Traveling with a hearing aid means you need to make some extra preparations. These tips will help ensure that you are prepared for whatever surprises travel throws your way.

When flying, keep your necessities in your carry-on bag

The last thing you want is for your vital accessories to be tucked away deep within a checked suitcase when the airline declares that your luggage may not make your tight connection. Make sure you keep anything you might need in the short term—including batteries, chargers, and cleaning accessories—safe in a carry-on bag.

Charge your hearing aids before you depart

Speaking of batteries, this is a good time to remind you to charge your batteries before you begin your travels. When you get into a routine and charge your devices at the same time every day, it can be difficult to remember that you may need to change up your schedule to accommodate your travel, so set a reminder if possible. This is an important step to take even if you don’t expect your trip to last long because unforeseen delays are always possible.

Wear your hearing device during travel

Some people are tempted to pack their hearing aids for the trip, mostly because they are afraid that the noisy environments involved in travel situations like airports and planes will cause problems. However, without your hearing aid in place, you might not be able to hear important announcements or travel updates, so it’s advised that you wear your device. As an added bonus, if you train yourself to put your hearing aid in before leaving you’ll be less likely to forget it in the first place.

Keep your hearing aid on when proceeding through security

Keep in mind that you most likely won’t have to take your hearing aid out when moving through a metal detector or body scanner, but you may want to turn down the volume on your device because some scanners may cause a loud sound when you go through. You may choose to inform the security staff that you are wearing a hearing aid beforehand, but it is not required. Separate remote controls and accessories must be sent through the x-ray with your electronics.

Alert crew members to your situation

It may be beneficial to let the flight attendants know that you are wearing a hearing aid, even if nothing comes of it. If don’t feel that you can perform the duties required when seated in an exit row you should ask for a seat reassignment. In the event of an emergency, ask for help if instructions aren’t clear.

You deserve a hearing device that is customized to fit your needs, so you can live your life to the fullest whether you’re traveling the world or spending time with your loved ones at home. Schedule an appointment at your nearest hearing center today.