Summer travel is a great and see new places and take a break from work or everyday life. Traveling may seem a bit more complicated if you have hearing loss, however, so here are some tips to make traveling the relaxing venture it was meant to be.
Hearing Loss and Traveling
When you have hearing loss, problems can arise while traveling. When you are in an unfamiliar environment, you may not recognize sounds such as warnings like smoke alarms, you may miss announcements at the airport or other locations, or hotel room telephones.
You may not have access to other usual conveniences such as accommodation for hearing dogs or sign language interpreters.
Planning Your Travel
Many of these issues can be sidestepped with proper planning, and you can relax and enjoy your vacation.
Here are some tips to simplify your travel:
- If you are arranging your travel with a travel agent, see if it’s possible to plan your your trip in person to guarantee thorough communication and adequate planning for your whole trip. Most agents will be happy to contact airlines, hotels and other destinations to make reservations and accommodations.
- Try to make as many travel arrangements in advance as possible and be sure to get a hard copy of the confirmation so you can check that everything is accurate. Also let someone at each destination know that you have a hearing issue, so they can make accommodations before your arrival.
- We can access most of the resources we need on the internet: maps, confirmation numbers, reservations, and itineraries as well as other information to make sure your trip goes according to plan.
- Always arrive early to the train station, airport, or bus terminal. Let a representative know you about your limitations so they can alert you to boarding calls and other relevant announcement.
- Before boarding, always confirm your destination and flight number. Pay attention to the display board so you don’t miss changes in status or other information.
- On airplanes, aisle seats may help you to more easily communicate with flight staff. Let them know you are hearing impaired when you board so they can communicate important messages.
- Your fellow travelers can also be very helpful—all you have to do is ask– you may even make a new friend!
Traveling with Hearing Aids
If you use a hearing device, a little extra preparation will go a long way to make sure you don’t have unexpected issues during your travels.
- You may want to bring a dehumidifier if you have one to prevent unanticipated moisture in other cliamtes.
- While en route, try to carry your hearing aid equipment so you aren’t stuck without it if your luggage is lost temporarily.
- Having extra tubing and batteries for your hearing aids can be a lifesaver if you need them and don’t have a place to buy them at your destination.
With foresight and preparation, you can have a great vacation!
Here at California Hearing Center we are committed to your hearing health. Call us today to set up an appointment for a hearing screening.