Summer vacation is just around the corner, and you might be planning an exciting trip to take. At South Valley Ear Nose & Throat – West Jordan, we talk a lot about the benefits of hearing aids and how they keep you connected to the world around you, and nowhere is that more true than while traveling. Chatting with locals and listening to the ambient sounds of your destination would be impossible without your hearing devices.
So, if you’re planning an exciting vacation, make sure you take your hearing aids. Here’s our expert guide on traveling with hearing aids.
Pack Smart
Bring everything you need for your hearing aids, and bring extras: batteries, ear molds, domes, wax guards, chargers, accessories, cleaning kit, etc. And when you pack these items, put them in your carry-on bag so you always have them accessible, both on the plane and in the airport during layovers.
Don’t Take Your Hearing Aids Out
Removing your hearing aids, especially in busy public areas such as the airport, increases the risk of misplacing or damaging them. Also, you should know that when the flight staff asks everyone to turn off their electronic devices on the flight, that directive does not apply to hearing aids; keep them on and in your ears.
This goes for when you’re at your destination, as well. Keep your hearing aids in as you explore, as they’ll make it easier to engage with the world around you and take in all the sights (and sounds!).
Consider the Climate
Traveling will take you to places with climates and conditions different from what you’re used to. Pay attention to how this might impact your hearing aid performance and what you can do about it.
- Heat. High temperatures can damage the delicate internal components of your devices, warp plastic parts and cause battery leakage. Avoid exposing your hearing aids to extreme heat by wearing a hat or other covering in hot weather, and never leave them in a place where they could overheat, such as directly in the sun on the beach or in a hot car.
- Cold. Is a mountain retreat more your speed? Cold temperatures bring their own hazards. Just like in any other electronic device, batteries drain faster in cold temperatures, so bring extra batteries and avoid using any battery-draining features.
- Moisture. You probably know not to expose your hearing aids to water. Watch out for humidity in hot weather, condensation in cold weather and water exposure if you’re traveling somewhere like the beach or a lake. Use a dehumidifier every night to remove any water that may have accumulated in your hearing aids during the day.
- Altitude. Some people find that their hearing thresholds change with altitude, so you may need to adjust your volume and pitch settings in your new location.
Have Your Hearing Care Team Ready
Before you leave for your trip, you should schedule a hearing aid checkup with South Valley Ear Nose & Throat – West Jordan to make sure your devices are ready to go. We can give them a thorough cleaning and check for any small repairs that can get your hearing aids to optimal performance for your vacation. Think of it like changing your car’s oil before a long road trip!
Also, make sure you have a contingency plan in case you need hearing aid care while you’re on your trip. Research local hearing care providers and check if your hearing aid manufacturer has a service location at your destination.
If you have any more questions or concerns about traveling safely with hearing aids, talk to us at South Valley Ear Nose & Throat – West Jordan. We want your trip to be successful, and we want you to enjoy everything your destination has to offer, which means hearing your best.