My Go-To Tips for Traveling with Cochlear Implants

Over the years, I’ve had my fair share of travel mishaps—from someone frantically waving their hands in my face, asking if I can sign, to international pat-downs, and, last but not least, an elderly, confused traveler walking away with my cochlear travel case containing my backups and all my equipment. Whether it’s dealing with airport security, packing the right supplies, or ensuring your hearing devices stay on throughout the trip, preparation is key.

Traveling with cochlear implants can be a nerve-racking experience. Before starting my college journey, I had never navigated an airport solo. Fast forward to the second semester of my freshman year, and I was suddenly thrown into the world of travel as a cochlear implant recipient. I wanted to share a few tips I've picked up along the way—from traveling as a child with family to my current status of navigating trips on my own.

Here’s some pearls of wisdom from a seasoned CI traveler(cue snarky laugh) :

1. Carry Your Cochlear Implant ID Card Everywhere

It may seem like common sense, but just as we carry our government-issued identification, this little card is a lifesaver. It is the only documented, acceptable proof of your or your child’s hearing loss. Some might think that flashing your receivers would be enough, but unfortunately, there is still a lot of work to be done in bringing awareness about our needs to the forefront. I received mine from my surgeon after my cochlear implant surgery. If you didn’t, I would recommend contacting your implant manufacturer or surgeon for assistance. As soon as I arrive at airport security, I always inform the officers about my implants. Some people may tell you to take off your receivers and go through without sound, others will say you can go through the scanner, and lastly, you can always opt for a pat-down. Children under the age of 12 cannot be patted down by an adult TSA officer; instead, their parent or adult travel companion will be patted down in their place. Does this make sense? No, but it is what happens. One of these days, I am going to have my mom write a post about some of her not-so-pleasant TSA pat-down experiences, but that is a tale for another day. Suffice it to say, no CI recipient should ever have to remove their receiver unless they choose to. Lastly, if you go through the security machines, I always explain that my devices might set off the alarm. Most of the time, though, I skip the machines altogether (more on that below) and request a pat-down instead.

2. Opt for Pat-Downs at Security

 There was a time I went through a security machine, and it messed with my implant’s sensitivity settings. Ever since that day, I’ve never gone through one again. Instead, I always ask for a pat-down.

When I was younger, my mom would make the request on my behalf, but once I turned 12, I started doing it myself. It’s easy to ask the TSA agents, and they’re usually understanding. However, if they aren’t, explain to them that your hearing devices CANNOT go through the machine, as it could affect your hearing. It’s worth the slight extra time to avoid any potential issues with my devices.

This also means allowing yourself extra time to ensure officers are available for a pat-down is crucial. We would arrive at the airport with a three-hour window before our flight, but this was also before TSA PreCheck(more on that later).

3. Pack All the Essentials in Your Carry-On

 I always keep my backups and charging kit with me in my carry-on bag. You never know when you’ll need them. Here's my usual packing list for my cochlear implants:

Kanso 2 Home Charging Dock

Nucleus 7 Sound Processors

Charging cable and 4 rechargeable batteries

Disposable zinc-air batteries (these are a lifesaver when outlets aren’t available)

Outlet plug adapters (essential for international travel)

Mini Microphone (helps with hearing in noisy environments)

The battery sleeves for disposable batteries

I also use the Nucleus app to check my battery levels. It’s super convenient to have everything in one place, and it also allows me to adjust my settings for the various noise levels and environments found in airports

4. Pre-Boarding and the Aisle Seat Hack

When I travel alone, I always try to sit in an aisle seat. It makes it easier for me to see what’s happening around me and feel/stay aware of my surroundings as well as communicate with the flight attendants. If it’s a flight with priority seating(ie. Southwest), I request pre-boarding at the counter due to my medical diagnosis/disability, which gives me extra time to settle in and get comfortable.

For flights with assigned seating, I ask at the counter or gate if they can move me to an aisle seat. In my experience, they’re usually happy to help.

5. Talk to the Flight Attendants

Before the flight takes off, if you feel comfortable, you could let the flight attendants know about your hearing loss, especially when traveling alone. It’s a small thing, but it makes a huge difference. If there’s an emergency or an announcement you might mishear over the in-flight speaker, they’ll know to provide the information directly. Flight attendants are usually very accommodating once they’re aware of the situation. However, I don’t do this often.

6. Tsa PreCheck

TSA PreCheck has been a game changer for me as a cochlear implant recipient. It simplifies the security process and takes away so much of the stress that can come with traveling. With PreCheck, I don’t have to worry about removing my shoes, belts, or jackets, and I can leave my electronic devices safely tucked away in my bag. I will add, though, if you opt for a pat down like me, you will have to take off your shoes. It’s such a relief knowing I can breeze through security without the extra hassle. This process lets me focus on my trip without unnecessary delays, and it makes the whole airport experience feel a lot less overwhelming. If you’re a CI user and travel often, I’d definitely recommend looking into it!

Traveling with cochlear implants requires a bit of extra work, but it’s totally doable. These small steps help me feel prepared and confident no matter where I’m headed. If you’re traveling with hearing devices, I hope these tips make your journey a little easier too. Happy travels! Have any questions, concerns, or experiences you’d like to share? Reach out to me here at Deaf-i, I’m always happy to help and listen. Our shared experiences are something that I place great stock in and fully believe can help us all bring further awareness and access to our community.