Travelling While Pregnant: Safety Tips & Hacks
Whether you're planning a relaxing babymoon, a family visit, or one last holiday before your little one arrives, travelling during pregnancy can be a beautiful and refreshing experience.
With a bit of preparation and the right know-how, it’s absolutely possible to explore the world while keeping both you and your baby safe and comfortable.
Here’s everything you need to know to make travelling during pregnancy smoother - from health and safety tips to practical hacks for the journey.
Is It Safe to Travel While Pregnant?
In most healthy pregnancies, yes - it’s safe to travel! The ideal time is usually during the second trimester (weeks 14–28). Morning sickness tends to have eased by then, your bump isn’t too big just yet, and you’re likely to have more energy.
That said, it’s always best to check in with your midwife or obstetrician before you go, especially if:
- You’re in the third trimester
- You’ve experienced any complications
- You’re expecting twins or more
- You’re planning to travel far from home
Before You Go: Planning Ahead
A few things to bear in mind before setting off:
- Choose the Right Destination: Opt for places with reliable medical facilities, access to clean water, and low health risks. It’s best to avoid destinations that require vaccinations not recommended during pregnancy.
- Speak to Your Healthcare Provider: Get the go-ahead from your care team. They can provide useful medical documents - such as a ‘fit-to-fly’ letter (often required after 28 weeks) - and advice tailored to your needs.
- Pack Medical Essentials, don’t forget: your maternity notes, any prescribed medications or prenatal vitamins, a basic first aid kit, travel insurance that includes pregnancy-related cover
Tips for Safe and Comfortable Travel
Whether it’s a road trip, a flight, or a staycation, here are some top tips for staying safe and comfortable:
- Dress for Comfort: Think soft, breathable fabrics, stretchy waistbands, and layers you can easily adjust. Comfy shoes are a must - your feet may swell, especially during long travel days.
- Stay Hydrated: Travelling - particularly by air - can be dehydrating. Bring a reusable water bottle and sip regularly. It might mean more loo trips, but it helps reduce swelling and keeps your energy up.
- Move Regularly: If you’re seated for long stretches (in the car, on a train or plane), aim to move about every hour. Stretch, walk a little, or do simple movements like ankle rolls and calf raises to boost circulation and reduce the risk of blood clots.
- Bring Healthy Snacks: Pack easy, pregnancy-friendly snacks like fruit, oatcakes, nuts, or cereal bars. They can help manage nausea and stave off hunger if food options are limited en route.
- Prioritise Sleep: Travelling can be tiring when you’re pregnant. Choose accommodation where you can rest properly, and consider bringing a pregnancy pillow or travel cushion for added comfort.
- Wear Compression Socks on Flights: These improve circulation and reduce swelling - especially handy for longer flights when you’re less mobile.
- Know the Nearest Healthcare Options: Look up the nearest hospital or clinic at your destination, just in case. Hopefully you won’t need it - but knowing where to go can give you peace of mind.
Travel Hacks for Mums-to-Be
A few small tricks can make a big difference:
- Book an aisle seat - it’s easier to get up for the loo and to stretch your legs
- Download relaxation apps or calming playlists - ideal for easing travel nerves or helping you sleep
- Use a supportive belly band - great for longer walks or bumpy journeys
- Pack light - or better yet, let someone else carry the heavy stuff!
When Not to Travel
Most journeys are perfectly fine - but there are a few signs that mean you should pause and consult your healthcare provider before heading off:
- Vaginal bleeding or fluid loss
- Persistent or strong abdominal pain
- Feeling faint or dizzy
- A history of early labour
- High blood pressure or other pregnancy complications
Always listen to your body. If something doesn’t feel right, it’s better to reschedule than to take unnecessary risks.
Travelling while pregnant doesn’t have to be stressful - it can be a lovely chance to unwind, make memories, and enjoy some quiet time before your baby arrives. Whether you’re heading to the beach, the countryside, or a cosy city break, a bit of forward planning and a flexible mindset can go a long way.
Above all, trust your instincts, take it at your own pace, and don’t be afraid to say no to anything that feels too much.
Bon Voyage!
