Packing for vacation is an exciting but also stressful time. This is especially true for the 15% of American adults who have trouble hearing and may need to do a little extra preparation for their vacation. Below we review some vacation packing tips for people with hearing loss.
Make a List
In the days and weeks leading up to your departure, make a list of all the things you’ll need to pack so that you can communicate well while on your vacation. If you’re thoughtful about your list, you won’t be trying to think of everything you’ll need at the last minute. This also reduces the chances you’ll forget something important.
Bring the Essentials
Some of the items you should include on your list and ensure you pack when the time comes are your hearing aids, spare batteries or charger, cleaning kit, dehumidifier, other assistive listening devices and an outlet converter if you’re traveling abroad. You may also want to bring a tablet if you use one to boost communication.
Pack Them Safely
Ideally, you should wear your hearing aids during your travel, especially if you’re flying out of Austin-Bergstrom International Airport. When you’re not wearing them, however, you should put them in their carrying case. When it comes to your other listening devices and anything else that’s breakable, you can roll them in a sweater to protect them.
Put Important Things in Your Carry-On
Unfortunately, checked luggage gets lost all the time. The last thing you want is to be stranded in an unfamiliar place, unable to hear. Pack your hearing aid essentials in your carry-on so they’re always with you. This way, you’ll also be able to access them whenever you need them.
Be Mindful of Moisture
Don’t put your hearing aids or accessories in the same bag as a water bottle or other source of moisture because if there’s a leak, they could become damaged.
In addition, if you’re traveling somewhere humid, it’s especially important to invest in a dehumidifier for your hearing aids.
For more information about traveling with hearing loss or to schedule an appointment with a hearing expert, call Austin Auditory Specialists today.