The end of the year is always a good time for a ‘change of scenery’. Whether you’re travelling overseas, interstate, or just staying with family or friends, when you’re travelling with hearing aids, it’s good to plan ahead.
Here are some tips for making sure you don’t miss a thing on your next holiday:
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Make a check-list
There are a million things to think about when you’re packing for holidays. Make sure you include these essential items:
- Spare hearing aid batteries or a device charger (don’t forget to pack an adaptor suitable to the country you’re travelling to).
- Cleaning equipment for your devices and accessories.
- A dehumidifier for keeping your hearing aids dry. This is especially important if you’re travelling to humid climates or places where you expect rain or snow.
- Extra tubing and other accessories you’ll need in case of emergencies.
- A spare pair of hearing aids if you have them
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Insurance – are you covered?
Hearing aids can be expensive to replace or repair – not to mention, the inconvenience if something happens to them. When you’re travelling with hearing aids, it’s a good idea to check with your insurer that you’re covered for loss and damage to your devices.
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Travelling by plane?
- Keep all your essential hearing equipment in your hand-luggage.
- There’s no need to remove your hearing aids before you go through airport security scanners, but it’s worth mentioning it to the security staff to avoid any issues.
- You may hear a buzzing sound when you go through the scanner. To avoid this, turn off the telecoil on your devices.
- Once on the plane, you can wear your hearing aids as normal. However, sometimes people find that the cabin is too noisy, so removing their hearing aids can provide a bit of peace.
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Travelling in a group?
If you’re travelling in a tour group, let your tour guide know that you’re a little hard of hearing. That way they know to take care that you don’t miss any important announcements or instructions. Sitting or standing near the front of the group when on tour or at a show will also ensure you don’t miss out.
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Before you go, check-in with your hearing care provider
It’s a good idea to book an appointment with your hearing clinician well before you head off. They can make sure you’ll be hearing at your best by checking the settings on your hearing aids and giving them a thorough clean. You can also stock up on batteries while you’re there.
When you’re travelling with hearing aids, it’s also worth checking out if there is a local hearing clinic at your destination, just in case.
Have a great trip!
If you have any questions, please give us a call on 1300 970 558 to make an appointment or book here.