Whatever your reason for traveling, you shouldn’t be put off just because you wear hearing aids. Yes, there are a few extra things to think about. But with some preparation and planning there is no reason to worry.
These tips will help you reduce the stress and maximize the enjoyment of traveling.
General advice
Do some research before your trip so that you are more familiar with your destination. Look for hearing friendly activities, accommodation and places to eat.
Notify your hotel and travel arrangements of your hearing loss and remind them upon your arrival.
We recommend taking a notebook, pen and paper copies of your bookings all in your hand luggage. Also, download useful apps and sign up for updates and alerts about your travel arrangements. It’s possible to find local maps, tourist information and translating apps for reading signs and menus etc.
What to pack
The following are travel essentials for a hearing aid wearer:
- Spare batteries– don’t get caught out if your batteries run out and there is nowhere to buy more. Simply pack an extra set.
- If you have rechargeable batteries, be sure to remember your charger cable and the charging station. Otherwise it’s only a matter of time until you are left without a working device.
- Cleaning items– it’s just as important, if not more to store and clean your hearing aids whilst away from home. This will help keep your device in excellent working order.
- Most vacation destinations are hot or humid environments. It’s best to take a dehumidifier to store your hearing aid in overnight, to remove any moisture that could cause damage.
- Bluetooth accessories can help make the traveling experience a little easier. Eg. at the airport it can be hectic and noisy, a remote mic would help you communicate over all the background noise.
- Finally, have a back up plan. Perhaps a spare hearing aid or an app that works with a headset via your smartphone.
Trains, planes and automobiles
Here are a few things to consider if you are using public transport:
- If there are walk through security scanners, let the security agents know you are wearing hearing aids.
- There will be a lot of background noise such as talking, traffic and engine sounds. Let the attendants know that you wear a hearing aid and keep it on, so that you don’t miss any announcements. Adjust the settings accordingly and if on a plane switch off the FM receiving functions.
- If there is on board movies or music, use noise cancelling headphones.
- Be aware that pressure changes within the airplane cabin can cause tinnitus symptoms.
Follow these travel tips for a more enjoyable traveling experience with less stress. If you have any questions or would like some further information, come in and meet the hearing care professionals at Anderson Audiology. Call 702-997-2964 to speak with our team. Alternatively, click here request an appointment online.