Summer vacations are a time to explore new destinations, relax, and create lasting memories. If you’re a hearing aid user, you’ll need to do some careful planning to make sure you have a great trip. Whether you’re heading to a beach resort, going on an adventure journey, or exploring a new city, here are some travel tips to help you make the most of your summer vacation.
1. Pack Essential Hearing Aid Supplies
Before you leave home, make sure you have all the necessary supplies for your hearing aids. Here’s a checklist of items to pack:
- Extra batteries: Carry a supply of fresh batteries for your hearing aids. If possible, pack them in a separate case or pouch to prevent contact with liquids or other items that can cause damage.
- Cleaning kit: Your compact cleaning kit should include a soft brush, a wax pick, and cleaning wipes that will help you keep your hearing aids in top shape during your trip.
- Extra tubing or receivers: If you wear behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids with tubing or receivers, consider carrying spare parts in case of damage.
2. Protect Your Hearing Aids from Heat and Moisture
Summer weather can be unpredictable, with soaring temperatures and occasional rain showers. Take precautions to protect your hearing aids from excessive heat and moisture, which can cause damage. Here’s what you can do:
- Store in a cool, dry place: When not in use, keep your hearing aids in a cool and dry place, such as a hotel room safe or a pouch with desiccant packs. Avoid leaving them in direct sunlight or close to heat sources.
- Use a protective case or sleeve: Invest in a durable protective case or sleeve that provides extra protection against accidental drops and exposure to heat, moisture, or dirt.
- Consider using a dehumidifier: If your travels include humid regions or activities involving water, consider investing in a hearing aid dehumidifier. These portable devices help remove moisture and dry out your hearing aids overnight, maintaining their functionality and preventing damage.
3. Research Communication Options
Communicating effectively while traveling is important, especially if you encounter language barriers or noisy environments. You can download communication apps on your smartphone, such as Google Translate or communication board apps, which allow you to type or select phrases for translation. These apps can help bridge language gaps and facilitate communication.
If you’re staying at hotels or participating in group tours request accommodations in advance. Let them know about your hearing loss and ask for accommodations such as visual alarms, captioning services, or communication assistance devices if needed.
4. Inform Travel Companions
Make sure you inform your travel companions about your hearing loss and provide them with guidance on how to communicate effectively with you. Here are some ways they can assist you:
- Face-to-face communication: Encourage your travel companions to maintain eye contact and face you directly when speaking. This will help you better understand their words by observing facial expressions and lip movements.
- Repeat and rephrase: Ask your companions to repeat or rephrase information if you miss something. This can help you if you’ve missed some important details or instructions.
- Speak at a comfortable pace and volume: Ask your travel companions to speak at a natural pace and volume, and avoid shouting or excessive exaggeration. Clear and concise speech is generally more effective for individuals with hearing loss.
5. Pack Hearing Aid-Friendly Accessories
When preparing for your trip, don’t forget to include some accessories that can enhance your hearing aid experience and accommodate your specific hearing needs. Here are a few examples:
- Bluetooth streamers: If your hearing aids are compatible, consider bringing a Bluetooth streaming device that allows you to wirelessly connect to various audio sources, such as your smartphone, tablet, or in-flight entertainment systems.
- Neck loops or telecoils: Neck loops or telecoils can be used in conjunction with hearing aids to connect to induction loop systems commonly found in theaters, museums, or public venues. This will help you enjoy clearer sound without background noise.
Book Your Next Hearing Test
Summer vacations should be a time of relaxation, exploration, and rejuvenation. Before you head out on your next summer adventure, book a hearing test or hearing aid maintenance appointment. We can provide individualized guidance based on your specific hearing needs and help you prep your hearing aids for an enjoyable travel experience.