How to Get Free Contact Lenses

Can I Get Contacts for Free?

How to Get Free Contact Lenses by Mail (Yes, Really!)

Want to try contact lenses without paying a dime? You’re in the right place. Whether you’re switching from glasses, looking to try a new brand, or just want colored lenses for fun, this guide will show you exactly how to get free contact lens samples—sometimes delivered right to your door.

Let’s break it down step-by-step.

Why Are Contact Lenses Free? What’s the Catch?

Here’s the big question: Why would a company give away free contacts?

Simple: it’s smart marketing.

If you try a brand and like it, odds are good you’ll buy it again. Contact lens manufacturers are banking on the long-term relationship, not the one-time sale. Giving out free contact lens trials is actually more cost-effective for them than spending a bunch on traditional advertising.

So no, there’s no real “catch” here. It’s not a scam. It’s just how the industry works—and you can absolutely take advantage of it.

Two Easy Ways to Get Free Contact Lens Samples

1. Go Straight to the Manufacturer’s Website

All the major contact lens brands offer free trial lenses through their websites. Here’s how it works:

• Visit the brand’s official site (links below).
• Find their “Free Trial” or “Free Sample” page.
• Fill out a quick form with your contact info.
• Print the trial certificate or email confirmation.
• Take that to your eye doctor.

Most forms don’t take more than 2–3 minutes to fill out. And yes, you can do this for multiple brands to compare them.

Some top brands to check out:

• Acuvue (Johnson & Johnson)
• Air Optix (Alcon)
• Dailies (Alcon)
• Freshlook (colored lenses)
• CooperVision
• Soflens (Bausch & Lomb)
• PureVision2 (Bausch & Lomb)

Can’t find the “Free Trial” link? Just Google:

free [brand] contact lenses trial

2. Just Ask Your Eye Doctor

This might be the easier route. When you go in for an eye exam, ask your doctor if they have free trial lenses available. Many clinics keep samples in stock and can hand them out right away—especially for common prescriptions.

If they don’t have what you need, they’ll order it for you and it’ll either be shipped to your home or available for pickup within a week or so.

You’ll Need an Eye Exam (Here’s Why)

Yes, even for free contact lenses, you need a valid prescription.

That means visiting a local eye doctor for a quick exam. A typical exam costs between $60 and $120—but this is a must for several reasons:

• Contact lenses are medical devices (by law).
• You need a proper prescription to get the right fit and power.
• The doctor may catch other issues with your eye health.

Look for optical departments inside stores like Walmart, Target, Sears, or JCPenney—they usually offer lower-cost exams.

Tip: Ask if they offer a free follow-up visit. Most do, and it’s smart to check how your trial lenses are performing after a week or two.

What If You Have Astigmatism or Other Conditions?

Good news: You can still get free trial contacts if you have a special condition like astigmatism, presbyopia, or need multifocal lenses.

Just keep in mind:

• The selection might be more limited.
• Some samples may need to be ordered instead of handed out on the spot.
• You might go through a few brands or types before finding the perfect fit.

If you have astigmatism, your doctor will prescribe toric lenses. These special lenses have tiny weights in them to keep them properly aligned. Yes—they’re also available in free trials from most brands.

Can You Get Free Colored Contacts?

Yes, you can!

Brands like Freshlook, Air Optix Colors, and Acuvue Define offer colored contacts in trial packs. Whether you want a subtle eye color enhancement or bold costume lenses for Halloween, there are options out there.

Important Note:

Even if you don’t need vision correction, you still need a prescription. Why? Because contact lenses (even “plano” ones) are regulated medical devices. A proper fit keeps your eyes safe and comfortable.

Whatever you do—don’t buy cheap knockoffs online without a prescription. Poorly made colored lenses have caused real damage, including blindness in some cases. Stick with name brands and always consult an eye doctor.

How to Keep Your Eyes (and Your Lenses) Happy

You got your trial lenses—nice!

Now let’s make sure you take care of them properly. Here are a few golden rules:

• Clean lenses nightly using contact lens solution (never just saline unless rinsing).
• Replace your lens case every month or clean it thoroughly.
• Don’t sleep in lenses unless they’re made for extended wear.
• Don’t use tap water on your lenses. Ever.
• Use clean, dry hands when inserting or removing lenses.

If you’re new to contacts, watch a couple of YouTube videos on how to put them in and take them out. It’s easier than you think, and you’ll be a pro in no time.

Pro Tip: Try One Brand at a Time

It’s tempting to try all the free samples at once… but slow your roll.

Try one brand for at least a week before moving on to the next. Keep a quick log or journal with notes like:

• Were they easy to put in/take out?
• How long before they felt dry?
• Did they feel comfortable?
• How was your vision clarity?

By the end, you’ll know which brand works best—and you didn’t pay a cent to figure it out.

Maximize Savings with Insurance and Flex Plans

If you have vision insurance, a Flexible Spending Account (FSA), or Health Savings Account (HSA), you can save even more. These typically cover:

• Eye exams
• Prescription lenses
• Contact lens solution and accessories

And since the money comes out before taxes, you’re basically saving 20–30% off the top.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Leave Free Lenses on the Table

If you wear contacts—or want to start—it makes total sense to try before you buy. Free trials are widely available and easy to get. You just need a current prescription and a few minutes to sign up.

So, what are you waiting for? Go grab your free contact lenses today!

Quick Links: Where to Start

Here are some official trial pages (check them for current offers):

• Acuvue Free Trial: acuvue.com
• Air Optix Free Trial: airoptix.com
• Dailies Free Trial: dailies.com
• FreshLook Colors: freshlookcontacts.com
• CooperVision Trial Lenses: coopervision.com

If those links change, just Google:

[brand] contact lenses free trial

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Want more ways to get free stuff by mail? Check out Tony’s bonus guide on getting free products and gift cards online.