Traveling and flying with hearing aids

Our tips for traveling and flying with hearing aids

From packing your suitcase to walking the lively streets of distant cities, prepare for your trip with some of Bay Audiology’s tips and tricks for traveling with hearing aids and get ready to explore with ease.

Traveling with hearing aids

Exploring new places in New Zealand and visiting different parts of the world is an exciting experience. Your hearing aids are an extension of you, so don’t be afraid to take them along with you when you take off on your next adventure.

Can I fly while wearing hearing aids?

Yes, you can fly while wearing hearing aids. If you have rechargeable hearing aids, remember to pack your charger and hearing aids in your carry-on luggage. Check with your airline ahead of flying if you have Lithium-ion rechargeable hearing aids so you can pack these safely.

A group of people having breakfast outdoors

Can I go through airport security?

Yes, you can go through aiport security with your hearing aids on. It is a good idea to let security staff know you are wearing them. Depending on the type of hearing aid, you may get flagged for additional screening. If you're not wearing your hearing aids, make sure not to place them on the conveyor belt or in the plastic bins. Doing so can generate electrical charge that could damage your hearing aids.

Are hearing aid batteries allowed?

Yes, you are allowed to board the plane with your hearing aid batteries in the device. Depending on the type of battery, you may or may not be allowed to store spare batteries in your carry-on luggage. For confirmation, it is best to contact the airline you are travelling with.

Road trip while wearing hearing aids

Yes, you can go on a road trip wearing your hearing aids, just as you would drive around normally. There are some things to take into account, such as:

Only drive when you feel safe doing so. Spending a long time in the car straining to hear can increase fatigue. Be safe and share driving responsibilities with someone else when you have a hard time hearing or start to feel tired.
Use a remote microphone if you have one. Keep up with the road trip small talk by clipping your remote microphone to your travel companion’s shirt, or place it in the backseat to hear more clearly.
Cut out distracting noise. It may be fun to have a sing-a-long or listen to an interesting podcast, but it’s important to stay safe and keep distracting noise to a minimum. If you feel like your hearing is impaired by the car speakers or radio, turn it off.

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Traveling with hearing aids checklist

Check out some tips for travelling with hearing aids, what to pack and more below:

Plan in advance.

Plan all travel arrangements in advance to avoid any potential issues later.

Get your hearing aids checked. It’s very important to get your hearing aids checked out before you head off on your trip to ensure they are working properly.

Pack everything you may need.

Pack your hearing aid accessories and any necessary items in your carry-on luggage, including extra batteries, cleaning supplies and charging units for your hearing aids. Make sure you know your hearing aid battery size and colour in case you need to buy more while you are travelling.

Bring a dry aid kit.

Don’t forget to bring a dry aid kit for your hearing aids, especially if you are traveling to a waterside location or the beach. This will help keep your hearing aids clean and free from moisture.

Bring the right converter. Check you have the right converter for the country you’re visiting so you can keep your hearing aid accessories fully charged.

Check roaming restrictions or charges

Ensure you are able to send and receive text messages abroad, and set up relevant travel alerts.

Utilise maps.

Use maps on your phone to get around easier, particularly if you are visiting a country where you do not understand the language.

Ask for help when needed.

Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Talk to your guide and other professionals when you need it, that’s why they are there! If you run out of batteries you can usually purchase these anywhere in the world, just make sure you know what size batteries you usually use.

Remind staff that you’re hearing impaired.

Chat to staff at your hotel to remind them of your hearing impairment. You can also put up the do not disturb sign on the door to avoid any unwanted walk-ins.

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