5 Tips for Traveling Safe and Happy While Pregnant
When you’re pregnant, it’s hard not to feel like your body isn’t your own anymore. But, just because you’re growing a tiny human, it doesn’t mean the world stops turning. Maybe your boss is sending you on one more business trip or, if you’re lucky, you and your bae are jetting off on an exotic babymoon. If you find yourself packing your bags during those nine months, try these five tips for traveling while pregnant.
1. Location, Location, Location. Your first instinct might be a tropical destination or exotic locale, but consider staying domestic and out of high-risk zones. You’ll be able to relax without stressing over the risk of Zika, unsafe food and drinking water and iffy medical care. If staying stateside doesn’t sound appealing to you, at the very least, choose a destination within a six-hour flight.
2. Timing is everything. According to the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, the best time to fly is during the second trimester — or between 14 and 28 weeks. Not only should you have more energy, but there’s less risk of a pregnancy-related medical emergency happening. You should consult with your physician before making any concrete plans.
3. Keep Moving. If you’re planning a road trip or hopping on a plane, it’s important to find ways to exercise those legs. To reduce your risk of blood clots, stand up, walk around and stretch at least every two hours. Don’t underestimate how uncomfortable cross-country flying while six months pregnant might be without getting up a few times. Pick an aisle seat — the nearby passengers will appreciate it.
4. Pack Snacks. Once the baby is born, you’ll never leave the house without packing snacks and drink again. You might as well start getting used to that now! To curb sudden cravings, pack an assortment of healthy snacks and be sure to drink plenty of water. If you’re flying, bring an empty water bottle with you. You can fill it up on the other side of security to avoid the inflated airport prices.
5. Have a backup plan. If you’re like most of us, you scoff at travel insurance like it’s just another gimmick. But, you may want to give it a second thought since you’re pregnant. If any unexpected complications force you to cancel or interrupt your trip, you won’t lose all your hard-earned dough.
How did you stay comfortable traveling during pregnancy? Tweet us @BritandCo.
(Photos via Getty)