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Travel and Pregnancy
Rest and relaxation are an essential part of any healthy pregnancy, so it makes sense to treat
yourself to a well-earned summer holiday! Being pregnant doesn't mean you're unable to travel but
you do need to be extra careful and it's worth doing some homework on your destination before
you set off.
If you're flexible about when you travel, the second trimester (weeks 14 - 27) is probably the
best time. Morning sickness will hopefully be behind you and the chance of miscarriage is lower at
this stage. If possible, avoid travelling abroad in early pregnancy – try to wait until routine
blood tests and scans have been completed.
Flying while Pregnant
Before going on holiday, it's a good idea to talk to your doctor about flying. It's also important
that you check with your airline too, as most carriers have strict policies concerning pregnant
travellers. Once you are around 28 weeks, you will probably be asked to produce a letter from a
medical practitioner that states you're fit to fly.
Tips to Stay Comfortable while Flying:
- Request a bulkhead or aisle seat so you'll have more room
- Regular strolls up and down the aisle will keep your blood circulating
- Simple stretches will prevent cramp
- Rotate your ankles to help reduce any swelling
- Avoid fizzy drinks as they can make you feel bloated and uncomfortable
- Combat humidity and dehydration by drinking water before and during the flight
For more advice on flying and travel insurance during pregnancy,
click here.
Car Travel during Pregnancy
Car travel is a
great alternative to flying if you're in the later stages of pregnancy.
The normal rules of car travel still apply; make sure someone knows where you are going and
when you're due to arrive. It's a good idea to plan your journey to avoid rush hour and make sure
you stop regularly for toilet breaks. If you start to develop backache or cramp, pull over so
that you can stretch your legs.
Try to avoid travelling alone as driving with a companion means you can relax and take a break
if you're tired. Remember to take a small
pillow
or rolled-up towel with you. Placing it in the small
of your back will help reduce the discomfort that comes from sitting in one position for prolonged
periods of time. Before you head off, it's a good idea to join a breakdown organisation (if you're
not already a member) and always carry a mobile phone.
Never travel in a car without wearing
a seatbelt,
even on short journeys. A seatbelt will help protect you and your baby in the event of an accident. Some women worry that wearing a seatbelt could
harm their unborn child but this isn't the case if the seatbelt is worn correctly.
Click here for
advice on how to wear a seatbelt during pregnancy.
Travelling with Babies and Toddlers
Going on a trip with your baby or toddler can be a fantastic experience but you'll need to plan
well in advance.
It's a good idea to use a bag that has a waterproof lining in case of breakages or spills and a
bag with a shoulder strap
will be easier to carry. It's a good idea to set aside a space in
the nursery or your bedroom where you can stack items when you think of them. Remember to look after
yourself, as well as baby while travelling - always pack a drink and energy-boosting snack.
Packing for your Child
Knowing what to pack for your baby or toddler can be difficult. After all, you can't predict
which toy your baby is going to prefer or exactly what the weather will be like next week!
Don't worry - forgetting something isn't the end of the world but hopefully these handy checklists
will help you to remember the 'essentials'!
Instead of packing an extra bag for hand luggage, simply take your baby's
changing bag
as this will mean that everything you need to feed and change your baby is close by.
Click here
for a helpful Hand Luggage Checklist.
Believe it or not, babies are actually fairly low-maintenance travellers because they tend to
sleep most of the time but unfortunately for parents - they don't travel light! There's so much to
remember when packing for your child, so
click here for efficient packing tips and a handy checklist!
On the Road with Kids
It's a good idea to try and stick to your child's regular sleeping and feeding routine, especially
if it's their first long car trip. Even though it may suit you to take off first thing in the morning,
it may be better to be on the road while your child is having their afternoon nap.
Your child should always be strapped into a properly installed baby seat; it's not advisable to
hold your child in your arms or on your lap. Children should always be wearing a seatbelt and are often
more willing to do so if they see mum and dad wearing one too!
The car seat should be comfortable and it's a good idea to position the seat so that your child is
protected from the sun and glare. To make things easier for you, dress your
baby in easy-change clothes that
are comfortable to sleep in as well.
A great way to alleviate your child's boredom on a long trip is to provide loads of distractions!
Play some games, bring along a
few toys,
stop for a picnic, tell a story and listen to their
favourite CD!
Car Journey Checklist
As well as your usual changing bag, the following items are very handy when travelling by car
with your baby:
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Adventure Sling £49.99
Caboodle Active Bag £24.99
Back Seat Mirror £12.99
Safety Bump Belt £19.99
Prince Lionheart Travel Bottle Warmer £14.99
Pop-Up Baby Bed £34.99
Pop Up Travel Cot £49.99
Baby On Board Car £4.99
Personalised Baby Passport Covers £9.99