Cheap Contact Lenses in Asia vs USA: My Experience Buying Them in Cambodia, Thailand, Taiwan & the United States
I've purchased cheap contact lenses in Southeast Asia, specifically in Thailand and Cambodia, as well as online in the United States.
Yes, I'm talking about the affordable contact lenses you can often find in shopping malls throughout Southeast Asia.
One of the biggest differences I noticed was how contact lenses are sold. During my visits to Cambodia, Thailand, and Taiwan, I was able to purchase contact lenses over the counter without being asked to show a prescription. In the United States, however, many retailers require a valid contact lens prescription before selling prescription lenses, especially when shopping online.
In the United States, however, many retailers require a valid contact lens prescription before they'll sell you contact lenses, especially if you're shopping online. They ask for your doctor’s office to get your record.
If you're traveling to Southeast Asia or wondering whether it's cheaper to buy contact lenses there, here's what my experience was like and what you should know before making a purchase.
Price Comparison for Two Week Replacements Contact Lenses
| Country | Clear Contact Lenses | Colored Contact Lenses |
|---|---|---|
| Cambodia | US$5–10 per pair | US$3–8 per pair |
| Thailand | US$15–35 per box | Around US$5 per pair |
| Taiwan | US$10–23 per box | US$11–30 |
| United States | US$20–60+ per box | US$20–40+ per pair |
*My experience is based on my visits. Local laws, regulations, and individual store policies may change over time.
Note: Prices are approximate and vary by brand and retailer. In Thailand, Taiwan, and the United States, two-week replacement clear contact lenses are typically sold in boxes containing 6 lenses (3 pairs) for one eye. If your left and right eye prescriptions are different, you'll usually need to purchase two boxes. In Cambodia, I found two-week replacement lenses commonly sold by the pair. Colored contact lenses may be sold by the pair or by the box, depending on the brand and retailer.
Cambodia
Cambodia is one of the easiest places I've found to buy cheap contact lenses. I never had trouble finding my prescription, and there were usually plenty of brands and colors to choose from.
If you're looking for colored contact lenses, I recommend visiting Pencil Supercenter Riverside Branch Mall. They sell a variety of colored contact lenses, along with press-on nails, beauty accessories, and trendy clothing for young adults.
One thing I recommend is checking the expiration date before purchasing. Some stores may still have older stock, so it's always worth taking a quick look at the packaging.
One thing I noticed was that each pair of contact lenses came sealed in its own small glass vial. I actually found the caps surprisingly difficult to remove, which gave me confidence that they were tightly sealed before purchase.
If you find a brand you like, it may be worth stocking up while you're there.
If you're looking for clear prescription contact lenses instead, you can also visit Eye Optics or other optical stores throughout Cambodia, although they can be more expensive depending on the brand. They also sell color contact lenses, but depending on your prescription, you’ll have to order and wait for a few days.
During my visit to Cambodia, I found that two-week replacement contact lenses generally cost around US$5–10, depending on the brand and retailer. Shopping mall vendors often had some of the most affordable prices, while optical stores tended to charge a bit more for well-known brands and specialty prescriptions.
Planning a trip to Asia? Create your itinerary, organize flights and hotels, track your travel budget, build a packing list, plan your outfits, and save your favorite destinations with HaienaPlan. Whether you're visiting Japan, South Korea, Cambodia, Bali, Vietnam, or anywhere else in Asia, HaienaPlan helps you plan every detail in one place. Start planning today at HaienaPlan.com.
Thailand
I bought my contact lenses from a vendor at a shopping mall in Thailand. Many malls have small kiosks or stores that sell contact lenses, colored contacts, and contact lens accessories, so you shouldn't have much trouble finding affordable options.
One thing I liked was the variety. Many vendors had booklets displaying all of the available colored contact lenses, making it easy to browse different styles before buying.
I purchased the two-week replacement lenses, and they worked well for me. I didn't experience any irritation while wearing them. After cleaning and reusing them, I found they were slightly more difficult to insert than when I first opened them, but they remained comfortable to wear.
At around $5 per pair, they were inexpensive enough that I didn't mind trying different colors.
Taiwan
You can also buy contact lenses at convenience stores, drugstores, and supermarkets throughout Taiwan.
The only issue I noticed was that popular prescriptions sometimes sold out, so you may need to visit more than one store if your prescription isn't available.
During my visit, I found that two-week replacement contact lenses generally cost around NT$300–700 (approximately US$10–23) per box, depending on the brand and retailer. I purchased Bausch + Lomb lenses and found them to be affordable, comfortable, and easy to find at convenience stores and supermarkets.
I had no issues with the lenses, and there were plenty of other brands to choose from as well.
Why Are Contact Lenses More Expensive in the United States?
