You make an investment when you buy hearing aids, so take measures to keep them safe and secure as you jet around the world. Vacations should be worry-free, but it doesn’t always turn out that way. 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. When vacationing, are there any special measures to put in place for the protection of your hearing aids?
Start With the Basics
You’ll want a fully packed cleaning kit, for starters. Anything you do while at home to clean your hearing aids, you’ll need to do while you go on vacation. A brush or pick comes with the majority of brand name cleaning kits. You should also pack a soft dry cloth to wipe the surface down and a carrying case to put them in when not wearing them.
It’s a prudent strategy to pack replacement batteries, too. You will most likely wear your hearing aid more than normal so backups are a smart idea. If your hearing aids have rechargeable batteries, bring along an extra charger, too. Every now and then items get lost so carry your replacement charger in a separate bag.
These are some other items you should bring along:
- Tubing
- Soft domes
- Sport clip
When packing up your car double check to be sure you packed all the things you may need. You never know when you may need one of your hearing aid supplies, so pack them in an easy to access spot. When you are taking a plane, for example, put this stuff in your carry on luggage or bag.
Before leaving be Certain You Have Your Hearing Aids Checked and Cleaned by a Professional.
One week prior to going bring your hearing aids in for service. While traveling it’s essential that they are properly functioning. Ask your retailer about any warranties you have on your devices and take the paperwork with you in case something happens. Don’t accidentally void the warranty by missing something. Take the time to learn how to file a claim.
It won’t hurt to find out if there is an office near where you will be staying, too. Or look up hearing aid repair or retailers on your own. If you require a replacement battery or maybe even some repairs, it will be possible to bring it right in.
Wearing Hearing Aids at The Airport
With all the changing security requirements, going to the airport is always perplexing. One thing you should know is to wear your hearing aids while walking through the security checkpoints. As you approach the security officers, tell them that you have a hearing aid in. In most cases, you probably won’t need to remove them as you walk through the metal detector, but follow the instructions of the security agent.
You are also free to wear your hearing aids on the plane. You will not need to turn them off before take off like you do a cell phone, either. You may notice your hearing aids don’t work as well on the plane, so be prepared for that possibility. Try to fill the void with visual clues to the flight attendant and the other people near you so they understand you can’t hear. For instance, you can cup your ear to indicate that you don’t understand.
A Drying Kit or Dehumidifier is a Good Idea
Vacations usually go hand in hand with water fun and humidity. Even if you don’t plan on going swimming in a pool or going in the ocean, it is a smart idea to have a way to dry out your hearing aids during the night to protect against water damage. A dryer is a preventative measure worth having all year round, but it’s particularly important when you’re traveling.
Learn About How Your Hearing Aids Operate
Certain features work best in one kind of setting, other features work better in a different kind of setting. For example, you’ll need to filter out background noise in a restaurant or at an amusement park. You will get more enjoyment out of the beach if you use outdoor settings. But you have to be familiar with how your hearing aid operates if you want to utilize these features.
A Remote Microphone is a Good Thing to Bring Along
In noisy settings, this will be helpful. When you are speaking with somebody, clip the mic to them and you will be able to hear them better.
Call Ahead to The Resort or Hotel
Usually, popular vacation venues accommodate 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 have flashing lights or shake the bed. Ask if they have special phones for the hearing impaired and televisions with closed captioning.
Going on vacation is fun, but it can also be frantic, too. Deal with your hearing aids before you go, so you can relax and enjoy your trip. Schedule an appointment for a tune-up today.