Enjoy some fun in the sand and surf with these suggestions.
Nothing quite compares to the feeling of sand between your toes, sun on your skin, and the breeze in your hair by the seaside. Of course, we’ve all had those days where we’re scrambling to get ready and head out the door to start a trip — so it helps to be prepared with a list of what to pack for a day at the beach.
For those with hearing loss, there are just a few extra things to keep in mind to help you make the most of your time.
Here are the top eight things to bring with you:
- A large hat
- Sunscreen
- Hearing protection
- A waterproof carrying case
- Swim earplugs/cap
- Plenty of water
- Cleaning kit
- A dehumidifier
Let’s learn some quick info about what to pack for a day at the beach with hearing loss.
A large hat
Excessive sun exposure can result in sunburned ears and overheated hearing aids, so it’s important to protect them with a wide-brimmed hat. Not only does it provide extra protection from the sun’s damaging UV rays, but it can also help you stay cooler while you enjoy the beach. (Don’t just reach for a baseball cap, as these don’t protect the ears or neck!)
Sunscreen
Sunscreen is also a must-have for protecting your ears (and any other exposed skin) during your beach trip; it’s a staple of what to pack for a day at the beach. Look for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 that covers both UVA and UVB rays. Don’t forget to reapply every two hours and more often if you’re swimming or sweating. If you wear hearing aids, be sure to remove them before applying sunscreen to avoid damaging your devices. We have more tips for protecting your skin from the sun here!
Hearing protection
If you’re planning on spending part of your day riding on a motorized boat or jet ski, consider bringing along some hearing protection like earplugs or earmuffs. The motors on these kinds of watercraft can reach 90-100 decibels, which is enough to harm your hearing with prolonged exposure. To avoid hearing loss or tinnitus, make sure to keep your ears protected when participating in any water sports.
A waterproof carrying case
Sand, sweat, and saltwater are all bad news for your hearing aids and other assistive listening devices, and they can all be found in abundance at the beach! It’s best to take out your hearing aids and store them safely while swimming or lying in the sand. If you don’t have a case designed specifically for hearing aids, just bring a small container with a lid and some dry padding inside to keep your devices safe, clean, and dry while you enjoy the beach.
Swim earplugs/cap
If you’re planning on going swimming, be sure to bring a swim cap or a pair of swim earplugs along to protect your ears from bacteria and debris. This is especially important for preventing swimmer’s ear, an uncomfortable infection that can harm your hearing. Don’t just pack regular foam earplugs, since these will actually soak up water — spring for silicone instead.
Plenty of water
Staying well-hydrated is essential for everyone planning to spend time outdoors in the heat. Bring a water bottle with you to the beach (and ideally a couple of refills, in case the beach doesn’t have a water fountain), and keep sipping throughout the day. Check out more tips for staying hydrated this summer.
Cleaning kit
Even if you’re careful with your hearing aids and other devices, it’s a good idea to be prepared in case any dirt, sand, or debris finds its way in. The most important thing is a soft, dry microfiber cloth so you can wipe them down. Check your device’s care instructions to see if they recommend any other products (like sprays or wet wipes). Here are a few more tips on caring for your assistive listening devices!
A dehumidifier
Beach environments are often humid, which can lead to moisture buildup in the devices, potentially causing damage. If you bring a dehumidifier to use at the end of your beach day, you’ll be able to remove that moisture, thereby preventing corrosion and prolonging their lifespan. Reducing moisture also helps maintain optimal sound quality, so you can keep enjoying the sound of ocean waves crashing for years to come.
Now that you know what to pack for a day at the beach, it’s time to get excited about your trip! Use your CapTel phone to call up your favorite beach buddy and plan your day. Here are some healthy snack ideas to bring along so you can keep your energy up between beach walks and swims.
