back from many centuries past. The convent is filled with an abundance of 16th and 17th-century religious artworks, including numerous large and extravagant frescos!

Just outside the convent’s grounds lies the Novodevichy Cemetery. Here, you can visit the graves of famous Russians, including esteemed authors, composers, and politicians. Probably the most intriguing gravestone belongs to Russian politician Nikita Khruschev!

The Novodevichy Convent is located near the Moscow River and offers a peaceful retreat from the busy city. In 2004, it was proclaimed a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The convent remains remarkably well-preserved and is an outstanding example of Moscow Baroque architecture! 

Insider Tip: To enter the cathedrals inside the complex, women are advised to cover their heads and shoulders, while men should wear long pants.

Day 2 / Stop 2 – Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure

• Why it’s awesome: A large amusement area in the heart of the city offering many attractions!
• Cost: Free! 
• Food nearby: Check out Mepkato, located inside Gorky Central Park for a casual meal in a cozy setting. There are indoor and outdoor seating options and the restaurant is child-friendly!

Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure is a large green space in the heart of Moscow. The park opened in 1928, and it stretches along the scenic embankment of the Moskva River. It covers an area of 300-acres and offers a lovely contrast from the compact city center.

You’ll find all sorts of wonderful attractions, from boat rides to bike rentals to tennis courts and ping-pong tables, and much more! there are an open-air cinema and festive events and concerts scheduled in the summer months.  A wide selection of free fitness classes is also offered on a regular basis, including jogging, roller skating, and dancing!

Although many of the options you’ll find here are more suited for outdoor leisure during the summer, you’ll also a selection of winter attractions, including one of Europe’s largest ice rinks for ice-skating!

If you’re trying to decide what to do in Moscow with kids, the park also offers several venues designed specifically for kids. Check out the year-round Green School which offers hands-on classes in gardening and art! You can also feed the squirrels and birds at the Golitsinsky Ponds!

The park is very well maintained and kept clean and the entrance is free of charge, although most individual attractions cost money. There is also Wi-Fi available throughout the park.

With so many attractions, you could easily spend all day here! If you’re only planning a 2 day itinerary in Moscow, make sure to plan your time accordingly and map out all the areas you want to see beforehand!

Day 2 / Stop 3 – The State Tretyakov Gallery

• Why it’s awesome: The gallery’s collection consists entirely of Russian art made by Russian artists!
• Food nearby : Brothers Tretyakovs is located right across the street from the gallery. It’s a wonderfully atmospheric restaurant serving top quality food and drinks!

The State Tretyakov Gallery was founded in 1856 by influential merchant and collector Pavel Tretyakov.  The gallery is a national treasury of Russian fine art and one of the most important museums in Russia!

It houses the world’s best collection of Russian art and contains more than 130, 000 paintings, sculptures, and graphics! These works have been created throughout the centuries by generations of Russia’s most talented artists!

The exhibits range from mysterious 12th-century images to politically charged canvases. The collection is rich and revealing and offers great insight into the history and attitudes of this long-suffering yet inspired people!

All pictures are also labeled in English. If you plan to take your time and see everything inside the museum it will take a good 3-4 hours, so make sure to plan your Moscow trip itinerary accordingly! This gallery is a must-see stop for art lovers, or anyone wanting to explore the local culture and history of Russia in a creative and insightful manner! 

Insider Tip: When planning your 2 days in Moscow itinerary, keep in mind that most museums in Moscow are closed on Mondays, this includes The State Tretyakov Gallery!

Day 2 / Stop 4 – All-Russian Exhibition Center

• Why it’s awesome: This large exhibition center showcases the achievements of the Soviet Union in several different spheres. 
• Food nearby: Varenichnaya No. 1 serves authentic and homestyle Russian cuisine in an intimate and casual setting.

The All-Russian Exhibition Center is a massive park that presents the glory of the Soviet era! It pays homage to the achievements of Soviet Russia with its many different sites found on the property.

The center was officially opened in 1939 to exhibit the achievements of the Soviet Union. It’s a huge complex of buildings and the largest exhibition center in Moscow. There are several exhibition halls dedicated to different achievements and every year there are more than one hundred and fifty specialized exhibitions!

