Best time of year to book a optician
Best Time of Year to Book an Optician
TL;DR: Book your optician appointment in January to March or September to October for shorter wait times. The summer months (July-August) and December are busiest. Many opticians offer January sales on glasses and contact lenses, making it the cheapest time to visit too.**
Introduction
Getting your eyes tested regularly is crucial for your health. But when’s the best time to book an optician? Timing your appointment right can save you money and time. Finding a good optician near you doesn’t have to be stressful. The reality is that some months are quieter than others. This means you’ll get faster appointments and better availability. You might even catch sales on frames and lenses. Let’s explore when you should actually book that eye test you’ve been putting off.
What’s the Quietest Time at Opticians?
January to March is typically the quietest period at most opticians across the UK. You’ll usually get an appointment within days, not weeks. Many people make New Year’s resolutions about health. But most forget about their eyes. This works in your favour. February is particularly quiet because the weather’s poor and people stay home. September to October sees a smaller rush too. Kids go back to school, and parents book appointments then. But it’s still quieter than peak summer.
Why Are Summer Months So Busy?
Summer holidays mean families want appointments before travelling abroad. July and August are the worst months for booking. People worry about needing glasses for holidays. Children need sight tests before school returns. Parents juggle time off work and kids’ schedules. This creates a perfect storm of demand. You might wait three to four weeks for an appointment. If you do need to book then, call ahead early in the day.
When Should You Book to Get Sales on Glasses?
January offers the best discounts on frames and lenses throughout the year. Most opticians run New Year sales after Christmas stock reduction. You can expect 20-40% off designer frames. Contact lens solutions and cases are often discounted too. February sales continue this trend but with fewer bargains. September back-to-school promotions offer decent deals. But they’re usually aimed at children’s frames. Black Friday in November has some discounts. However, January remains unbeatable for savings.
Should You Avoid Booking in December?
December is extremely busy and stressful for opticians. People rush to use their vision benefits before year-end. Extended waiting times are common. You might struggle to get an appointment before the holidays. Many practices close for a week around Christmas. If you do book then, expect to wait 2-3 weeks. Plan ahead instead. Book in November if you need an appointment before Christmas. Or wait until January when everything calms down.
What About NHS Versus Private Appointments?
NHS eye tests often have longer waiting lists than private opticians. You might wait 4-6 weeks in busy months. Private appointments are faster but cost £25-50. You’re entitled to a free NHS test every two years if eligible. Book your NHS appointment well in advance. Private opticians offer more flexible scheduling. They typically have availability within days. If you need a test urgently, private is your best bet.
Conclusion
The best time to book an optician is January to March or September to October. You’ll get quicker appointments and potentially save money on frames and lenses. Avoid the summer rush and December chaos if you can. Check your NHS eligibility first to save money. Most people need an eye test every two years. Plan ahead and book during quiet seasons. Ready to find your local optician? Find a optician near you by searching our free UK directory.
FAQ
How often should I have an eye test?
Adults should have an eye test every two years minimum. If you wear glasses or contacts, annual tests are recommended. Anyone with eye conditions should visit more frequently.
Can I book an optician appointment online?
Yes, most modern opticians let you book online through their websites. Others prefer phone calls. Check your local optician’s website for their preferred booking method.
Do I need a referral to see an optician?
No, opticians don’t need referrals. You can book directly with any optician. They’re qualified to conduct full sight tests independently.
What’s the difference between an optician and an optometrist?
Optometrists conduct detailed eye tests and diagnose conditions. Opticians dispense glasses and contact lenses. Many practices have both.
Will my appointment take long?
Initial eye tests typically take 30-45 minutes. Follow-up tests are usually quicker at 15-20 minutes. Budget extra time for choosing frames.