Traveling with your child’s hearing devices can feel overwhelming at first, but with a little preparation, it can be smooth and stress-free. The tips below will help you feel confident and ready before you head out.
Preparation is key
Before your trip, consider packing the following items in a carry-on bag:
- All device components (hearing aids or cochlear implant processors)
- Accessories such as chargers, charging cords and remote microphones
- Extra disposable batteries, if applicable
- A hard case and/or travel dry aid case
👉 Important tip: Always keep hearing devices and accessories with you. Avoid placing them in checked luggage, as bags can be lost and equipment may be damaged by handling or x-ray exposure.
Going through airport security
- Your child is allowed to keep their hearing devices on while going through security.
- Let the TSA agent know that your child wears hearing devices.
- In some cases, your child may be screened with a handheld security wand instead of going through the full-body scanner.
Cochlear implant–specific tips
If your child uses a cochlear implant, keep these additional tips in mind:
- Make sure backup processors are programmed and up to date with your audiologist before traveling. Bring them along with any extra cables or accessories needed to stay “on air.”
- Do not place cochlear implant processors on the x-ray conveyor belt, as this may damage the external processor or cause static electricity buildup.
- Place extra equipment in a TSA bin and hand it directly to an agent for manual inspection instead of sending it through the scanner.
- Bring your child’s cochlear implant ID card in case additional information is requested.
Technology tip
Are your child’s devices Bluetooth-compatible? If you plan to use a tablet or phone for entertainment during travel, consider pairing the devices ahead of time. Not sure how or unsure if your child’s devices are compatible? Your audiologist is always a great resource.
With a little planning, traveling with hearing devices can be just another part of your family adventure. Safe travels! ✈️
Johanna Lowell is a pediatric audiologist at CID – Central Institute for the Deaf. Ms. Lowell joined the CID Audiology team in 2020 shortly after graduating with her doctoral degree from Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis. Prior to graduating, she also completed her year-long externship and final year of her doctorate at CID. She currently serves children between birth through 18.