The Peoples Friendship Fountain was constructed in 1954 and is a highlight of the park. The stunning gold fountain features 16 gilded statues of girls, each representing the former Soviet Union republics. 

The Stone Flower Fountain was also built in 1954 and is worth checking out. The centerpiece of this large fountain is a flower carved from stones from the Ural Mountains! Along the side of the fountain are various bronze sculptures.

You will find many people zipping around on rollerblades and bicycles across the large area that the venue covers. It’s also home to amusement rides and carousels, making it the perfect place to stop with kids on your Moscow itinerary! Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and allow a few hours to explore all the areas that interest you!

Day 2 / Stop 5 – Bolshoi Theater

• Why it’s awesome: The Bolshoi Theater is a historic venue that hosts world-class ballet and opera performances!
• Cost: Prices vary largely between USD $2.00 –  USD $228.00 based on seat location.
• Food nearby: Head to the Russian restaurant, Bolshoi for high-quality food and drinks and excellent service!

The Bolshoi Theater is among the oldest and most renowned ballet and opera companies in the world! It also boasts the world’s biggest ballet company, with more than 200 dancers!

The theater has been rebuilt and renovated several times during its long history. In 2011 it finished its most recent renovation after an extensive six-year restoration that started in 2005. The renovation included an improvement in acoustics and the restoration of the original Imperial decor.

The Bolshoi Theater has put on many of the world’s most famous ballet acts! Tchaikovsky’s ballet Swan Lake premiered at the theater in 1877 and other notable performances of the Bolshoi repertoire include Tchaikovsky’s The Sleeping Beauty and The Nutcracker!

Today, when you visit the theater, you can expect a magical performance from skilled singers, dancers, and musicians with the highest level of technique!

If you don’t have time to see a show, the theater also provides guided tours on select days of the week. Tours are given in both Russian and English and will provide visitors with a more intimate look at the different areas of the theater!

The stage of this iconic Russian theater has seen many outstanding performances. If you’re a fan of the performing arts, the Bolshoi Theater is one of the greatest and oldest ballet and opera companies in the world, making it a must-see attraction on your Moscow itinerary!

Godzillas Hostel

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station.

• Towels Included

Cosmonautics Museum | Alexander Garden | Ostankino Tower | Izmaylovo District | Soviet Arcade Museum

Now that we’ve covered what to do in Moscow in 2 days, if you’re able to spend more time in the city you’re going to need more attractions to fill your time. Here are a few more really cool things to do in Moscow we recommend!

Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics

• Hear the timeline of the ‘space race’ from the Russian perspective
• This museum is fun for both adults and children!
• Admission is USD $4.00

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a museum dedicated to space exploration! The museum explores the history of flight, astronomy, space exploration, space technology, and space in the arts. It houses a large assortment of Soviet and Russian space-related exhibits, and the museum’s collection holds approximately 85,000 different items!

The museum does an excellent job of telling the full story of the exciting space race between the USSR and the US! It highlights the brightest moments in Russian history and humanity and is very interesting and fun for all ages!

If you’re a fan of space or just curious about gaining insight into Russia’s fascinating history of space exploration, make sure to add this to your 3 day itinerary in Moscow!

The Alexander Garden

• A tranquil place to relax near the Red Square
• Green lawns dotted with sculptures and lovely water features
• The park is open every day and has no entrance fee

The Alexander Garden was one of the first urban public parks in Moscow! The garden premiered in 1821 and was built to celebrate Russia’s victory over Napoleon’s forces in 1812!

The park is beautiful and well maintained with paths to walk on and benches to rest on. The park contains three separate gardens: the upper garden, middle garden, and lower garden.

Located in the upper garden, towards the main entrance to the park is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier with its eternal flame. This monument was created in 1967 and contains the body of a soldier who fell during the Great Patriotic War!

The park stretches along all the length of the western Kremlin wall for about half a mile. Due to its central location in the city, it’ll be easily accessible when you’re out exploring The Red Square.

It provides a bit of relief from the city’s high-energy city streets. Bring a picnic lunch, go for a walk, or just sit and people watch, this is one of the best Moscow sites to wind-down and relax!

