Travel Tips for Pregnant Women Based on Each Trimester
Are you wondering whether traveling is safe while pregnant? Or perhaps what safety measures you should take when traveling by different means of transportation? Pregnancy is a beautiful time, but it also raises many questions and worries. Traveling while pregnant not only becomes more uncomfortable but also more difficult.
When the first wave of excitement and happiness has passed after seeing two lines on a pregnancy test, questions arise. What should you do next? What foods can you eat during pregnancy? What should you avoid during pregnancy? And how will pregnancy affect your travels? We understand that this time can be challenging and full of doubts. In this article, we’ll try to answer your questions about pregnancy and traveling to help you feel safer and more prepared on the road.
Is traveling safe while pregnant?
Your first question is probably whether traveling while pregnant is safe. Most moms-to-be mainly worry about air travel, but let’s see how to adjust to different types of travel and transportation.
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By plane
Plane travel is one of the most energy-consuming and challenging ways to travel. You don't need to be pregnant to understand how draining even a few hours on a plane can be. So what about pregnancy?
It’s generally safe to fly until around 36 weeks (32 weeks for international flights) of pregnancy. Of course, you should always consult with your doctor, but if you and your baby are healthy, you should be able to fly domestically up until the final weeks of your pregnancy.
What should you consider when traveling by plane?
Because of prolonged sitting and pressure differences, your limbs might swell more than usual. To avoid that, move and stretch every 1-2 hours and wear compression socks. Choose aisle seats for easier bathroom access. Check airline policies, as many require medical certificates after 28 weeks of pregnancy.
By boat
If you’re planning a coastal vacation or have to travel by ferry to work or home, you shouldn’t have much problem doing so for most of your pregnancy. However, special rules apply for long-duration trips like cruise ships. Check cruise line pregnancy policies, as many won't accept passengers past 24-28 weeks of pregnancy because of the risk of premature birth.
What to consider when traveling by boat?
One of the most challenging parts of boat trips is motion sickness. It can become much worse during pregnancy, so make sure to have anti-motion sickness pills approved by your doctor or special gadgets like motion sickness bracelets or glasses. If possible, travel on larger vessels, as they tend to be more stable.
By car
Traveling by car, both as a passenger and driver, should be fine throughout the entire pregnancy.
What to consider when traveling by car?
As always, wear a seatbelt and place it below your belly, across your hips. Position the seat back from the airbag when possible. If you’re taking a long journey, take frequent breaks every 2 hours for circulation, and keep emergency supplies and medical information handy
By public transportation
If you commute to work by public transportation, you should be able to continue doing so throughout your entire pregnancy. In many cities, public transportation like buses and trains has special sections for pregnant women for easier access.
What to consider when traveling by public transportation?
A few things to keep in mind: your balance might be a bit off when pregnant, so be careful when standing on a moving bus or train. Try to sit when possible, especially on longer journeys, and consider wearing a "Baby on Board" badge so that other passengers can give you their seats or help you with heavy bags.
Traveling recommendations based on each pregnancy trimester
Most of the travel recommendations are for people in their third trimester. While in the first trimester, you might have many uncomfortable physical symptoms like nausea and fatigue, it’s generally safe to travel by air, road, and water. The second trimester might be the easiest time to travel as the nausea fades away, and you’re still physically comfortable.
The third trimester can be more challenging because your chances of going into labor increase. Since not all vehicles can be stopped in the middle of a trip and redirected to the nearest hospital, traveling is often forbidden after the 32nd week of pregnancy.
First trimester (weeks 1-12)
It’s often a challenging time for travel due to morning sickness and fatigue. However, the pros of traveling during the first weeks of pregnancy are that you have no physical mobility restrictions yet and a lower risk of pregnancy complications.
To make traveling a breeze during the first trimester, pack anti-nausea remedies. These can be helpful not only on boats but also on planes and in cars. You should also consider travel insurance, as this period has a higher miscarriage risk. Miscarriages are common in the first trimester and usually happen due to natural causes, not traveling.
