Summer vacations are a time for relaxation, exploration, and creating lasting memories. However, amidst the excitement of traveling, it's important to be aware of the potential risks to our hearing health. From noisy airplanes to bustling road trips, exposure to high sound levels can have both immediate and long-term effects on our health. According to the CDC, exposure to sound greater than 85 dB can cause permanent damage to your hearing. Read below to learn valuable tips for protecting your hearing while on the go this summer.

Understand the Noise Risks of Travel 

Whether you're soaring through the skies or embarking on a road trip, various modes of transportation can expose you to high sound levels. Here are a few examples of noise risks during travel:

• Airplane Cabins: Airplanes generate significant noise levels, especially during takeoff and landing. The cabin noise can reach levels between 85 and 105 dB, which can be harmful to your hearing. Additionally, loud music, conversations, and plane announcements can further contribute to noise exposure.
• Road Trips and Traffic: Road trips offer the freedom to explore a little closer to home, but long hours on the road can subject you to continuous noise. Speeding vehicles, wind noise, and traffic can generate sound levels exceeding safe limits. At highway speeds, the noise in a car can reach up to 89 dB, while traffic noise can hover around 85 dB.
• Trains and Horns: High-speed trains and train horns can produce loud noise levels during your journey. Train noise can surpass 95 dB, and horn blasts can even exceed 100 dB.

Tips for Protecting Your Hearing During Travel

To ensure your hearing remains protected while traveling, consider implementing the following measures:

• Wear Earplugs: Invest in a pair of high-quality earplugs to reduce the impact of loud sounds during your travels. Earplugs effectively block out excessive noise and are particularly useful when you're not operating a vehicle. Shop earplugs here.
• Moderate Volume Levels: Keep the volume of your personal audio devices, such as headphones or earbuds, below 60% of the maximum volume. Even if your surroundings are noisy– like in an airplane cabin– this practice will help prevent overexposure to loud sounds.
• Use ReBound: Our research-back product, ReBound, offers additional hearing protection during your travels. ReBound gel packs are not TSA-approved, so we recommend freezing them before you fly for in-air relaxation, or packing them in your checked-bag for additional self-care at your destination. You can shop ReBound here.

As you embark on your summer travels, remember that protecting your hearing health is just as important as any other aspect of your well-being. By following the tips provided and incorporating ReBound into your travel routine, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable journey while preserving your hearing.

Safe travels!