Traveling with hearing aids: Bluetooth, TSA tips and more

Last update on Jan, 29, 2026

Explore TSA-friendly tips, extended Bluetooth® connectivity, and water-resistant hearing aids. Pack smart with cleaning kits and protective cases for worry-free travel.

Dr. Tom Tedeschi

Reviewed by

Dr. Thomas Tedeschi, Au.D.

Chief Audiology Officer, Miracle-Ear

Key Takeaways

  • Hearing aids can be worn through airport security and don't set off metal detectors.
  • Modern features, such as Auracast technology, connect directly to airport announcements.
  • Water-resistant hearing aids protect against sweat, rain, and humidity.
  • Rechargeable hearing aid batteries offer up to 51 hours of power on a single charge in select models.
  • Essential packing items include protective cases, spare hearing aid batteries or a charging case, hearing aid cleaning kits, and drying equipment.
  • Learn how to clean hearing aids properly so they function while traveling.

As we age, many people travel a bit more—whether you’re a snowbird heading south for the winter, completing a bucket-list trip, or just enjoying more free time.

However, growing older may also have brought the need for more accommodation, such as managing hearing loss or using mobility aids—but that doesn’t mean you can’t take the trip you’ve always talked about. The good news about modern hearing aids is that they’re designed to complement your lifestyle, not hinder it.

If you’re nervous about getting your hearing aids through airport security, navigating noisy tourist spots, or protecting them from the chaos of travel, we’re here to remind you that modern technology makes all of that easier than ever.

Flying with hearing aids

The thought of flying with hearing aids can bring uncertainty. You may be wondering:

  • Can I wear hearing aids on a plane?
  • Can I wear my hearing aids through airport security?
  • What is the process with TSA and hearing aids?
  • Will I experience ear pain during my flight?

Don’t worry: Hearing aids can be worn throughout your flight journey—including security, takeoff, and landing.

Airport security and hearing aids can be seamless. They don’t set off metal detectors, so you're not required to remove them during screening—though it’s helpful to inform TSA officers beforehand.1 In fact, keeping your hearing aids on makes it easier to hear important announcements, like gate changes.

As for ear pain during flight, airplane ear happens when the air pressure in the middle ear and the environment are out of balance, causing discomfort. This can happen whether or not you wear hearing aids. Yawning, swallowing, or chewing gum usually improves symptoms.

Pro tip: If it brings extra reassurance when traveling with hearing aids, reserve an aisle seat for easier communication with flight attendants and inform them about your hearing loss so they can better assist you.

Additional travel challenges for hearing aid users

For hearing aid users, there are extra logistics to plan for, such as:

Navigating noisy environments: Airports, restaurants, and tourist destinations often present challenging environments where hearing aid users may miss important announcements, tour guide information, or social interactions.

Hearing aid care on the go: Different climates, such as rain, humidity, and beach activities, signal potential concerns about damage or malfunctions when away from home. Plus, the shuffle of travel puts devices at risk of damage or loss.

Game-changing hearing technology for travelers

Fortunately, for people with hearing loss, advanced technology in modern hearing aids alleviates these challenges, so you don’t have to give them another thought. 

 

 

 

Modern hearing aids feature an extended Bluetooth range that keeps you connected. With Bluetooth connection of up to 600 feet in devices like the Miracle-EarSPARK™ RIC,  you can stream sound from your phone or computer directly to your hearing aids—whether watching movies on a flight, calling a taxi, or video chatting from a hotel.

Some Miracle-Ear hearing aids utilize Auracast technology—a feature built on Bluetooth’s LE audio system that lets your hearing devices connect to broadcast audio streams, such as the public announcements system at the airport. With Auracast technology, you can connect your hearing aids to the audio stream at your gate, so that all the announcements go directly into your ears rather than having to strain to hear them ambiently.

Since Auracast is a newer technology, not all hearing aids are equipped with that capability, however. Many older models feature Telecoil technology, which also allows direct connection to PA systems without special equipment.

When traveling, you’re often exposed to more moisture than in your daily life—whether that’s being caught in unexpected rain when exploring a new city, getting splashed at the beach, or visiting humid destinations. But waterproof hearing aids can give you peace of mind and extra durability when you’re on the go. Miracle-EarBLISS™ hearing aids feature eight protective layers of water resistance designed to withstand sweat, rain, dirt, and dust.

