Traveling can be stressful, especially when you add in having to navigate an airport. If you are one of the more than 48 million people in the U.S. with hearing loss, the thought of trying to fly with your hearing aids may seem like too much. The audiologists from Total Hearing Care of Dallas have you covered. Below are some tips and tricks to help you fly with hearing aids.
Planning Is Key
Proper planning is essential for a smooth travel experience. Nothing ruins a vacation faster than having to figure out a plan B because your hearing aid is not working or because you can’t find a crucial accessory to pair with your device.
Because luggage can get lost, we recommend always packing your hearing aids and hearing aid accessories in your carry-on bag. Better yet, put them in your personal item such as backpack or purse.
Here is a list of everything hearing-related you need to pack for your next vacation:
- Extra batteries
- Charger
- Converter
- Dehumidifier
- Cleaning kit
- Accessories
- Hearing protection
While your hearing aids are crucial, sometimes the best form of communication is written. Set up as many text or email alerts as you can, so you don’t need to rely on understanding hard-to-hear overhead announcements. You wouldn’t want a last-minute gate change to ruin your travel plans.
Communicating at the Airport and on the Airplane
There is no getting around that airports are loud and bustling places full of people running around. We recommend giving yourself plenty of time to navigate the airport to prevent frustration.
While you do not need to remove your hearing aids when going through security, it is important to let the TSA agent know you are wearing them. This gives them the opportunity to provide you with any accommodations that are available for those with hearing loss.
Once you are on the airplane, alert the flight crew of your hearing loss and request that they reiterate any important announcements from the captain to you in person. While some choose to wear their hearing aids on board, the change in pressure can be painful. If you do remove your hearing aids, make sure to keep them close by, and never put them in the seatback pocket, as you will forget them.
To learn more about enjoying your vacation with hearing loss, contact the experts at Total Hearing Care of Dallas.
