You make an investment when you purchase hearing aids, so take steps to keep them safe as you jet around the world. Often times vacations are not as free of worry as you would like. If you come up with a plan to care for and maintain your hearing aids correctly, that’s one less thing to stress about when you travel. What sort of special handling do your hearing aids require when you are on the road?
There Are Some Simple Things You Can do
First, you will need to pack your cleaning kit. Keep cleaning your hearing aids the same way as when you are at home. Most good quality brands come with or offer a specialty cleaning kit that contains a brush or pick. It’s a prudent idea to bring a case for storage and a soft wiping cloth.
Extra batteries will probably be a good idea also. It’s not a bad idea to bring a backup set since you will most likely use your hearing aid more than you normally do. Don’t forget that replacement charger if you own a hearing aid with rechargeable batteries. Your additional charger needs to be put somewhere separate just in case one gets lost.
Also, plan to bring along these other items:
- Tubing
- Soft domes
- Sport clip
When packing up your car double check so that you may be certain that you packed everything that you might need. You never know exactly when you might need one of your hearing aid supplies, so put them in an easy to get at spot. When you are taking a plane, as an example, keep these items in your carry on luggage or bag.
Before leaving Make Certain You Have Your Hearing Aids Checked and Cleaned by a Professional.
One week before leaving bring your hearing aids in for an expert tune-up. When traveling it’s essential that they are correctly working. You may have to bring your hearing aids in for unexpected emergency servicing when you are on vacation so consult your retailer regarding any warranties you might have. Educate yourself on how to file a claim otherwise you might miss something and you could void the warranty.
It won’t hurt to ask if there is an office near where you will be staying, too. Or look up hearing aid repair or retailers on your own. This way you know where to go if you need quick service, a new battery or even a replacement hearing aid.
Some Considerations If You Are Using Hearing Aids at The Airport
Considering all of the changing security criteria, going to the airport is often puzzling. When you are going through the security checkpoint, wear your hearing aids. As you approach the security officers, tell them that you are wearing a hearing aid. If you listen to the security agent’s direction you most likely won’t need to remove them to walk through the metal detector.
You are also free to use your hearing aids on board the airplane. You will not need to turn them off before the plane takes off like you have to with a cell phone, either. Be ready because sometimes your hearing aid won’t work as well when you’re on the plane. Try to fill the void by using visual hints to the flight crew and the others around you so they understand that you can’t hear. If you can’t understand what someone is saying, try cupping your ear to clue them in.
Consider Getting a Dryer or Dehumidifier
Swimming and humid weather go right along with vacations. Even if you don’t plan to go swimming, that doesn’t mean humidity is not still a potential problem. A dryer is a preventative measure worth having year round, but it’s especially important when you’re traveling.
Make Sure You Know How Your Hearing Aids Function
Different features work better in different settings. In a busy restaurant for instance, or at a theme park, you will want to filter out background noise. You will have more fun at the beach if you use outdoor settings. But you have to be familiar with how your hearing aid works if you want to utilize these features.
A Remote Microphone is a Good Thing to Bring
In noisy settings, this will come in handy. You just clip the mic to whoever you are talking with which enhances their voice so that you can converse freely.
Call Ahead to The Resort or Hotel
Popular vacation destinations normally have amenities 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 which shake the bed or have flashing lights should be available. Closed caption televisions and special phones can be requested.
Vacationing is enjoyable, but it can be frantic, too. Get your hearing aids situated before you go, so you can relax and enjoy your trip. Schedule an appointment for a tune-up today.
