Not long ago, my glasses frame broke, and when I went to the local optician and saw the estimate, I was truly taken aback. Even for basic single-vision lenses and frames, it was well over $200, and if I needed progressive lenses, the price shot up to between $300 and $500. I quietly left the store.

However, you don't have to pay those prices. As I mentioned in a previous post, in the U.S., if you know a little bit of information, you can buy the same items for a fraction of the cost. Glasses and contact lenses are perfect examples of this.

The first place I recommend is Zenni Optical. Here, frames start at just $6.95, and prescription sunglasses begin at $14.90. First-time customers can get an additional 15% discount on orders over $65, so it's common to finish a pair of glasses, including lenses, for around $20. Since the same prescription and features can be found for a tenth of the store price, it's a real loss if you don't take advantage of this.

However, some reviews mention that the durability of the frames and the quality of the coatings may be slightly lacking compared to offline stores, so I recommend trying them out first for secondary use, like for kids or sunglasses, rather than as your main pair.

For contact lenses, keep an eye on 1800 Contacts. Their biggest strength is their lowest price guarantee policy; if you capture a link showing a lower price from another site and send it via chat, they will match that price. They have an overwhelming variety of brands, and their return policy is generous, making it especially convenient for those buying prescription lenses online for the first time.

If you're a Costco member, be sure to compare with Costco Optical as well. The average price for completed glasses is definitely lower than that of chain optical stores, and when you buy contact lenses in bulk, you often get immediate discounts at checkout.

As a financial tip, if you have an FSA or HSA account, make sure to use that card for these purchases. Glasses, contacts, and prescription sunglasses are all eligible expenses, so it's like getting an additional discount equivalent to your income tax. I think it's a smart way to spend that balance before the end of the year.

In summary, buy your main glasses cheaply from Zenni, compare contact lenses with 1800 Contacts' price guarantee or Costco, and pay with your FSA or HSA card. Just remember these three points, and you can take care of your eye health much more reasonably than if you just paid in-store.