One reason contact lenses often cost more in the United States is that many retailers require a valid contact lens prescription before selling prescription lenses. The cost of eye exams, prescription renewals, and retail pricing can also make purchasing contact lenses more expensive than in many parts of Southeast Asia.
United States
This isn't sponsored. I purchased these contact lenses myself and am simply sharing my personal experience.
If you wear contact lenses, you already know how expensive they can be.
In the United States, I've purchased colored contact lenses from ICOICE, an online retailer that sells both prescription and non-prescription colored contact lenses.
I've purchased several different colors from ICOICE, and I've been happy with all of them. The lenses were comfortable to wear, looked natural once I put them on, and never irritated my eyes.
Most of the colored contact lenses I purchased were designed to be replaced after one year with proper care. They were also easy to put in, even after being cleaned and reused according to the manufacturer's instructions. As always, it's important to follow the manufacturer's guidance for cleaning, storage, replacement schedules, and safe wear.
I also liked the packaging—it was well designed and felt more premium than I expected. The prices are affordable, and the company frequently offers discounts, making them a good option if you're looking for budget-friendly colored contact lenses. They also came in cute contact lens boxes, which made the packaging feel even more premium.
Don't Skip Regular Eye Exams
Even if you're able to buy contact lenses without showing a prescription, it's still important to have regular eye exams. Wearing the wrong prescription or poorly fitting lenses can increase the risk of eye irritation, discomfort, or infection. An eye care professional can also help ensure your eyes remain healthy if you wear contact lenses regularly.
Final Thoughts
Overall, I found buying contact lenses in Southeast Asia to be convenient, affordable, and straightforward. Cambodia, Thailand, and Taiwan all offered plenty of options, whether I was looking for clear prescription lenses or colored contacts.
No matter where you buy your contact lenses, always check the expiration date, purchase from a reputable retailer, and follow proper lens hygiene. Saving money is great, but protecting your eye health should always come first.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are contact lenses cheaper in Southeast Asia?
In my experience, yes. I found contact lenses in Cambodia and Thailand to be much cheaper than what I typically pay in the United States. Prices vary depending on the brand, lens type, and retailer, but there are many affordable options available.
Can you buy contact lenses without a prescription in Southeast Asia?
During my visits to Cambodia, Thailand, and Taiwan, I was able to purchase contact lenses without being asked for a prescription. However, regulations and store policies can change, so your experience may be different.
Where can I buy contact lenses in Cambodia?
I found contact lenses at shopping malls and optical stores throughout Cambodia. If you're looking for colored contact lenses, I recommend checking out Pencil Supercenter Riverside Branch Mall. For clear prescription lenses, you can also visit Eye Optics or other optical stores.
Where can I buy contact lenses in Thailand?
Many shopping malls in Thailand have kiosks and small stores that sell contact lenses, colored contacts, lens solution, and accessories. I purchased mine from a vendor inside a shopping mall.
Where can I buy contact lenses in Taiwan?
During my visit, I found contact lenses at convenience stores, supermarkets, drugstores, and optical shops. Depending on your prescription, you may need to visit more than one store if your power is sold out.
Many people purchased from these stores as contact lenses are common in Taiwan.
Are cheap contact lenses safe?
Price alone doesn't determine whether contact lenses are safe. Always purchase lenses from a reputable retailer, check the expiration date, inspect the packaging for damage, and follow proper cleaning and replacement instructions. If your eyes become irritated or uncomfortable, stop wearing the lenses and consult an eye care professional.
Should I stock up on contact lenses while traveling?
If you find a brand that works well for you and it's within its expiration date, buying a few extra boxes may be convenient. Just make sure you follow your destination country's customs rules and always store your lenses according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Tips Before Buying Contact Lenses in Southeast Asia
Before purchasing contact lenses in Southeast Asia, here are a few things I recommend keeping in mind:
Check the expiration date. Some stores may still have older stock, so always look at the packaging before buying.
Buy from reputable retailers. Shopping malls, optical stores, and well-known retailers are generally better choices than unknown vendors.
Make sure the box is sealed. Avoid purchasing contact lenses if the packaging looks damaged or has already been opened.
Know your prescription. Even if a store doesn't ask for your prescription, you should still know your correct lens power before buying.
Follow proper lens hygiene. Always wash your hands before handling your lenses, clean reusable lenses according to the manufacturer's instructions, and replace them on schedule.
Stop wearing them if they cause discomfort. If your eyes become red, painful, or irritated, remove the lenses immediately and seek advice from an eye care professional.
Disclaimer
This article is based on my personal experience purchasing contact lenses while traveling in Cambodia, Thailand, Taiwan, and the United States. Availability, pricing, local laws, and retailer policies may change over time, so it's always a good idea to verify current information before making a purchase.
Related Articles
If you're planning a trip or looking for more beauty and travel tips, you may also enjoy:
