Purchasing hearing aids is a financial investment so when you are leaving on vacation, take steps to safeguard them. It would be great if all trips were worry-free, but sadly, that’s often not the case. If you come up with a plan to take care of and safeguard your hearing aids correctly, that’s one less thing to worry about when you travel. When taking a trip, are there any special measures to take for the safety of your hearing aids?
What Are The Basics
Be certain to bring a complete cleaning kit to start with. Anything you do at home to keep your hearing aids clean, you’ll need to do when you travel. Most quality hearing aid brands come with or offer a special cleaning kit that includes a brush or pick. It’s a prudent idea to bring a case for storage and a soft cleaning cloth.
Extra batteries will most likely come in handy also. You will probably wear your hearing aid more than usual so a backup set is a prudent idea. Don’t overlook that extra charger if you own a hearing aid with rechargeable batteries. Your extra charger should be carried somewhere separate just in case one gets misplaced.
Also, make plans to bring along these other items:
- Tubing
- Soft domes
- Sport clip
Make a list of everything you use when you’re at home before leaving and check twice to be certain that you have everything with you before you pack up your vehicle. Put your hearing aid items in an easy to get to place to be sure that you can access them anytime. Carry this stuff in your carry on bag when you are flying.
Have Your Hearing Aids Professionally Cleaned and Checked Out
Take your hearing aids in for a cleaning and tune-up a week or two before you go on vacation. When traveling it’s necessary that they are correctly working. You may have to bring your hearing aids in for emergency servicing when you are on vacation so consult your retailer regarding any warranties you might have. Learn how to file a claim or else you may miss something and you could void your warranty.
It won’t hurt to ask if there is a retailer near where you will be staying, as well. Or research hearing aid repair or retailers on your own. This will make it a lot more stress-free if you need repairs or perhaps a replacement battery.
Using Hearing Aids at The Airport
With all of the changing security requirements, going to the airport is always challenging. When you are going through the security checkpoint, keep your hearing aids in your ear. Notify the security officer that you have a hearing aid as you approach so that they know ahead of time. If you adhere to the officer’s instruction you most likely won’t have to remove them to walk through the metal detector.
When you are on the airplane you can still keep your hearing aids in your ears as well. Usually, you may be required to turn off cell phones and mobile devices while taking off but your hearing aid can stay on. Be prepared because sometimes your hearing aid won’t work as well on the plane. Try to compensate by using visual indicators to the flight attendant and the others near you so they understand you can’t hear. For instance, you can cup your ear to show that you don’t understand.
A Drying Kit or Dehumidifier is a Smart Idea
Swimming and humidity go hand in hand with vacations. Even if you aren’t planning on swimming in a pool or going in the ocean, it is a smart idea to bring a way to dry out your hearing aids at night to avoid water damage. A dryer is a preventative measure worth having all year round, but it’s particularly important when you travel.
Learn About How Your Hearing Aids Function
Different features work better in different settings. In a busy restaurant for instance, or at an amusement park, you will need to filter out background noise. Some have outdoor settings that can make the beach more fun. You can’t know for sure what feature to take advantage of if you are not familiar with how your hearing aid works.
Bring a Remote Microphone
A remote microphone will come in handy in noisy settings, when driving in the car, or if you are on a plane. You just clip the mic to whoever you are talking with to enhance their voice so that you can converse freely.
Notify the Hotel or Resort
Popular vacation venues normally have accommodations for the hearing impaired. You’ll want to take advantage of that because you won’t be using your hearing aids at night. Ask them about rooms with smoke alarms that flash the lights or shake the bed. Closed caption televisions and special phones can be requested.
Going on vacation is enjoyable, but it can be crazy, too. Deal with your hearing aids before you leave, so you can relax and enjoy your trip. Schedule an appointment for a tune-up today.
