Tip 1: Select color contacts that don't cost a fortune

Color contact lenses are not as expensive as they were five years ago and prices can vary dramatically from brand to brand. Of course, you don't want to go for the cheapest color lenses (their look will only disappoint you), but it is still possible to find good color contacts that don't cost a fortune.

First of all, colored lenses can be divided into two major groups - disposable color contacts and annual replacement color lenses. Usually a box of disposable color contacts costs less than a single annual replacement lens. However, it is cheaper to buy a pair of annual replacement lenses than a year's supply of disposal color contacts.

Disposable color lenses which you usually replace every month or 2 weeks are typically sold in boxes of six lenses. Good examples of disposable color contacts are Freshlook Colorblends (monthly lenses), Acuvue 2 Colors (2 weeks disposable) and Expressions (monthly replacement). Annual replacement (which are good for a year) lenses like Durasoft 2 Colors or Illusions come in vials and the price is usually indicated per vial (one lens).

However, be careful. Some sites offer cheap, 'no brand' color contacts. You don't want to get those - not only do they look obviously fake, but they are not comfortable in your eyes.

Tip 2: Look at comparison and review sites to find the cheapest price

After you select the brand you want and have obtained your prescription, it is time to find the best deal. Online prices are generally much lower than those offered by an optometrist's office. Also, from time to time online contact lens retailers put selected lenses on sale, which can get you an even better discount. There are plenty of sites that sell discount color contacts online - you can visit several of them and compare the prices.

But there is an easier way. There are many review sites that help consumers compare online deals. Visit a review site that compares prices at several online contact lens stores and gives reviews of color contact lens merchants. This way you can be sure that the company you want to buy your lens from is reputable and honest.

Tip 3: You can get cheaper color lenses if you buy large quantities.

Most online contact lens retailers give you additional discounts and free shipping on large orders. Even if you order different colors, you can usually get lower prices. For certain color lenses you can also get rebates, if you order a year's supply.

Tip 4: Get free trial color contacts before you order

Few people know about it, but you can try popular color contacts for free. Color contact lens manufacturers are happy to give you a chance to try their color contacts. They can't just send you a pair, however, because you need a prescription for color contacts the same as you do for any contact lenses. But you can get a trial certificate from manufacturer's site, and with this certificate you can get a trial pair at your doctor's office.