Getting hearing aids is an investment so when you are setting off on vacation, take steps to safeguard them. Vacations should be worry-free, but that’s not always the case. If you come up with a plan to care for and maintain your hearing aids properly, that’s one less thing to worry about while you travel. What sort of specific handling do your hearing aids require while you are on your trip?
Start With the Basics
First of all, you will want to pack a cleaning kit. When going on vacation you still should do everything you do at home to clean your hearing aids. Most quality hearing aid brands come with or offer a special cleaning kit that includes a brush or pick. You should also bring a soft dry cloth to wipe the surface down and a case to put them in when not wearing them.
Extra batteries will most likely come in handy as well. It’s a good idea to bring along a backup since you will probably wear your hearing aid more than you normally do. Don’t forget that replacement charger if you own a hearing aid that has rechargeable batteries. Carry your chargers in separate bags in case one gets misplaced.
Also, plan to bring these other things:
- Tubing
- Soft domes
- Sport clip
When packing up your car check twice to be sure that you packed all the things you might need. Pack your hearing aid supplies in an easily accessible place to be sure that you can get to them anytime. Carry on luggage is the best spot to put these items if you are flying on a plane.
Have Your Hearing Aids Professionally Cleaned and Checked Out
One week before you go bring your hearing aids in for an expert tune-up. When traveling it’s important that they are correctly functioning. Ask the retailer about any warranties you may have on the hearing aids and take any paperwork with you just in case something goes wrong. Learn how to file a claim otherwise you might miss something and you could void your warranty.
It won’t hurt to ask if there is an office close to where you will be staying, as well. Or research hearing aid repair or retailers on your own. If you require a replacement battery or maybe even some repairs, you will be able to bring it right in.
Using Hearing Aids at The Airport
Often times it is hard to understand all of the constantly changing security specifications when you’re at the airport. When you are walking through the security gate, wear your hearing aids. Inform the security officer that you have a hearing aid as you approach so that they know ahead of time. If you adhere to the security agent’s direction you most likely won’t need to take them out to go through the metal detector.
When you are on the plane you can still keep your hearing aids in as well. Normally, you be required to shut off cell phones and mobile devices before taking off but your hearing aid can stay on. You may find that your hearing aids don’t function quite as well on the plane, so be prepared for that if it happens. Use visual clues to let people know you may not hear as well. If you can’t understand what someone is saying, try cupping your ear to make them aware.
A Drying Kit or Dehumidifier is a Smart Idea
Vacations often go right along with swimming and humidity. Just because you don’t plan on going swimming, that doesn’t mean humidity is not still a potential problem. A dryer is very important while on vacation and also all year round.
Learn About How Your Hearing Aids Function
Some features work better 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. You will have more fun at the beach when you use outdoor settings. But you have to be familiar with how your hearing aid operates if you want to use these features.
A Remote Microphone is a Good Thing to Bring Along
A remote microphone will come in handy in noisy environments, when driving in the car, or if you are on a plane. You just clip the microphone to whoever you are talking with to enhance their voice so that you can chat freely.
Call Ahead to The Resort or Hotel
Prominent vacation venues normally have amenities for the hearing impaired. Since you won’t be using your hearing aids during the night you will want to take advantage of that. Ask them about rooms with smoke alarms that flash the lights or shake the bed. Ask if they have special phones for the hearing impaired and televisions with closed captioning.
Vacationing is enjoyable, but it can be crazy, 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.
