Expert Traveler’s Tips for Flying with Hearing Aids

How to Ensure a Smooth and Enjoyable Flight with Your Hearing Aids 

Traveling with hearing aids can be an enriching experience, allowing you to explore new destinations and languages confidently. Hearing aids should never hold you back from new experiences. Whether immersing yourself in the busy streets of a foreign city or exploring nature, your hearing aids are designed to enhance your enjoyment of the world around you. It is essential to know how to make the most of your travels with hearing aids, ensuring an enjoyable journey wherever you go.  

Schedule An Appointment With Your Audiologist  

Preparing your hearing aids for travel 

The first step is making an appointment with your audiologist to have an updated hearing test and have your hearing aids checked and fine-tuned. This will give you ease of mind that your hearing aids are working correctly and have the most up-to-date programming to help you hear well. You can also speak with your audiologist about adding a telecoil program. Many airports have hearing loop technology, allowing you to connect directly to the public address system if your hearing aids are equipped with a telecoil program. Check if the airports you’ll be visiting have this technology available.  

Packing Essentials for Your Hearing Aids

Essential items to pack for a trouble-free journey 

When preparing for your trip, be sure to include your cleaning supplies, batteries if needed, your hearing aid charger, and backup hearing aids if available.

Most chargers are compact and lightweight, easily slipping into your carry-on. Consider bringing a travel adapter if you’re visiting a country with different electrical outlets. This ensures you can recharge your hearing aids no matter where you are.

Maximizing Battery Life During Travel 

Prolonging your hearing aid battery life 

While rechargeable hearing aids offer convenience, it’s still essential to maximize battery life, especially when traveling. To prolong the lifespan of your batteries, avoid heavy streaming of your iPhone, Android, or iPad. When not in use, turn your hearing aids off and store your hearing aids in a protective case to prevent damage. Although some manufacturers have chargers that can charge the hearing aids for up to three days wirelessly, consider carrying a portable charger for extra peace of mind, particularly during long flights or outdoor excursions where access to electrical outlets may be limited.

Planning For Hearing Aid Maintenance 

Being prepared for unexpected issues

Before embarking on your journey, research hearing aid maintenance services available at your destination. While hearing aids are designed to be durable, unexpected issues can arise. Knowing where to find assistance in emergencies can save you time and stress during your travels. Many manufacturers offer worldwide support networks, allowing you to access repairs or replacements wherever you go.

Embracing Flying with Hearing Aids

Flying comfortably with your hearing aids 

Remember not to stress about wearing your hearing aids; you do not have to remove them at any point. Removing your hearing aids is not necessary when going through airport security. However, TSA officers reserve the right to perform additional screening if the device triggers an alert. Even on the plane, your hearing aids can remain in your ears. Some hearing aids allow you to turn them into Flight Mode to turn off wireless features. Feel free to inform staff of your hearing loss so they can provide you with the best audibility options.

Traveling with hearing aids opens up possibilities for individuals with hearing loss. By embracing convenience, packing essentials, maximizing battery life, planning, and embracing new experiences, you can enjoy seamless and fulfilling travels wherever your adventures take you. Visit our audiology office in Sacramento for questions about your hearing aids before you travel. The world is yours to explore and hear with confidence and clarity!