Traveling? 8 Tips for Better Hearing on the Go

Heading off on a trip? Your trusty hearing devices are ready to make it even more awesome! Whether you’re exploring new cities or taking solace in nature, these little helpers are there to keep you connected to all the new sounds around you.

Picture this: bustling markets, serene parks, and maybe a mix of languages — your hearing aids are like magic translators for all those sounds. That’s why giving them a little extra love during your travels is a great idea. Whether it’s the hustle and bustle of a lively street or the peaceful rustle of leaves, your devices help you soak it all in. Imagine strolling through a new place, hearing the laughter, the music, and the local chatter. THIS is why we travel.

So, next time you pack your bags, don’t forget your hearing aids. They’re not just accessories; they’re your partners in making your travel stories even more amazing. Hearing devices help you communicate your best no matter where you are, so it’s especially important to lean into them when traveling.

Ready to turn up the volume on your adventures? Make those unforgettable on-the-go moments even more special with these helpful reminders.

1. Get to Know Your Hearing Devices

Understanding the full range of features in your hearing aids is very handy for optimizing your travel experience. Features like streaming, geotagging, and smartphone control can enhance your ability to communicate effectively on the road. Take the time to explore these functionalities, ensuring that you are fully acquainted with your hearing technology before embarking on your journey.

Many folks put the instructions for their hearing devices into the empty box and away on a back shelf when they first bring them home, and never look at them again. Familiarizing yourself with the user manual can provide valuable insights into lesser-known features, empowering you to make the most of your hearing aids in various travel scenarios.

2. Pack Extra Batteries

To prevent any interruptions in your hearing aid usage during travel, it’s wise to pack extra batteries. Removing batteries when the devices are not in use is a good practice as well. If you have rechargeable hearing aids, having a spare charger specifically designated for travel ensures that you stay powered throughout your trip.

Additionally, check the expiration dates on your spare batteries and replace them if needed to guarantee optimal performance during your travels.

3. Remember Your Storage Container

Just like at home, your hearing devices need proper storage when not in use. Proper storage for your hearing devices is essential, even when traveling. A designated container protects your devices from misplacement, damage, moisture, and potential interference from small pets or children. Consider using dehumidifiers designed for hearing aids, as they not only sanitize but serve as convenient travel storage.

When packing, place the storage container in an easily accessible pocket or compartment to ensure quick and convenient retrieval when needed.

4. Change the Wax Guard

Your hearing device’s earwax guard serves as an important protection against a damaging buildup of earwax, skin particles, and other debris. Regular maintenance is key to optimal hearing aid performance. Ensure that you change the wax guard before your journey, especially if it’s been close to a month since the last replacement.

Packing a few extra wax guards ensures that you can address this simple yet crucial task while on the go. Additionally, familiarize yourself with the replacement process, and practice changing the wax guard at home to streamline the procedure during your travels.

5. Include a Quick-Cleaning Kit

Dust and dirt can make their way into your hearing devices and can impact the functionality of your hearing devices. A small cleaning kit equipped with a soft, dry cloth, a soft-bristle brush for microphone and battery contacts, and a wax pick for earmold maintenance can help you keep your devices in top condition during your travels. Wipe the earmold — if it’s part of your device — with a soft, dry cloth; carefully brush over the microphone and battery contacts with a soft-bristle brush; and use a wax pick to remove earwax from the earmold.

Consider including a travel-sized, airtight container for the cleaning kit to prevent contamination and ensure its effectiveness throughout your journey.

6. Add Your Bluetooth Gear

Enhance your communication and overall fun by incorporating Bluetooth-enabled accessories into your travel checklist. Whether it’s table microphones, phone clips, or TV streamers, these accessories can seamlessly integrate with your hearing devices and contribute to a more immersive travel experience.

Before your trip, ensure that your Bluetooth accessories are paired, charged, and functioning correctly, and, as noted above, familiarize yourself with any additional features they may offer to optimize their usage while on the go. Make sure they’re part of your checklist!

7. Get Yourself in the Loop

Some museums, theaters, houses of worship, and other spaces have installed hearing loops, letting visitors enjoy enhanced audio by wirelessly connecting through the T-coil setting on their hearing aids. Look for the hearing loop logo or inquire at information desks to identify participating venues.

Additionally, consider testing the compatibility of your hearing aids with hearing loops in advance to troubleshoot any potential issues and ensure a seamless experience during your visit.

8. Protect Your Hearing

A new environment can mean new or unexpected sounds — some of which may hit the danger zone of 85 decibels or higher. Unfamiliar places and situations may expose you to sounds that could be harmful. Consider bringing quality hearing protection to soften loud sounds. From earplugs to custom hearing protection, many options are available to give your hearing the protection it deserves.

Avoiding excess noise when possible and investing in quality hearing protection can help guard your hearing health while on the go. Familiarizing yourself with local noise regulations at your destination is also never a bad idea. Make sure to be proactive in using hearing protection in situations where noise levels may pose a risk to your auditory well-being. Additionally, earplugs also come in handy when your cabin-mate snores or the airplane is too loud for sleep.

Taking to the Skies?

As of this writing, it’s A-OK to bring your hearing devices through airport screening and wear them during your flight. It’s always good to check with relevant authorities in advance, however, if you’re flying outside of the U.S. or Canada.

Planning ahead for your hearing needs means your next vacation will be smooth sailing! At your next hearing check or device cleaning appointment, ask your hearing expert for any traveling tips specific to your needs!