Whether you’re planning a relaxing getaway, visiting family, or traveling for business, your hearing aids can be one of your most valuable travel companions.
With the right preparation, you can enjoy your journey with confidence while staying connected to the people, places, and experiences around you.
Here are 10 helpful dos and don’ts for traveling with hearing aids.
1. Don’t Leave Your Hearing Aids at Home
Your best hearing should travel with you.
Wearing your hearing aids throughout your trip can make transportation easier and safer by helping you hear important information like:
- Airport announcements
- Traffic sounds
- Conversations with travel companions
- Directions and instructions
Once you arrive, better hearing allows you to fully experience your destination—from the sound of ocean waves and local music to conversations with new people and the unique sounds of another culture.
Many modern hearing aids also offer advanced connectivity features. For example, some devices paired with a smartphone app can even assist with language translation, allowing translated conversations to stream directly through your hearing aids.
2. Do Keep Extra Power Available
A dead battery can quickly interrupt your travel plans.
If your hearing aids use disposable batteries, pack extras in your carry-on bag. If you use rechargeable hearing aids, remember to bring your charger and any necessary adapters.
Signs your batteries may need replacing include:
- Distorted sound
- Reduced volume
- Frequent adjustments to increase volume
Keeping your devices powered means you won’t miss important moments along the way.
3. Don’t Forget Your Accessories
Hearing aid accessories can make travel even easier.
Consider bringing helpful tools such as:
- Remote microphones for clearer conversations in busy restaurants or group settings
- TV streamers for comfortable listening at your hotel or vacation rental
- Charging accessories for rechargeable devices
If you’re traveling internationally, remember to pack any necessary electrical adapters.
4. Do Wear Your Hearing Aids in the Airport
Airports can be busy, noisy environments, making hearing aids especially helpful.
Your devices can help you stay aware of:
- Boarding announcements
- Gate changes
- Travel updates
- Conversations with airline staff
If your hearing aids include telecoil technology, you may also be able to connect to hearing loop systems in some public locations.
Newer hearing technology is also moving toward expanded Bluetooth® connectivity, including access to future Auracast™ broadcasts in public spaces.
5. Don’t Pack Hearing Aid Supplies in Checked Luggage
Keep your hearing aid essentials with you in your carry-on bag.
This includes:
- Spare batteries
- Chargers
- Accessories
- Cleaning supplies
Keeping these items nearby ensures you have what you need if your checked luggage is delayed or misplaced.
6. Do Let Flight Attendants Know About Your Hearing Loss
Airplanes can be challenging listening environments—even for people with normal hearing.
Letting flight attendants know about your hearing loss allows them to provide additional support when needed, including important information about:
- Safety instructions
- Flight updates
- Food and beverage service
A simple conversation at the beginning of your flight can make your experience much smoother.
7. Don’t Turn Off Your Hearing Aids During Your Flight
When airline staff ask passengers to turn off electronic devices during takeoff and landing, this does not apply to hearing aids.
Hearing aids are designed to safely operate during flights and can help you:
- Communicate with flight staff
- Talk with travel companions
- Hear announcements
Keeping them on can make your trip more comfortable and connected.
8. Do Bring a Drying Kit
Heat, humidity, sweat, and temperature changes can affect hearing aid performance.
A drying kit or dehumidifier can help protect your devices from moisture buildup, especially if you’re traveling somewhere:
- Tropical
- Hot and humid
- Near water
Your hearing care professional can recommend the best option for your hearing aids.
9. Don’t Forget Cleaning Supplies
Daily cleaning helps your hearing aids perform their best throughout your trip.
Pack items such as:
- A hearing aid cleaning brush
- A soft, dry cloth
- Wax guards (if needed)
- Replacement parts recommended by your hearing care professional
A few minutes of maintenance each day can help prevent problems while traveling.
10. Do Create a Hearing Aid Station When You Arrive
Once you reach your destination, choose a consistent place to store your hearing aids and accessories.
A nightstand or dresser works well and helps prevent:
- Misplacing your devices
- Forgetting your charger
- Searching for supplies when you’re in a hurry
For battery-operated hearing aids, store them in their case with the battery doors open when not in use.
For rechargeable hearing aids, keep them in their charger so they are ready for your next adventure.
Travel With Confidence
A little preparation can go a long way when traveling with hearing aids.
If you have questions about caring for your devices while traveling, need accessory recommendations, or want to explore the latest hearing technology, our hearing care team is here to help.
Schedule an appointment today and make sure your hearing is ready for your next journey.