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Read on to discover how a good pair of sunglasses enhances safety and comfort for RV travelers on the road.
RV living allows you to move around and travel to different destinations, save money on rent or a mortgage, and still enjoy the convenience of having built-in kitchens and sleeping quarters. This is why it’s no surprise that 3.1 million Americans live full-time in RVs and other vehicles converted into homes. The caveat is that living in an RV can also pose several dangers to your health and wellness, especially since the effects of climate change, like extreme weather conditions, wildfires, and floods, can make RVers vulnerable to weather-related injuries.
Specific safety and maintenance RV essentials are vital for helping you stay ready for a life on the road. These include everything from a water hose and solar lights to a travel app and a water pressure regulator. But while these tools are absolute must-haves for RV life, packing items that focus specifically on health and wellness is equally important. One small yet essential accessory that is crucial to wellness but can sometimes get overlooked by RVers is sunglasses. Read on to discover why a good pair of sunglasses is essential for RV living.
Sun Exposure and Sun Glare
Research published in ScienceDirect notes that sun glare is a critical factor that adversely affects driving safety. Sun glare is the term for harsh and bright solar light that can bounce off reflective surfaces like water, concrete, and snow. When driving your RV, your eyes are exposed to sun glare that can interfere with your vision and sometimes cause momentary blindness. Temporary blindness caused by direct sun exposure can result in misperception of road traffic signs and other obstacles on the road, increasing the probability of accidents. This makes eye protection all the more crucial to help block sun glare.
Sun glare is a real threat when driving your RV. Photo courtesy Pexels
Over 9,000 vehicular accidents are related to sun glare in the US annually. The National Library of Medicine also says that the risk of life-threatening accidents is 16% higher with bright sunlight, making it dangerous to drive your RV during sunny conditions without eye protection. Turning at an intersection or around a road curve in areas with multiple buildings can also increase the chances of absorbing glare reflected by windows. This is why it’s essential to always wear protective eyewear whether you’re driving in the city or the countryside.
Research also shows that while vehicle windows can block UVB rays, these windows cannot filter UVA rays, which cause skin and eye damage. The Skin Cancer Foundation says that unprotected exposure to UV rays can cause premature skin aging, wrinkles, and skin cancer, making sunscreen and window tints essential for RV living. The National Eye Institute also warns that UV light can penetrate the eyes more easily, increasing the risk of ocular problems like photokeratitis, cataracts, macular degeneration, and light sensitivity. This makes sunglasses essential when driving and living in your RV.
Reputable Brands
Choosing the right pair of sunnies protects your eyes from UV rays and glare when driving and living in your RV. A wide range of sunglasses brands are available on the market, from the classic Ray-Ban and sports-focused Oakley to high-end luxury pieces from Versace and Michael Kors. These brands use high-quality materials that ensure durability for long-lasting use on the road, and they have 100% UV protection to safeguard your eyes from harsh light and UV rays that can compromise vision.
Always look for a reputable brand that offers the best UV protection. Photo courtesy Pexels
Always check for a “UV400” or “100% UV Protection” label when picking sunglasses for guaranteed sun safety. This ensures you select frames and lenses that will provide the proper protection, regardless of brand. Some brands also offer tinted lenses in various colors, which you can select based on your driving needs and preferences.
Proper Fit and Lens Choice
You can also opt for sunglasses with polarized lenses that reduce glare, improve contrast, and enhance visual comfort when driving your RV. Avoid sunnies with dark or mirrored lenses without UV-blocking capabilities, as these can only dim your vision without offering the necessary protection.
Always try on sunglasses to ensure a proper fit. Photo courtesy Pexels
Sunglasses that fit properly are also crucial for RVers, as driving across rough terrain can cause your frames to feel uncomfortable or slip off easily. Choose a pair of protective sunnies appropriate for driving, particularly those that pass the ISO 12312-1:2013 safety requirements, which ensure that the sunglasses are suitable and safe for driving. Checking labels and researching can help you find the best pair for RV driving and living.
Purchasing a Good Pair of Sunglasses
Sunglasses provide visual clarity and block UV rays and glare that can compromise your vision on the road. Choosing the right pair of sunnies can help you enjoy RV living without sacrificing your ocular health. Check out the Wander With Wonder website for more RV lifestyle and road trip articles.
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