Travel During Pregnancy: Safety & Tips For Flights, Cars, Trains & Cruises

Travelling is one of the most enriching experiences as it offers a chance to explore new destinations, take some time off from our busy schedules and relax while creating evergreen memories. While travelling involves planning and preparation for everyone, travelling during pregnancy requires extra preparation and attention to detail. Your top priority for travelling while pregnant should be ensuring your safety and the well-being of the baby while still being comfortable and enjoying to the fullest.  

Several factors can affect travel during your pregnancy. Here are some things you should consider to ensure you have a safe travel: 

• Your pregnancy stage when the trip is planned 

• Whether there have been any complications during the pregnancy 

• The type of travel being considered during pregnancy; car, rail, plane 

• The distance that the travel will take you from home.  

• Travel Insurance 

If you love to travel but are thinking, “Is it safe to travel during pregnancy?”, then this blog is a must-read for you. In this blog, we will consider the above factors and provide you with all the information you need to know about travel during pregnancy. 

Travelling by car while pregnant 

Travelling by car during pregnancy can be easy and flexible since it allows you to take a break whenever needed and extend your schedule as per your liking. This is likely one of the most comfortable means of getting around during pregnancy. However, there are certain things to keep in mind, especially while travelling during the first trimester by car. Remember to always fasten your seat belt. Place the lap belt portion under your abdomen and position the shoulder harness between your breasts. 

Let’s understand the car travel implications at different stages of pregnancy. 

• Travelling by car during 1st trimester 

Travelling during pregnancy's first trimester by care is usually considered safe, although it can be more tiring than usual. If you usually experience nausea, fatigue or motion sickness while travelling in a car, you may face challenges while travelling during the first trimester by car. This risk of miscarriage is also the highest during these months.  

 It is, therefore, advisable to avoid long journeys while travelling during pregnancy's first trimester by car. If travelling is unavoidable, make sure you take frequent stops and get out of the car to stretch.  

• Travelling by car during 2nd trimester 

The second trimester is the time in your pregnancy is the time you would probably feel the best and have the most energy.  This is a great time for a trip. In fact, holidaying, or taking a ‘babymoon' with your partner during this period might be an ideal chance to spend some fun time alone together before the baby arrives!  If you choose to travel during your second trimester, especially by plane, you may want to keep the travel time to less than 4 hours to prevent the risk of blood clots and leg swelling.   

• Travelling by car during 3rd trimester 

Travel in the third trimester of pregnancy may be uncomfortable and carries a higher risk since you could go into labour many miles away from your own healthcare providers and hospital. Find out signs of labour here.  During your third trimester, you can safely travel by car for a few hours but it is important to take breaks, at least every two hours. You can get out of the car, stretch and walk around for a little while to maintain the blood flow in your legs.   

Flying/air travel during pregnancy 

Some airlines do not let women fly during the last weeks of pregnancy without a doctor's letter of permission. It all depends on flight distance (domestic or international) and the airline you are flying with. Quite often that letter must be written within 72 hours of flight time.  Since it can be hard for the airline to tell how pregnant you are, it is a good idea to consult your healthcare provider about any upcoming air travel while pregnant.  Be sure to ask for a permission note and carry it with you to avoid any challenges at the airport, especially if travelling internationally.  Flying shouldn't cause any problems in your first two trimesters of pregnancy, be sure to: 

• Plan your schedule so that you're not rushed and have plenty of time between connecting flights. 

• Request an aisle seat so that you have a little more room and can easily get to the toilet as needed. 

• Walk up and down the aisle every hour or so to promote circulation in your legs. 

• While sitting, flex your feet towards your face and make circles with your feet. 

• Wearing support tights or flight socks also stimulates circulation in your legs when you have to sit for long periods. 

• Drink lots of water or juice to stay well hydrated. 

 If you have to travel out of the country, it is important to take copies of your prescriptions for medication, in case they get misplaced. Be sure that your immunisations are up to date before planning a trip to countries where vaccinations are necessary and remember, some vaccines may not be safe to update during pregnancy.  Be aware that changes in climate or altitude and types of food could cause you more discomfort when you're pregnant. Limit exertion for a couple of days after your arrival at your destination, particularly if the climate is hot or the altitude is high; this will allow your body to adjust to these changes.  In addition to the above considerations, always consult your healthcare provider before planning a trip during pregnancy, particularly if you'll be experiencing changes in altitude. They may be able to give you a medical contact in the area of your destination, in case you need to see a physician while you're away from home.  

Train travel during pregnancy 

Train travel during pregnancy is an ideal way to travel during pregnancy, making it comfortable and convenient; especially during the second trimester. Train travel during pregnancy allows more space to move around as compared to cars or aeroplanes, which often reduces the risk of blood clotting. A seat that has extra legroom or a sleeper cabin for more comfort can be booked for longer rides. It's important to carry snacks and water to stay hydrated and well-nourished along the way. If morning sickness or motion sensitivity is a concern, consult your healthcare provider for safe remedies. Plan for frequent restroom breaks, as train facilities might be limited and may require you to walk a certain distance. With proper preparations and safety measures, train travel while pregnant can be a smooth and enjoyable experience during your pregnancy.  

Travelling by ship while pregnant 

Travel while pregnant by a large cruise ship should also pose no particular problems in the first two trimesters. Most cruise ships have medical personnel aboard should you need assistance. Nevertheless, here are a few tips that can come in handy:   

• If you're sensitive to motion, you might want to take medication to prevent motion sickness; ask your healthcare provider what would be safe to take during pregnancy.  

• Before booking your cruise, check the specific cruise line's pregnancy policy, as many have restrictions for those who are 24 weeks pregnant or more. 

• Pay attention to food safety on board—opt for freshly prepared meals and ensure you're staying hydrated. 

 How to prepare for a trip while pregnant: Dos and Don’ts 

• Do Discuss with Your Doctor 

Discuss your travel plans before a trip with your healthcare provider. They can inform you if it is safe to journey or not and will be in a better position to give you customised advice.  

• Do get vaccination status checked 

Check how complete your vaccinations are in conformity with the destination. Your healthcare provider or a travel doctor would be the right person for this evaluation.  

• Do Secure Travel Insurance 

Opt for travel insurance that includes pregnancy-related care. Ensure it covers medical emergencies, including potential hospital visits or extended stays.  

• Don’t Ignore Symptoms 

Stay vigilant for any unusual symptoms such as severe abdominal pain, bleeding or sudden swelling and seek medical assistance immediately if they occur.  

• Do Practice Food Safety 

Be safe regarding what you eat and drink and ensure that you do not catch any illnesses from food. Choose to get freshly cooked meals or have bottled water when the tap water does not feel safe.  

• Do Prepare for Emergencies 

Carry a list of local hospitals and healthcare providers in the destination. Have a small emergency kit with prenatal vitamins, prescription medications and basic first aid supply items ready with you. 

Conclusion: Is travelling safe during pregnancy? 

In conclusion, travelling while pregnant can be safe and rewarding, if proper precautions are taken. It is often ideal to travel during the second trimester, when the risks of complications are at their lowest levels, while energy levels are high. Always consult your health provider regarding your health circumstances being conducive for travel. Consider factors such as whether there will be medical facilities at the place you will be visiting and the mode of transport that may expose you to more dangers and avoid areas of risk. With these safety considerations, you can have a beautiful journey with your baby.