Buy prescription glasses online and save money. — Alamy

En español | Busting your budget on eyeglasses? Consider buying your next pair online.

Sign up for the AARP Money newsletter.

Web-based opticians may offer substantial discounts over traditional retail stores. And some sites let you do virtual try-ons: You upload a picture of yourself, and the site simulates what you'd look like in different frames. You'll need your prescription, your pupillary distance from an exam and your frame size (check the inside of an old pair). Online opticians include FramesDirect, JustEyewear and WarbyParker.

Be aware that ordering glasses online may not work out for some people, especially those with not-so-simple prescriptions or who need a special fit.

Next: Lowdown on senior airfares. »