Posted Tuesday September 17, 2024
We've all got travel on our minds at the moment, with one of our team heading off on an extended break tripping around Europe for six weeks!
If you're travelling overseas with hearing aids soon, with a little extra preparation, you can ensure that your hearing aids work perfectly throughout your journey. Here are some handy tips to help you manage your hearing aids while exploring new destinations, so you can focus on enjoying your travels without any stress.
Heading to a tropical paradise?
Before you set off, it’s a great idea to have your ears checked, especially if swimming is on your agenda. Tropical waters can sometimes harbor bugs that might lead to infections, especially if you’re prone to earwax build-up. To ensure your trip stays trouble-free, consider scheduling a wax removal appointment before you go. That way, you can relax and enjoy your vacation without any ear troubles! You can book an earwax removal online here.
Somewhere hot and humid on your itinerary?
Humid weather can really play havoc with your aids. If you're heading somewhere steamy, picking up some drying crystals and packing a drying kit before you go could be a literal lifesaver for your aids. Audiology South have drying kits available which won't add much to your baggage weight!
Speaking of packing...
When packing for your trip, be sure to include all your hearing aid accessories and any necessary items in your carry-on. This means extra batteries (if you use), cleaning supplies, and charging units (including adaptors for the country(s) you're travelling to) should all be within easy reach. For battery aid wearers it’s also a good idea to know your hearing aid battery size and colour so you can easily purchase more if needed while you’re traveling.
Chargers are for your carry-on
If you use rechargeable hearing aids, don’t forget to pack your charger in your carry-on bag. Since most rechargeable hearing aids use Lithium-ion batteries, they need to be in your carry-on rather than your checked luggage. Make sure to check your airline’s rules on Lithium-ion devices before you travel and prioritise packing your hearing aid charger to keep your hearing aids ready for use!
Cabin pressure
The change in air pressure can sometimes make your ears feel uncomfortable or even painful. To help ease this, try chewing gum, swallowing, yawning, or gently blowing your nose with it pinched closed to balance out the pressure. Another tip is to place ear plugs in as soon as you enter the plane and leave them there until you've landed. If discomfort continues, a nasal spray like Flixonase or Otrivin or a Vicks inhaler might offer some relief. If you’ve had ear issues before, it might be helpful to visit us before your flight for some personalised tips.
Ensure they're insured
By now, you might have already included your hearing aids in your contents insurance. Before you jet off, it’s a good idea to double-check your policy to make sure your aids are covered while you’re abroad (some policies might stop covering them as soon as you board the plane!). If they’re not covered, consider adding them to your travel insurance for peace of mind.
We hope these tips help make your travels smooth and enjoyable! Bon voyage!