Second trimester (weeks 13-26)
The middle of pregnancy is generally considered the best time to travel because morning sickness usually subsides, your energy levels should be higher, you might have better mobility than in the third trimester, and there is a lower risk of preterm labor.
However, you can make your trip more comfortable and enjoyable by taking regular breaks and walking and stretching every 2 hours when possible.
The second trimester is considered the golden period for planned trips. Many moms-to-be choose this time to take a babymoon vacation, as they can still move comfortably and enjoy this time to the fullest.
Third trimester (weeks 27-40)
The third trimester might be the most challenging time to travel as the due date approaches. Keep in mind that most airlines won't allow travel after 36 weeks, and cruise lines often cut off at 24-28 weeks. Long car trips might also become more uncomfortable, so try to plan longer trips either before the 3rd trimester or after giving birth.
To stay more comfortable and relaxed when traveling in the later stages of your pregnancy, stay within 2 hours of medical care. You can mark the nearest hospitals on your phone's map app along your route to feel prepared and calm. Always bring a copy of your medical records and consider purchasing medical evacuation insurance.
Five tips to travel more comfortably and safely while pregnant
Wear comfortable clothing & accessories
Traveling by any means of transportation usually means a lot of sitting and uncomfortable positions. To avoid discomfort, wear loose, breathable clothing, in layers. This way, you’ll be able to remove outer layers if it’s too hot or cover yourself if the temperature drops.
Natural fabrics like cotton, linen, and wool are best, as they help regulate the body’s temperature and allow sweat to evaporate better. Pack compression socks for long journeys, especially when traveling by plane. Prolonged air travel causes swelling in your feet and legs, which can make you feel uncomfortable and worsen circulation.
Bring comfortable walking shoes with good support. Try to wear closed shoes with socks so you can take off your shoes while seated. Use a pregnancy support belt to ease back pain, and consider a travel pillow for better rest.
Pick the best seating & positioning
When traveling by plane or boat, book an aisle seat in advance, for easy bathroom access. Most plane seats tend to be rigid and hard on the back, so use lumbar support pillows when sitting and recline when possible to reduce pressure on the lower back. Keep your legs uncrossed to improve circulation. You can also try leg hammocks for plane travel to keep your legs elevated while traveling.
Carry comfort items
Bring a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated and avoid hefty airport and plane prices. Pack healthy snacks like nuts, fruits, and crackers. You never know when your plane, train, or ferry may be delayed. Having something to snack on will keep you full and help prevent nausea. Carry wet wipes and tissues, and use hand sanitizer frequently, because we all know that most airlines and boat companies don’t properly disinfect seating areas after each trip.
Prepare your medication
Always carry anti-nausea or seasickness medication with you. You can also bring ginger candies or tea for nausea. You can ask for hot water on a plane or boat to prepare your own tea.
If you’re traveling later in your pregnancy, get written clearance from your doctor. Carry prenatal records and important documents, know your blood type and pregnancy details, and research hospitals at your destination. Keep emergency contacts readily available.
When you travel internationally, consult with your doctor about travel vaccinations (e.g., yellow fever, hepatitis A or B).
Stay safe while traveling
Wear seatbelts under the belly, even if you’re traveling by train, bus, plane, or boat. Keeping the seatbelt fastened at all times will keep you safe. You never know when the plane will hit turbulence or when a bus will come to a quick stop. Move and stretch every 1-2 hours if possible; it’ll prevent back pain and lower limb swelling. Avoid lifting heavy luggage, and don't be embarrassed to ask employees or other travelers for help. Consider travel insurance with pregnancy coverage for peace of mind.
Travel with ease when pregnant
Traveling is often stressful, but when you’re pregnant, it can also become much more uncomfortable. We hope that these tips will help you stay safe on the road and make your travel experience more enjoyable. If you’re unsure whether you can travel or what precautions to take, always consult with your doctor first.
We also invite you to check out our pregnancy due date calculator to help you determine which trimester you’re in so you can take the necessary precautions when traveling.
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