If you have the travel bug, you might be itching to wander before your family grows by one. Whether planning the perfect babymoon with your partner, hoping to travel for work, or dreaming about a final solo journey before motherhood begins, safety must come first. Is traveling while pregnant possible, or should you put your vacation plans aside until your newborn's 18th birthday?
Every woman is different, but plenty of moms-to-be manage to sneak in a trip or two while expecting. The tricky part is choosing when and where to go.
We've created this guide to help you make the right decision about traveling with your most precious cargo on board. We've included safety considerations and trip planning tips to help you get where you need to be without a fuss.
Read on so you can make a wise decision about when to hit the road before your future lap-baby arrives.
Should I Be Traveling While Pregnant?
Traveling always comes with risks, whether you're pregnant or not. Taking a trip when you're expecting means weighing the risks for yourself and your sweet baby. Flying while pregnant is possible, but you should always consult your doctor and keep your unique medical situation in mind.
Before you book those tickets, go and ask your doctor's opinion. Never travel without explicit medical approval. While a day trip is probably fine, don't board a plane unless your OB/GYN has confirmed that it is safe and appropriate.
Be sure to let your doctor know where you'll be traveling. Some destinations involve additional risks, such as malaria or the Zika virus. Your healthcare team may also have recommendations regarding the current Covid-19 and Monkeypox situations.
Generally, women experiencing a healthy pregnancy with no complications will probably get the okay to travel. Your doctor might ask you to restrict travel starting four weeks before your due date. Careful, vaccinated travelers can anticipate a safe and easy trip.
The Best Time to Travel During Pregnancy
If you're planning a vacation or babymoon, you may want to be thoughtful about when you depart. Each of the three trimesters of pregnancy is unique and comes with challenges. With careful planning, you can ensure you'll have the best time possible.
The first trimester may not be the ideal time to take a trip. Moms-to-be tend to experience more nausea and discomfort during the first weeks of pregnancy. If you're sick, you may have to sit out during activities.
The third trimester also comes with complications. You'll be more tired and have more physical challenges. Stress from your trip might induce preterm labor, and you may have to deal with Braxton Hicks contractions during the journey.
Our recommendation is to travel for leisure during the second trimester. Most women are no longer nauseous by the time week 14 rolls around. You'll have fewer physical restrictions and won't mind sitting for long periods or sleeping in a different bed.
Travel Risks for Pregnant Women
Some aspects of traveling are more dangerous for pregnant women. Keep these risks in mind when deciding whether you'd like to travel.
- Sitting for a long time can cause blood clots
- Zika virus and malaria can cause birth complications
- Medications for traveler's diarrhea (and other common travel maladies) might be dangerous while pregnant
- Excessive stress can sometimes lead to preterm labor
Most airlines and cruise lines have policies to ensure that travel is safe. For example, you may not be able to book a cruise during any part of your third trimester. Once you are 28-36 weeks pregnant, you may see flight restrictions, depending on the airline and your destination.
Trip Preparations During Pregnancy
Once your doctor has cleared you for travel, you might wonder how to make your trip as easy and comfortable as possible. Here are a few of our best tips for traveling during pregnancy.
Pick Your Seat Strategically
If you have the option, pay the upcharge and choose where you sit on the plane. Some seats have more leg room, while others are closer to the bathroom. If you urinate a lot, it may be wise to pick an aisle seat.
Choose Rolling Luggage
Pack light and choose luggage that puts as little strain on your body as possible. A high-quality rolling suitcase is a lifesaver. There's no need to struggle with heavy carry-on bags—check that luggage!
Make an Emergency Plan
It's better to have an emergency plan and not need it than to find yourself without one in an emergency. You might want to find an OB/GYN in the city where you'll be. Keep important phone numbers on hand, and let others know where you'll be.
Prioritize Hydration
Nothing derails a trip faster than fainting in a public place. Pregnant women need a lot of water to stay healthy and regular. If you'll be somewhere with safe drinking water, bring a reusable bottle to save money on bottled water.
How to Travel With a Baby on Board
If you love to travel or travel for work, it can be hard to slow down now that you have a baby on board. Traveling while pregnant is possible when you take some travel safety precautions before you go. Always consult your doctor before you travel so you and your precious cargo will arrive at your perfect destination.
It can be hard to be away from your sweet baby, but the Pixsee smart baby monitor eliminates the distance. Jetsetters love using Pixsee's crystal-clear voice recorders or two-way talk to sing their baby to sleep from anywhere.
Visit our Amazon online store and Pixsee Shop to find out how else Pixsee can connect you with your precious baby, no matter where you roam.
