Pregnancy Travel Guide: Flying and Planning Your Trip
The thought of traveling while pregnant might terrify or excite you—or a little of both! When I found out I was pregnant, I already had several trips planned and even added a few more along the way. Initially, I was nervous but with proper preparation, I discovered that traveling while pregnant can still be a smooth experience.
If you have the green light from your OB and the opportunity to travel, it can be a wonderful way to create meaningful memories that you’ll one day share with your baby. A babymoon, in particular, is a beautiful chance to connect with your partner (or even friends or family) and celebrate this exciting new chapter in your life.
Babymoon memories in Asia and Miami
What Are The Limitations When Traveling Pregnant?
Even with a healthy pregnancy, it’s important to be mindful of how you spend your time. For example, during our trip to Vietnam, we skipped Halong Bay due to its remote location and long car ride to arrive. Instead, we opted for a closer excursion to the Quang Phu Cau incense farms, just an hour away, and enjoyed it just as much!
There are so many wonderful activities you can enjoy:
Beach Relaxation: Spend time lounging by the water with a good book or good company.
Museum Visits: Explore art, history, or cultural exhibits at your own pace in air-conditioned comfort.
Scenic Boat Rides: Enjoy stunning views without much physical exertion.
Walking Tours: A great way to explore a new city with a guide
Food Tours: Experience the local culture and flavors of your destination
Cooking Classes: Prepare local dishes in a hands-on class, perfect for a seated activity with minimal strain.
Shopping: Stroll through local markets or boutiques to pick up souvenirs or unique finds.
This is probably a time to avoid extreme activities like dangerous hikes or anything where you could risk falling or injuring yourself. Always listen to your body. Take breaks, drink plenty of water, and don’t hesitate to adjust your itinerary if you’re feeling tired or unwell or consult a local doctor if needed.
Choosing Your Destination
You want to be mindful of choosing a destination to ensure both you and your baby stay healthy and comfortable throughout your trip. Here are a few tips to help you plan wisely:
Here are a few tips:
Research Travel Advisories: Look out for concerns like Zika or dengue fever, flus, etc.
Discuss with Your OB: Always consult your doctor before booking your trip for reassurance.
Access to Medical Care: Choose a destination where you’ll have access to reliable healthcare in case of emergencies.
Plan Activities Wisely: Consider the type of activities you’ll do and the destination’s altitude or terrain.
For example, we initially planned a trip to Peru during my first trimester but switched to the Cayman Islands instead. I’ve always wanted to visit Machu Pichu but the high altitude and demanding hikes weren’t ideal for a newly pregnant mom. We choose the Cayman Islands instead because it offered the perfect mix of relaxation and flexibility to rest as needed.
Pregnant Packing List:
While your packing list won’t deviate much from the norm, here are a few essentials that made my trips more comfortable:
Compression Socks: These help maintain circulation and prevent blood clots (DVT), a common risk during pregnancy.
Water Bottle: Bring a large, refillable bottle to stay hydrated—1 liter per hour is ideal, especially on flights.
Travel Pillow: A small pregnancy pillow can provide added comfort for long flights or at your destination.
Healthy Snacks: Pack nutritious options like nuts, dried fruit, or granola bars to keep your energy up.
Comfortable Shoes: Choose slip-ons that accommodate the inevitable swelling and are easy to remove.
Loose Clothing: Opt for breathable, stretchy fabrics that allow room for your growing bump.
Prenatal Vitamins and Medications: Keep these in your carry-on for easy access.
Cooling Items: A handheld fan or cooling wipes are great for staying comfortable, especially in warmer climates.
Entertainment: Download movies, podcast, or e-books to keep you relaxed during downtime.
Emergency Contacts: Have a list of contacts, including your OB and local medical facilities, just in case.
When Is the Best Time to Travel During Pregnancy?
The second trimester is widely considered the best time to travel, and I couldn’t agree more. By this point, most nausea has subsided, most of your energy levels have returned, and your bump is still small enough not to get in the way.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
First Trimester: Fatigue and nausea are very common. Keep your itinerary light and flexible.
Second Trimester: The golden window! You’re likely feeling your best—energetic, comfortable, and ready to explore.
Third Trimester: Travel becomes more challenging as your body grows, so shorter trips or staycations are ideal.
Always check with your OB before traveling especially later in pregnancy. Some airlines have restrictions for international travel after 28 weeks and may require a doctor’s note.
Tips for Flying While Pregnant
Flying while pregnant is entirely manageable with a few precautions to maintain good circulation during the flight.
Choose Your Seat Wisely: An aisle seat makes it easier to get up and move around without disturbing other passengers.
Get Up Often: Aim to stand and walk around every 1-2 hours during the flight. This keeps blood flowing and reduces the risk of swelling or blood clots. Use trips to the restroom as a reminder to move.
Elevate Your Legs: Keeping your feet elevated helps to reduce swelling and improve circulation. You can use a carry-on bag or a flight leg hammock to prop your feet. If possible, choose a seat with extra legroom to stretch out comfortably. These small adjustments can make a big difference in maintaining blood flow during your journey.
Wear Compression Socks: These are a must-have for any pregnant traveler. They provide gentle pressure to promote blood flow and reduce the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
Hydrate Hydrate Hydrate: Staying hydrated is SO important. Flying puts stress on the body and dehydrates you. Aim to drink around 1 liter of water per hour of travel. You can bring a refillable bottle to avoid relying on those tiny in-flight cups.
Stretch: Getting up to stretch is important on longer flights. If getting up isn’t an option (like during turbulence or takeoff), you can still keep your circulation flowing by doing simple stretches by flexing and point your toes, tilting to the side and rolling your ankles.
Being pregnant is just the beginning of a new chapter of adventures! With proper planning and confirmation from your OB, you can still enjoy meaningful getaways.
This may be one of the last times you’ll travel completely carefree before welcoming your little one. Whether it’s a road trip, a short flight, or a staycation, it’s a wonderful ime to celebrate your journey into motherhood and create memories you’ll cherish forever.