For most people, travel is a fun, exciting way to relax and see new places. For people who use hearing aids, however, traveling can be a little bit more complicated.
Traveling for the Hearing Impaired
Unanticipated difficulties can include problems hearing announcements, like airline in-flight and boarding calls and trouble hearing unfamiliar warnings like smoke alarms, knocks at the door, or hotel room telephones.
Other inconveniences such as lack of accommodation for hearing dogs and lack of oral or sign language interpreters can arise when in an unfamiliar setting, which can also make travel less fun.
Travel Planning for the Hearing Impaired
With a little bit of planning, most of these difficulties can be avoided and travel can again be fun and exciting.
A few tips to make your travel experience as enjoyable as possible:
l When arranging travel with a travel agent, try to meet in person if possible to ensure adequate communication and thorough planning of all aspects of the trip. Ask the agent to help you contact hotels, airlines and attractions to make reservations and any special accommodations.
l The more travel arrangements that are made in advance, the better. When confirming your travel plans, always get a written confirmation to make sure everything is correct, and let each stop know that you are hearing impaired so accommodations will be made before you arrive.
l The internet gives us access to many of the resources we need: print out any maps, itineraries, reservations, confirmation numbers and other information that will ensure your trip goes smoothly.
l Arrive early to the airport, train station or bus terminal and let the agent know you are hearing impaired so they can make sure you hear all relevant announcements and boarding calls.
l Confirm your flight number and destination before boarding, and pay attention to the display board to make sure you don’t miss any changes in information.
l Consider aisle seats when boarding an airplane to more easily communicate with flight staff, and let them know you are hearing impaired so they can personally relay important announcements.
l Talk to other travelers–most people are happy to help when asked, and you may make a new friend!
Traveling with Hearing Aids
If you wear hearing aids, a little extra planning will ensure you don’t run into problems during your trip.
l If you have a dehumidifier, consider bringing it along to prevent any issues with moisture that you may not have anticipated.
l Carry your hearing aid equipment with you while traveling. If your luggage is lost for a couple of days you will be glad you took the effort to make sure it was with you!
l Always pack extra batteries and tubing for your hearing aids, just in case you need them and can’t find them locally where you are going.
With a little planning and forethought, you will have smooth travel and a great time on your next vacation!
Los Gatos Audiology is here to help you protect your hearing health. Call today and come in for your yearly hearing exam so you can stay ahead of the curve and protect your hearing, your brain and your health.
We’ve served San Jose and the Bay Area for over 40 years, providing the right solution for Your Life. Your Style.
Join us on Friday, June 22, from 10-12pm in our office at Los Gatos Audiology with The Listen Up Café!
Christine Throm, Au.D. is proud to host an informal, fun session about traveling with hearing devices this season.
We’ll be serving coffee, tea and other special goodies as well!
Come by Our New Los Gatos Location!
Los Gatos Audiology
15899 Los Gatos-Almaden Rd. Suite 8, Los Gatos, CA 95032 www.losgatosaudiology.com