Note: While these are waterproof hearing aids, they cannot be fully submerged in water. Please remove them before swimming or taking a shower.

 

 

Some of Miracle-Ear’s rechargeable hearing aid batteries offer up to 51 hours of battery life on a single charge—more than two full days of power. But most rechargeable hearing aids from Miracle-Ear will last at least up to 19-24 hours, and then fully recharge overnight while you sleep for your next day of adventuring. Miracle-Ear batteries are great for overseas flights and all-day exploring, without needing to locate outlets or carry extra batteries.
dr with patient
dr with patient
"When we're traveling, it's really a plus to know that there is a Miracle-Ear clinic nearby that we could go to, if Bruce needed adjustment on his hearing aids"

Your hearing aid travel packing checklist

To keep your trip smooth, we recommend packing these items:

Pro Tip: To keep items organized and easy to access, packing cubes are great to use in your carry-on luggage.

Maintaining your hearing aids in different environments

Hearing aid care is important, no matter where you go. Traveling to a new place is another story. Pay attention to:

The environment you’re traveling to affects hearing aid care and wear. Hearing aids should not be exposed to extreme temperatures, and humid conditions require moisture management—even if they are water-resistant. That’s why packing a dryer or dehumidifier is so important.

Keep your hearing aids in top shape while away from home. Here’s how to clean hearing aids each night:

  1. Wipe them down. Use hearing aid cleaner wipes to remove surface oils, debris, and earwax from the hearing aid shell and any domes or earmolds.
  2. Brush away buildup. Gently clean the microphone cover, receiver, and vent openings with a cleaning brush. Point the hearing aid downward so debris falls out—not back into the device.
  3. Store properly overnight. Keep your hearing aid case in a clean, dry space—ideally a dehumidifying box. Leave battery doors open to prevent moisture buildup. Keep rechargeable models clean and dry in chargers. If exposed to humidity or sweat, use your drying kit first.

Find an expert at any of our 1,600+ locations nationwide

Your store

Loading

Prepare before you go

Vacation is supposed to be fun—and your hearing aids shouldn’t add stress. Plan now, so you can unwind later.

Pre-travel hearing health checkup

Before leaving, add the following to your to-do list:

  • Test hearing aids
  • Ensure all hearing devices and accessories are functioning.
  • Consult your hearing care professional—they can provide advice tailored to your trip, and do a maintenance check-up of your hearing aids before you leave.

Miracle-Ear® app: Support wherever you travel

If your hearing aids break or malfunction when you’re traveling, don't fret. The Miracle-Ear app can be a great resource while traveling. From remote adjustments to troubleshooting, download ahead of time. Support is only a click away if you need it.

Pro tip: With more than 1,600 Miracle-Ear locations nationwide (including locations in Hawaii, Alaska, and Puerto Rico!), you can find in-person help on all your domestic travels and quickly return to your travel itinerary.

hcp handing bag to customer

Download the Miracle-Ear hearing aid app

The Miracle-Ear® app is available for iOS and Android devices. Download it from the App Store or Google Play today!

Hear every moment of your journey

Preparing for a trip is stressful enough without hearing aid care logistics. Today’s advancements mean hearing aids enhance travel, not limit it. With Auracast, water resistance, extended battery, and optimized Bluetooth range, you can embrace your adventures with confidence.

Schedule a consultation with a hearing care professional for personalized travel advice.

1 Transportation Security Administration. "Travelers with Disabilities and Medical Conditions." TSA, www.tsa.gov/travel/tsa-cares/disabilities-and-medical-conditions.
people driving

Do you need more information? Contact us

Complete the form and someone from our team will reach out to you. With over 1,600 stores nationwide, we'll help you find the one closest to you.

Miracle-Ear ® is a registered trademark of Miracle-Ear, Inc. 

Apple, the Apple logo and iPhone are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. 

App Store is a service mark of Apple Inc. 

Google Play and the Google Play logo are trademarks of Google LLC. 

The Bluetooth ® word mark and logos are registered trademarks owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and any use of such marks by Miracle-Ear is under license. 

Other trademarks and trade names are those of their respective owners.

More from the blog

Discover a world of sounds.
View all

Get support and advice

Book an appointment online

Book now

Take a free online hearing test

Start test

Find a hearing aid center near you

Search now