Top dental and vision care travel tips for snowbirds

Posted on February 5, 2026 in Healthy You

senior man and woman walking in airport with luggage

For many retirees, traveling is one of the greatest perks of this stage of life. But long trips, new climates and changes to your daily routine can affect your oral and vision health more than you might expect. Dry mouth, dry eyes, medication changes and access to care all play a role. With a little preparation, you can keep your teeth, gums and eyes comfortable and healthy wherever you go.

Pack a senior-friendly travel care kit

A well-prepared care kit can make daily routines smoother, especially during long travel days or temporary stays.

For your dental health, consider packing:

A soft-bristled or electric toothbrush (with a travel cap to keep it clean)
Travel-sized fluoride toothpaste
Floss or floss picks
Alcohol-free mouth rinse to avoid worsening dry mouth
Sugar-free gum or xylitol lozenges to increase saliva

For your vision care, include:

Lubricating eye drops for dry eyes
A spare pair of glasses
Sunglasses with strong UV protection, which is especially important for older eyes
Contact lens supplies, if applicable

Keeping these items in an easy-to-access pouch helps you stay consistent with your routines, even on busy travel days.

Adjusting to climate changes

Many seniors experience more dryness in their eyes and mouth. Traveling between cold Midwestern winters and warm, dry southern climates can make these symptoms more noticeable.

Managing dry mouth:

Airplane air and desert climates can all worsen dryness. Sip water often, avoid alcohol and caffeinated drinks, and use sugar-free lozenges or gum to help keep your mouth moist. Using a small portable humidifier in your seasonal home can also make a big difference.

Managing dry eyes:

Dry, sunny or windy climates are especially tough on aging eyes. Use artificial tears as needed, wear wide, UV-blocking sunglasses outdoors, and give your eyes breaks from contact lenses or screens. If your eyes feel irritated more often than usual, switch to glasses for a few days to relieve strain.

Prepare for care away from home

Before leaving home for an extended stay, a little preparation can help you avoid stress if a dental or vision issue arises. Here are some things to do before you leave that can make a big difference should a health issue arise.

Schedule preventive checkups before your trip to catch potential problems early.
Review your dental and vision benefits to understand how care works when you’re away from home. You can call Delta Dental’s Customer Service team at the number on the back of your ID card if you have specific questions.
Look up in-network dentists and eye doctors in the area where you’ll be staying. Delta Dental’s Find a Provider tool makes this easy, no matter where you are.
Bring updated copies of your eyeglass and medication prescriptions.

Travel with comfort and confidence

Retirement is the perfect time to explore, and staying proactive about your oral and vision health helps you feel your best while doing it. With the right preparation, snowbirds and senior travelers can enjoy the season ahead with healthy eyes, a comfortable mouth and peace of mind.

SOURCES:

Cleveland Clinic

WellMed