Ostankino Television Tower

• Television and radio tower in Moscow
• Currently the tallest free-standing structure in Europe
• Make sure you bring your passport when you visit, you can’t go up without it!

For spectacular views of the city, make sure to add the Ostankino Television Tower to your itinerary for Moscow! This impressive free-standing structure provides stunning views of the city in every direction. The glass floor at the top also provides great alternative views of the city!

It takes just 58 seconds for visitors to reach the Tower’s observation deck by super fast elevator. The tower is open every day for long hours and is a great site in Moscow to check out! There is even a restaurant at the top where you can enjoy rotating views of the city while you dine on traditional Russian cuisine or European cuisine!

The tower is somewhat of an architectural surprise in a city that is not known for skyscrapers! To see the city from a new perspective, make sure to add this stop to your Moscow itinerary!

Izmaylovo District

• The most popular attractions in this district are the kremlin and the flea market
• Outside of the city center and easy to reach via metro
• Most popular during the summer and on weekends

Travel outside the city center and discover a unique area of the city! The Izmaylovo District is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, and one of the coolest places to see in Moscow! The two main attractions we recommend checking out are the Kremlin and the flea market.

The Izmailovo Kremlin was established as a cultural center and molded after traditional Russian architecture. This colorful complex is home to several single-subject museums, including a Russian folk art museum and a vodka museum!

Next to the Kremlin is the Izmailovo open-air market, which dates back to the 17th century! The market is connected to the Izmailovo Kremlin by a wooden bridge. Pick up all your Russian souvenirs here, including traditional handicrafts, paintings, books, retro toys, and Soviet memorabilia!

You will find many hand-made and hand-painted options available at higher prices, as well as mass-produced souvenir options at lower prices!

Museum of Soviet Arcade Games

• Closed on Mondays
• Filled with old arcade games that visitors get to try out!
• The museum also includes a small cafe and burger shop

For something a little different, check out the Museum of Soviet Arcade Games! The museum features roughly 60 machines from the Soviet era, including video games, pinball machines, and collaborative hockey foosball! The machines inside the museum were produced in the USSR in the mid-1970s.

The best part is, most of the games are still playable! Purchase tickets and try the games out for yourself! The museum also has a neat little screening room that plays old Soviet cartoons and an area with Soviet magazines! This unique attraction is a fun addition to a 3 day itinerary in Moscow, and an attraction that all ages will enjoy! 

Whether you’re spending one day in Moscow, or more, safety is an important thing to keep in mind when traveling to a big city! Overall, Moscow is a very safe place to visit. However, it is always recommended that tourists take certain precautions when traveling to a new destination!

The police in Moscow is extremely effective at making the city a safe place to visit and do their best to patrol all of the top Moscow, Russia tourist attractions. However, tourists can still be a target for pickpockets and scammers.

Moscow has a huge flow of tourists, therefore there is a risk for pickpocketing. Simple precautions will help eliminate your chances of being robbed. Stay vigilant, keep your items close to you at all times, and don’t flash your valuables!

If you’re planning a solo Moscow itinerary, you should have no need to worry, as the city is also considered safe for solo travelers, even women. Stay in the populated areas, try and not travel alone late at night, and never accept rides from strangers or taxis without a meter and correct signage.

The threat of natural disasters in Moscow is low, with the exception of severe winters when the temperature can dip below freezing! Bring a good, warm jacket if you visit in Winter.

However, please note that Russian views on homsexuality are far less accepting than those in Western Europe. Likewise, Non-Caucasian travellers may sadly encounter racism in Russia .

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Now that we’ve covered all the top things to see in Moscow, we thought we’d include some exciting day trips to other areas of the country!

Sergiev Posad (Golden Ring)

On this 7-hour guided tour, you’ll visit several scenic and historic areas of Russia. Start your day with hotel pick-up as you’re transferred by a comfortable car or minivan to Sergiev Posad. Admire the charming Russian countryside on your drive and enjoy a quick stop to visit the Russian village, Rudonezh!

