Tips for Traveling While You are Pregnant

General Tips for All Modes of Traveling

1. Wear loose, comfortable clothes and shoes.

2. Take along a pillow.

3. Keep some healthy snacks and lots of liquids.

4. Carry a book.

5. Eat small and light meals.

6. Avoid traveling alone.

7. Carry a copy of your medical history for reference, in case of any emergency.

One can safely opt for all regular modes of transportation, like air, car, or train (of course, no bullock carts please), keeping in mind a few tips for each one of them.

Traveling By Air

1. Travel Before Third Trimester
Try to do most of your traveling during the second trimester, as it saves you from the inconvenience of morning sickness, which might get aggravated in combination with motion sickness.

Also, there are fewer chances of miscarriages at this stage. Most airlines restrict you from traveling after 36 weeks.

2. Immunization
Either avoid going to, or else talk in advance with your practitioner, if you are traveling to countries which require immunization or are known to have cases of malaria or influenza.

3. Maintain Hydration
Air travel is known to cause dehydration for lesser humidity levels in the cabin. Drink plenty of fluids throughout the flight.

4. Comfortable Seating
Try to get seats with more leg room. Taking an aisle seat would be a good option for easy movement to restrooms.

Traveling by Car

1. Buckle Up
Do wear a seat belt for your safety, but wear it below the belly, never around or above it.

2. Motion Sickness
If you have a history of motion sickness, sit in the front seat and open the window for fresh air. Focus on a distant object or at horizon.

3. Maintain Good Circulation
To avoid cramping and swelling of legs, keep stretching, rotating, and wiggling your legs to maintain good circulation.

4. Take Breaks
Try to take small breaks after every one hour or so. Get out of the car and stretch your limbs. Also utilize this time to use restroom facilities.

5. Prefer Back Seat
Sitting on the back and stretching your legs all over the seat is the best position to have a comfortable car journey.

By following the above guidelines and some basic steps, there is no reason for you to hold back on traveling during pregnancy, unless of course suggested otherwise by your health care practitioner.

Most importantly “listen to your body”. Don’t ignore even the slightest of discomfort.