How to Save Hundreds on Prescription Glasses

If you don't have a vision plan with your health insurance, prescription glasses can cost a fortune.  The last time I went shopping for new glasses my total for glasses was going to be around $350 which included designer frames, prescription lenses and a non-glare coating. 

I also looked at buying some new prescription sunglasses which also totaled at about $350.  All together I would have had to spend $700 to get new glasses and sunglasses and $700 was not something I wanted to part with.  

So what do you do to save money on prescription glasses?  Shop online.  I purchased the same pair of designer glasses, with prescription lenses and a non-glare coating online for $175.

Here's how I saved over 50% on my glasses.

1.  Get your prescription from an optometrist.

2.  Shop in stores for the frames you want.  Jot down the brand name and model number.

3.  Ask to get fitted for frames at the store and ask for that information.  They should give you the size of frames you need and the distance between your pupils.  

4.  Get online and search for the frames you like at websites like:
    - coolframes.com
    - bestbuyeyewear.com
    - 39dollarglasses.com
    - framesdirect.com
    - eyebuydirect.com

5.  When you find your frame select the correct size, then add lenses to your frame.  I found $30 lenses that I added to my frames.  Those same lenses would have cost me $175 at the store.

6.  You will be asked for your prescription and sizing information at checkout.  

I found that online stores had a smaller selection of prescription sunglasses, so you may not be able to find the exact brand name and model of sunglasses you are looking for.  If you are willing to compromise on the frames, you can also save on prescription sunglasses by purchasing them online.