Written By Adrienne Rutherford, Director of Operations and Clinical Support
When you are pregnant and traveling the whole world revolves around you and your needs right? Err, nope. We live in a world where people are afraid to acknowledge pregnancy. With or without your tummy bump showing, people aren’t sure how to help you. It’s ok to be vocal when you need some assistance, but even better to be prepared in advance to avoid any issues that could have been prevented.
If you are traveling by car, boat or air, you need these 10 best travel tips. Knowing how to navigate these roads, waters, or skies ensures your best travel life while pregnant. While in the planning stages, you need to keep in mind what trimester you are in or will be at the time of travel. The safest time to travel is between the 18th and 24th weeks of pregnancy, but some airlines allow travel up to 36 weeks. Think about essentials you need on hand if you are traveling past 30 weeks. A pregnancy emergency kit can be helpful just in case of pre-term labor.
Water is essential –
Don’t forget that traveling while pregnant (or anytime while you are not traveling) means having water on hand at all times. Drinking water is vital for your pregnancy health and you can avoid unnecessary uterine contractions that can be caused by dehydration. 8 to 12 cups of water minimum per day is recommended. Remember, you need to have access to bottled or filtered water instead of tap water which can vary on your chosen travel destination, for example in many parts of Mexico & Asia tap water can be unsafe to drink for many travelers.
Consider where you are traveling –
Depending on what region you are traveling to, you need to ensure that items you are going to pack will be well-fitting at the time of your travel. For example, swim & snow apparel will fit differently when you are in your 3rd trimester. How much should you pack? Don’t pack more than you can lift into the overhead bin as it’s considered unsafe to ask someone to help you with baggage. Make sure you have the majority of the items you need in your carry-on baggage, so you never have to check your bags. You don’t want to find yourself scrambling upon arriving at your destination trying to find maternity stores to replace items lost by the airline. You took time to plan just the right things for your travel, so it would be a real shame to lose any of your belongings.
If you are anything like me, then you like quick lists and guides to help you plan and pack appropriately. Below you will see a quick guide with some essentials to keep in mind for your upcoming travel while you are pregnant.
- Consider packing multiple small bags to lighten any lifting, and don’t check bags (Maternity items are not always easily replaceable)
- Have your midwife/OBGYN contact information on hand, including a copy of your most recent health records in case of an emergency
- Bring any supplements and medications along with extra in case your travel plans get extended for any reason
- Pack destination specific clothing wear & shoes that are comfortable and fit well
- It’s best to save remote travel destinations for when you are not pregnant, and avoid bumpy roads when possible
- Find a good lumbar pillow for use during your travel
- Always pack healthy and yummy snacks for those times you need a quick energy boost
- It’s a good idea to comment about your pregnancy to your flight attendants, hotel front desk staff, and others who may have the ability to be helpful to you during your travel. (Can I say extra snacks, water, better hotel room options? Yes please!)
- Don’t forget to get your body moving and stretching your muscles to avoid blood clots
- Water, water, water and more water. You can also pack a liquid IV for whenever you are feeling it’s needed
Consider all your options during the planning process. You can make or break your travel by not being as prepared as possible. Always discuss with your midwife or doctor if you have travel restrictions to consider during your pregnancy. I would love to hear your feedback on what tips you use to make traveling while pregnant as smooth and comfortable as possible. Please comment below and share with your friends. Don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter to get the latest blog posts and information. Always be blessed my friends!