Air travel is stressful—as much as 40% of the American population reports being afraid of flying—and that stress is 
compounded if you’re one of the millions of Americans who use hearing aids. Navigating airports requires extra consideration and preparation for those with hearing aids. We’ve put together some valuable tips for the next time you travel.
Packing List
Here’s a starting list of essentials. We recommend keeping all this equipment in your carry-on bag in case of unexpected delays or long layovers. You want to keep your charger, batteries and any other accessories close to you.
- Extra batteries. You’ll probably wear your hearing aids for longer periods of time than you usually would, so you’ll go through them quicker. Bring extras, and bring more than you think you need!
- Charging station and cable. If you use rechargeable hearing aids, don’t forget your charging station.
- Cleaning kit. It’s important to stick to your usual hearing aid cleaning routine, even while travelling.
- Extra domes and wax guards. Bringing extras allows you to fix any problems should the need arise.
- If there are any hearing aid accessories you use regularly, bring them along too.
Getting Through the Airport
Airports are noisy. Crowds are talking around you, and pre-flight boarding announcements are loud. Keep these tips in mind as you navigate to your gate, based on TSA recommendations:
- Self-identify. You may struggle with hearing instructions in the loud airport environment. Identify yourself as a hearing aid user at every point in the travel process, and don’t be afraid to ask for a repeat or clarification. Use a communication strategy that works for you.
- Leave your hearing aids in when you go through security. TSA states: “you are not required to remove any hearing aids or cochlear implants.” They will not set off the detector. However, if you are concerned about it, you may request a pat-down instead of going through the metal detector.
- X-rays will not harm your hearing aid components. In the event you’re asked to put your hearing aids through the X-ray scanner, you don’t need to worry about the X-rays damaging anything.
The general rule of thumb is to not remove your hearing aids. You don’t want to risk losing them, and you need to be able to hear all announcements for safety and information.
Have a Great Trip!
Hearing aids present new challenges at the airport, but travelling is not impossible. Get the most out of your trip by taking care of your hearing aids. It’s also a good idea to check in with your hearing healthcare professional before your trip to ensure everything is working and fitted properly. You want to start your trip confident that your hearing aids are in good shape. Call PDX ENT to schedule an appointment.
