If you have bad vision, you probably shudder to think about all of the money that you have spent on eye exams and glasses over the years. Although it's true that eyeglasses can get expensive, they are a necessity if you want to be able to see well. Fortunately, this doesn't mean that you have to spend a fortune every time that you need a new pair. Instead, follow these tips next time you see your eye doctor, and you can get the glasses that you need for a lower price.

1. Ask Your Eye Care Center to Match Online Pricing

If you shop online, you can find great deals on glasses and contact lenses. However, don't assume that you can't get the same deals at your eye care center. If you bring in proof of the pricing that you found, your eye care center may be willing to match the online price. If not, you can always ask for a copy of your prescription so that you can order your glasses or contacts online instead.

2. Buy Two Pairs at Once

Many eye care centers offer special deals if you purchase two pairs of glasses at once. You might get the second pair for free, or you might get it at a huge discount. Either way, it's a smart decision to buy glasses for everyone in your family at once or to purchase a spare pair in case you need it.

3. Clip Coupons

You might think about grocery coupons and coupons for household supplies when you look in your Sunday newspaper, but many eye care centers put out coupons for reduced prices on eyeglasses, eye exams and more. Even if it's a competitor's coupon that you find, you can still take it to your eye care center. Some places are willing to match competitor's coupons just to keep you as a patient and customer.

4. Ask if You Qualify for a Discount

Don't assume that you are being offered all of the discounts that you qualify for. Your eye care center might offer you a reduced rate on eyeglasses or eye exams if you are a member of AAA or AARP, if you're in the military or for other reasons.

5. Ask for Clearance Options

Don't be afraid to ask for frames that are on clearance. You might find cheaper-made or discontinued styles on the "sale rack" that will work perfectly for your needs.

Eyeglasses can get expensive, but there are ways to keep your glasses purchases in your budget. Fortunately, if you give these five tips a try, you can buy the glasses that you need without having to spend nearly as much money. For more information, contact an eye care center like Premier Eye Care & Surgery.