Buying hearing aids is an investment so when you are setting off on a trip, take precautions to safeguard them. Sometimes getaways are not as worry-free as you would wish. If you come up with a plan to care for and maintain your hearing aids properly, that’s one less thing to stress about while you travel. When traveling, are there any special measures to put in place for the safety of your hearing aids?
Start With the Essentials
First, you will want to bring a cleaning kit. Keep cleaning your hearing aids the same way as you would when you are at home. A brush or pick is included with the majority of quality brand cleaning kits. It’s a prudent idea to bring a carrying case for storage and a soft wiping cloth.
Replacement batteries will most likely be a good idea too. It’s a good idea to bring a backup set because you will most likely use your hearing aid more than you typically do. If your hearing aids come with rechargeable batteries, bring an additional charger, as well. On occasion things get misplaced so carry your additional charger in a separate bag.
Also, make plans to bring along these other things:
- Tubing
- Soft domes
- Sport clip
A checklist is essential to be sure that you haven’t forgotten anything you may need. Put your hearing aid items in an easily accessible spot to be sure that you can access them when you need them. Put this stuff in your carry on luggage if you are flying.
A Professional Cleaning And Checkup is a Good Move Before You Get Going
Take your hearing aids in for a good cleaning and a professional tune-up one week or two before vacation. You want them working their best while you are traveling. You may have to bring your hearing aids in for unexpected emergency service when you are on vacation so be sure to consult your retailer about any warranties you might have. Don’t accidentally void your warranty by skipping something. Take some time to learn how to file a claim.
You should check into whether there are any hearing aid retailers near where you are staying. If you require a replacement battery or maybe even some repairs, you will be able to bring it right in.
Some Considerations If You Are Using Hearing Aids at The Airport
Sometimes it can be hard to know all of the constantly changing security specifications while at the airport. The first thing you need to be aware of is to keep your hearing aids in while walking through the security checkpoints. Notify security that you have a hearing aid as you approach so that they know ahead of time. In most cases, you will not need to remove them as you go through the metal detector, but listen to the directions of the security agent.
While you are on the plane you can still keep your hearing aids in your ears as well. Normally, you might need to turn off cell phones and mobile devices when taking off but your hearing aid can stay on. You may find that your hearing aids don’t work quite as well on the plane, so be prepared for that possibility. Use visual clues to let people know you may not hear as well. Cupping your ear, for instance, indicates that you don’t understand.
Consider Getting a Dryer or Dehumidifier
Swimming and humidity go right along with vacationing. Even if you don’t plan on swimming in a pool or going into the ocean, it is a prudent idea to have a way to dry out your hearing aids during the night to avoid water damage. A dryer is very important while on vacation and also year round.
Make Sure You Know How Your Hearing Aids Work
Certain features work best in one kind of environment, other features work better in a different kind of environment. For instance, you’ll need to filter out background noise in a restaurant or at a theme park. Hearing aids have outdoor settings that can make the beach more fun. You can’t know for sure what feature to use if you are not familiar with how your hearing aid works.
A Remote Microphone is a Good Thing to Bring Along
In loud settings, this will come in handy. When you are chatting with somebody, clip the mic to them and you will be able to hear them better.
Notify the Hotel or Resort
Commonly, popular vacation spots accommodate for the hearing impaired. Since you won’t be using your hearing aids at night you will want to take advantage of that. Ask them about rooms with smoke alarms that have flashing lights or shake the bed. Find out if they have special phones for the hearing impaired and televisions with closed captioning.
Traveling is enjoyable, but it can also be frantic, too. Get your hearing aids situated before you leave, so you can relax and enjoy your trip. Schedule an appointment for a tune-up today.