All aboard! Consider these tips when traveling by train.
If you are planning on traveling by train to visit family or friends or to take a warm-weather vacation over the holiday season, it’s a good idea to brush up on some travel tips for people with hearing loss ahead of time.
In this guide, we’ll cover a few simple train travel hints for hearing loss, including:
- Buy your ticket online
- Know your route
- Bring your assistive listening devices
- Arrive early
- Choose a quiet seat
Read about each of these train travel tips for hearing loss below, and be sure to research any COVID-19 protocols or travel restrictions prior to booking your trip.
Buy your ticket online
Consider purchasing your train ticket online if you prefer that option over ordering by phone or in-person at the ticket window. Most stations will have an online sales option where you can select and purchase a ticket in advance, without the need communicate with a ticket agent in a noisy station. Many train carriers allow you to collect your ticket from a machine at the station on the day of travel or use an e-ticket system, but check your online receipt to confirm.
Know your route
Reviewing your route and train schedule beforehand can help you feel prepared for your travels. Make a note of all the planned stops along the route so that you can track how far away you are from your next destination.
Knowing your route is also a helpful tip for bus travel with hearing loss, just in case your adventures lead you to a cross-country or citywide excursion via motor coach.
Bring your assistive listening devices
If you wear hearing aids or use another type of assistive listening device, be sure to bring along supplies, even if you think it’s unlikely you’ll need them. Your packing list may include spare batteries, as well as drying and storage equipment.
Learn more about how to plan a hearing loss-friendly vacation here.
Arrive early
Another train travel tip for hearing loss is to arrive for check-in early, just like you would for other modes of travel, as we suggest in our Travel Tips for Seniors article. You can use the extra time to communicate with staff, check for any schedule changes, review COVID-19 safety protocols, and arrange for a seat that’s easiest to hear or see announcements en route.
Choose a quiet seat
Some areas of the train may be designated as “quiet zones” that can make it easier for you to hear alerts and announcements from the conductor. You may also consider letting the conductor or attendant know about your hearing loss, if you feel comfortable doing so, and inform them of any accommodations you’d like to receive before departure.
These five train travel tips for hearing loss can help you feel more prepared for your next adventure or weekend getaway. Find more articles about traveling with hearing loss, including hearing loss-friendly romantic travel destinations and tour group travel tips for hearing loss on our blog.
