When venturing out to your favorite destination you really should take steps to safeguard your hearing aid investment. It would be nice if all trips were stress-free, but unfortunately, that’s not always the case. If you would like one less concern, come up with a plan to take care of your hearing aid while on your trip. What kind of special handling do your hearing aids require while you are on vacation?
There Are Some Simple Things You Can do
You’ll need a fully packed cleaning kit, for starters. Everything you do while at home to clean your hearing aids, you’ll need to do while you travel. Most good quality hearing aid brands come with or offer a special cleaning kit that offers a brush or pick. You should also bring a soft dry cloth to wipe the surface down and a carrying case to store them in when you are not wearing them.
Extra batteries will most likely be a good idea as well. You will potentially wear your hearing aid more than normal so a backup set is a prudent idea. If your hearing aids have rechargeable batteries, bring along an additional charger, as well. Your replacement charger should be put somewhere separate in case one gets lost.
Think about what extra components you may need for your hearing aids including:
- Tubing
- Soft domes
- Sport clip
Put together a checklist of everything you use at home prior to leaving and double check to make sure you’ve got everything with you before you pack up the vehicle. Pack your hearing aid items in an easy to get to spot to be sure that you can get at them when you need them. Keep this stuff in your carry on bag when you are flying.
Have Your Hearing Aids Professionally Cleaned and Checked Out
Your hearing aids really should be tuned up and cleaned at least a week before you go. When traveling it’s necessary that they are properly functioning. Ask your retailer about any warranties you have on your devices and bring the paperwork with you just in case something happens. Learn how to file a claim or else you may miss something and you could void the warranty.
You ought to check into whether there are any hearing aid retailers near where you are going. This will make it that much more convenient if you require servicing or a new battery.
Using Hearing Aids at The Airport
With all of the changing security specifications, going to the airport is always puzzling. When you are going through the security gate, wear your hearing aids. Notify security that you are wearing them as you approach so that they know ahead of time. most of the time, you probably won’t need to remove them as you step through the metal detector, but listen to the directions of the security officer.
You are also allowed to use your hearing aids on board the airplane. Normally, you be required to turn off cell phones and mobile devices when taking off but you can leave your hearing aids on. Be prepared because sometimes your hearing aid won’t work as well when you’re on the plane. Use visual clues to make people aware that you might not hear as well. Cupping your ear, for example, sends a signal that you can’t understand.
A Drying Kit or Dehumidifier is a Smart Idea
Vacations often go right along with water fun and humidity. Just because you’re not planning to go swimming, it doesn’t mean humidity is not still a potential issue. A dryer is very important when on vacation and also all year round.
Learn About How Your Hearing Aids Operate
Different features work better in different environments. For example, you’ll need to filter out background noise in a restaurant or at a theme park. You will have more fun at the beach if you use outdoor settings. You won’t know what feature to take advantage of if you are not familiar with how your hearing aid works.
Bring Along a Remote Microphone
In noisy settings, this will be helpful. If you are chatting with somebody, clip the microphone to them and you will be able to hear them better.
Call Ahead to The Resort or Hotel
Usually, popular vacation destinations accommodate for the hearing impaired. Since you won’t be using your hearing aids at night you will want to take advantage of that. Smoke alarms that shake the bed or have flashing lights should be available. Closed caption televisions and special phones can be requested.
Traveling is fun, but it can be crazy, 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.