Travel Tips for People with Hearing Loss

Whether traveling for business or leisure, some preparation can help you manage your journey if you have hearing loss. With a bit of planning, you can adapt to different modes of travel and get the most out of your experience. Discover new places and enjoy traveling with our travel tips for people with hearing loss.

Get Your Hearing Aids Checked

Before you travel, you should visit a hearing health professional to get your hearing aids checked. They should be able to tell you if your hearing aids are working correctly or if you need any adjustments. Inform them what locations you are visiting so they can make the correct accommodations, like if you are visiting high altitudes or areas with a higher moisture level.

Check Your Hotel and Travel Arrangements

Before you book your hotel or plan your travel, check if they have accommodation for people with hearing loss. Some hotels have adjustments like flashing lights for the door, fire alarm or phone. You could even check with a travel agent if you’re looking to book a package deal. If you are traveling in the US, hotels are legally obliged to adapt some rooms for those with hearing loss.

Buy an ADA-Compliant Hearing Kit

If you want to travel to a hotel or location that doesn’t have provisions for people with hearing loss, you could buy an ADA-compliant hearing kit online. These include a sound monitor to help you monitor fire or burglar alarms. They also have a telephone amplifier and a ‘bed shaker’, which can operate as an alarm clock.

Pack Items to Help Manage Hearing Loss

As well as a hearing kit, if you have a hearing aid, you could also consider packing some provisions in case of hearing aid repair. These might include a hearing aid desiccant, a hearing aid dehumidifier, spare batteries, waterproof protectors and a carry case. Ask your hearing health professional if there’s anything else you should consider for travel.

Adapting To Different Modes of Transport

Depending on how you are getting to your destination, you can make several adaptations to enjoy your journey better:

• By car: If you are driving, consider investing in a broader mirror and installing an induction loop if traveling with passengers. If you are a passenger, consider investing in a listening device that can help you listen to conversations.
• By public transport: Check ahead to see if public transport has induction loops or any provision for those with hearing loss.
• By plane: Wear hearing aids during the flight, and keep your travel documents in an easy-to-reach place. Call ahead to let the airline know of your hearing loss if you think you might need additional assistance.

Traveling with hearing loss is manageable with some planning. Don’t be afraid to call ahead and ask what hotels, tour operators or transport companies can do to accommodate your hearing loss. Be prepared with your hearing kit, and keep travel documents in accessible locations. Visit your hearing health professional to ensure your hearing aids are ready for travel to enjoy a stress-free trip.