You’ll see the majestic Saint Spring and the Church of Sergiev Radonezh. You’ll also visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, one of the most famous Orthodox sites in Russia!

Lastly, you’ll swing by the local Matreshka market and enjoy a break in a nice Russian restaurant before returning to Moscow!

Day Trip to Vladimir and Suzdal

On this 13-hour trip, you’ll discover old Russia, with its picturesque landscapes and white-stoned beautiful churches! You’ll visit the main towns of the famous Golden Ring of Russia – the name for several cities and smaller towns north-east of Moscow.

Your first stop will be in the town of Vladimir, the ancient capital of all Russian principalities. The city dates back to the 11th century and is one of the oldest and the most important towns along the Ring! Next, you’ll visit Suzdal, a calm ancient Russian town north of Vladimir with only 13,000 inhabitants!

The old-style architecture and buildings of Suzdal are kept wonderfully intact. If you’re spending three days in Moscow, or more, this is a great option for exploring the charming areas outside the city!

Zvenigorod Day Trip and Russian Countryside

On this 9-hour private tour, you’ll explore the ancient town of Zvenigorod, one of the oldest towns in the Moscow region! As you leave Moscow you’ll enjoy the stunning scenery along the Moscow River, and make a few stops at old churches along the way to Zvenigorod.

Upon arrival, you’ll explore the medieval center, including the 14th-century Savvino-Storozhevsky Monastery. Next, you’ll take a break for lunch (own expense) where you’ll have the chance to try out the Russian cuisine! Next, you’ll visit the Museum of Russian Dessert and sip on tea at a Russian tea ceremony.

The final stop of the day is at the Ershovo Estate, a gorgeous place to walk around and enjoy nature!

Day Trip to St Petersburg by Train visiting Hermitage & Faberge

On this full-day tour, you’ll enjoy a a full round trip to St Petersburg where you’ll spend an exciting day exploring another popular Russian city! You’ll be picked up from your hotel in Moscow and be transferred to the train station where you’ll ride the high-speed train ‘Sapsan’ to St Petersburg.

Upon arrival, you’ll start the day by touring the Hermitage Museum and the Winter Palace. Next, you’ll visit the Faberge Museum, where you’ll explore the impressive collection of rare Faberge Eggs! In the afternoon, enjoy a sightseeing boat ride and a traditional 3-course Russian lunch.

If you’re spending 3 days in Moscow, or more, this is an excellent trip to take!

Trip to Kolomna – Authentic Cultural Experience from Moscow

On this 10-hour tour, you’ll escape the city and travel to the historic town of Kolomna! First, you’ll visit the 14th-century Kolomna Kremlin, home to the Assumption Cathedral and an abundance of museums!

Next, enjoy lunch at a local cafe (own expense) before embarking on a tour of the Marshmallow Museum – of course, a marshmallow tasting is provided!  Your final stop is the Museum of Forging Settlements, where displays include armor and accessories for fishing and hunting.

Discover this beautiful Russian fairytale city on a private trip, where all of the planning is taken care of for you!

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Find out what people want to know when planning their Moscow itinerary.

How many days you need in Moscow?

We recommend that you spend at least two or three days in Moscow to take it all in.

What’s the best month to visit Moscow?

The best time to visit Moscow is over the spring, from March to May as temperatures are mild, crowds are thin and prices are reasonable.

What are some unusual things to do in Moscow?

I mean, queuing up to see an almost 100 year old corpse is pretty unsual! Check out Lenin’s Mausoleum if you fancy it!

What are some fun things to do in Moscow?

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a fun place to explore the famous space race from the perspective of the ‘other side’!

We hope you enjoyed our Moscow itinerary! We’ve made sure to cover all the Moscow must-sees as well as some unique attractions in the city! Our addition of insider tips, favorite food stops, and day trips from Moscow is an added bonus and will guarantee you make the most out of your exciting Russian vacation!

Immerse yourself in the modern and traditional Russian lifestyle! Get lost in museums, witness awe-inspiring architecture, and indulge in Russian cuisine! Spend the day strolling through all of the charming sites of Moscow, admiring the beautiful scenery and discovering the city’s fairytale-like enchantment!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Alya and Campbell

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