With the holiday season fast approaching, our feeds are filling up with snowy cabins, winter sun escapes, and family reunions. But if you’re planning to travel while pregnant, you might be looking at that “Book Now” button with a mix of excitement and hesitation.
If you’re new here and curious about the person behind these posts, you can learn more on my About page.
Is it safe? Will I be comfortable? Furthermore, what if I need a doctor?
The short answer is: Yes, you usually can! In fact, planning to travel while pregnant can be a wonderful experience. But travel looks a little different when you’re packing for two. Whether you are planning a “babymoon” before the sleepless nights arrive or just heading home for the holidays, here is everything you need to know to travel safely and comfortably.
1. The Safety Check: When to Travel While Pregnant
Before you book those tickets, first and foremost, it is always best to check in with your midwife or GP. Generally speaking, guidance from trusted sources like the NHS suggests that for most uncomplicated pregnancies, travel is safe.
- The Sweet Spot: The golden window to travel while pregnant is usually the second trimester (14–28 weeks). By this time, the morning sickness has often subsided. Additionally, your energy is back, and you aren’t yet at the stage where moving around feels like a marathon.
- Flying: You can typically fly up to 37 weeks (or 32 weeks if you are carrying twins), but always check your specific airline’s policy. For example, after 28 weeks, many airlines require a letter from your doctor or midwife confirming you are fit to fly.
- Destinations: If you are travelling abroad, the World Health Organisation (WHO) advises checking for specific risks like the Zika virus or Malaria, which can be dangerous during pregnancy. Stick to safe zones to keep your mind at ease.
Top Tip: Always carry your maternity notes (handheld notes) with you in your hand luggage. If you need medical attention away from home, these are vital for doctors to understand your history.
2. Beat the Swell: Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)
Unfortunately, pregnancy naturally increases the risk of DVT (blood clots). Consequently, sitting still for long periods—whether in a car, train, or plane—adds to that risk. To travel while pregnant safely, the NHS recommends that on journeys longer than 4 hours, you should:
- Drink plenty of water.
- Move around every 30 minutes (aisle seats are your best friend!).
- Wear compression stockings.
Amazon Find: You don’t have to settle for the ugly hospital-beige ones! Specifically, you can find breathable, comfortable Maternity Compression Socks on Amazon that look just like normal socks but keep your circulation flowing.
If you ever need personalised help choosing a craft kit for your trip or have any concerns, feel free to get in touch here— I’m always happy to help.
3. Comfort Hacks for Travel While Pregnant
Let’s be honest, getting comfortable with a bump can be a challenge. Therefore, here are a few essentials to pack in your carry–on:
- A Pregnancy Travel Pillow: You don’t need to lug your giant body pillow through the airport. Instead, look for a Wedge Pregnancy Pillow to use while you’re not back at home.
It’s also possible to look for a small inflatable lumbar support on Amazon. You can use a Portable Air inflator/deflator to help make it faster. The small inflatable lumbar support fits in your bag and saves your back on those uncomfortable plane seats.
- Snacks, Snacks, Snacks: Low blood sugar can hit hard and fast. For this reason, you should pack protein-rich snacks like nuts or oat bars.
- Anti-Nausea Bands: If you are still feeling a bit queasy (or if motion sickness is a trigger), Acupressure Wristbands are a drug–free way to take the edge off.
4. The Importance of “Active Relaxation”
Once you arrive, the goal is to relax. However, for many of us, “relaxing” doesn’t mean just staring at a wall—that can sometimes just leave room for anxiety to creep in!
Many mums–to–be find that keeping their hands busy helps calm the mind, a phenomenon known as “flow state.” This is where nesting meets travel.
If you are looking for the perfect screen–free activity for your flight, train ride, or quiet evenings in the hotel, check out this freebie that I saved for you here! Have access to a full tutorial on how to create a crochet basket. This basket will be very useful for:
- Keeping diapers stocked near the changing table, thus making diaper changes easier;
- Storing cotton swabs, cotton balls, creams, and talcum powder for after bath time;
- In addition, having shampoo, conditioner, and soap on hand for bath time;
- Storing small baby items needed for daily use in an organised way.
Imagine sitting by a fire in your holiday cottage, feet up, stitching a keepsake for your little one. It’s the ultimate self–care moment.
👇 Subscribe below to get instant access to your Crochet Basket Tutorial.
If you enjoy gentle, activities, you’ll love the other cosy ideas and pregnancy–friendly projects on the Love & Stitch Kits Blog.
Final Thoughts
To conclude, choosing to travel while pregnant is not only possible; it can be a wonderful way to bond with your partner and enjoy some peace before the baby arrives. Just listen to your body, prioritise your comfort, and don’t forget to pack a little creativity for the journey.
Safe travels and happy stitching!
If you’re looking for a special keepsake for your little one go check my Etsy store. I’m sure you’ll find something realy meaninfull.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. I am not a medical professional; please consult your GP or midwife before making travel plans.
