Traveling with Hearing Aids

Summer, Sun, Travel Season: Tips for Hearing Aid Users

Summer is, above all, one thing: travel season. With our tips for hearing aid users, nothing stands in the way of a relaxing getaway. Learn more here.

In many German states, summer vacation is already in full swing; in others, it’s just around the corner. Millions of Germans take advantage of the best time of the year to spend a relaxing vacation somewhere in the world. Among them are many hearing aid users. When you go on a trip, keep these small details in mind, and you’re guaranteed to enjoy a relaxing vacation.

1. Have your hearing aids checked by your hearing care professional before you leave.At your vacation destination, there may not always be an expert available to take care of your hearing aids. So it’s best to have your devices checked in advance by the hearing care professional you trust. They can also give you helpful tips on how to use your hearing aids while on vacation.
2. Bring plenty of batteriesand an adapter if you use a charger.This way, you’ll be on the safe side—you won’t run out of power in the middle of your vacation, and you can rely on the best sound quality even while you’re away.
3. If you’re flying, remove your hearing aids during takeoff and landing.If you have trouble equalizing pressure during takeoff and landing on a flight, simply remove your hearing aids. There’s even special ear protection that makes flying much more comfortable—even for people who don’t wear hearing aids. In some cases, however, your hearing aid may be able to handle the pressure equalization on its own. Your hearing care professional can tell you everything you need to know about this.
4. Pack cleaning supplies and a soft cleaning cloth so you can clean your hearing aids regularly.Since hearing aids are essentially small, high-performance mini-computers, they require special care. Regular cleaning is especially important on vacation, when you’re exposed to sun, sweat, sand, and various lotions.
5. Applying sunscreen? Yes—but put your hearing aids in afterward.Make sure your hearing aids don’t come into contact with sunscreen or other lotions. These can clog the devices. So it’s best to apply sunscreen first, then put in your hearing aids.
6. Time to hit the water—but leave your hearing aids behind.Many hearing aids are splash-proof, but not waterproof. That’s why you should take your hearing aids out of your ears before going into the water. If your hearing aids do get wet, it’s recommended that you clean them with a cleaning cloth and care solution. At night, you should place your hearing aids in a drying case, remove the batteries, and leave the battery compartment open so moisture can escape. Many manufacturers now also offer waterproof hearing aids. You can, of course, leave these in while bathing.
7. Protect your hearing aids from sand and heat.You should also always protect your hearing aids from sand or other dust. When you’re not wearing your hearing aids, it’s best to store them in a suitable case and place them in a shaded spot, as excessive heat can damage them.

And last but not least: Don’t leave your hearing aids lying around, as they’re highly sought after by thieves. With that in mind: Have a great trip!

You can also find more useful travel tips in the article "Off on Vacation."