.pregnancy travel tips.

The joys of traveling while pregnant...

3D Toronto Canada sign in Nathan Phillips Square 

If you are like me and love to travel, you probably cannot imagine sacrificing travel unless you absolutely have to. I am currently 27 weeks pregnant and traveling by plane has a been a roller coaster. I am going to share a few tips that have worked for me and may be useful to you, even if you are not pregnant! I know some partners experience couvade syndrome, also known as sympathy pregnancy symptoms, so these tips may also work for your significant other. Let's scroll down!

Niagara Falls, Canada side

When to Travel

You should definitely speak to your doctor before you travel, especially if you have a high-risk pregnancy. Many airlines don't want you having your baby mid-flight, so most recommend traveling up 36 weeks. Still, do not be surprised if they ask for a doctor's note! Check with your doctor first regardless so that you have a peace of mind before making any travel plans. 

Temporary Disability

I'm sure many pregnant women do not consider themselves disabled, but you can take advantage of the fact that most airlines do! I did not do this until recently and wish I had during my first trimester! All you have to do is go up to the counter and let them know that you are pregnant so that they print out a pre-boarding pass. Pre-boarding allows you to pick a seat that will work best for you (most likely a seat close to the restroom). An aisle seat will allow you to stretch your legs and walk to the restroom without disrupting your neighbors. If you are on a short flight and want to sleep you can just get a window seat to rest your little pregnant brain.

Carry Snacks

During my first trimester I had horrible morning all-day sickness that also overlapped with my trip to New York and Niagara Falls, Canada. Traveling on an empty stomach only makes these symptoms worse, so make sure to always carry snacks with you. What worked for me were juice, bland snacks like unsalted crackers, pretzels and ginger candy. I also carried a small, empty bag with me just in case I had to vomit.

Swelling

With time, I've gotten very veiny and swollen! I am going to sound like a broken record, but drink a lot of water! Yes, you'll have to deal with that annoying urge to go to the bathroom constantly, but it is worth it! I also purchased these compression socks on Amazon to help with swelling and circulation. Unfortunately us pregnant women are more likely to get blood clots and compression stockings help maintain blood flow. Are they sexy, or cute? Heck no, but they work!

Hydrate & Pee

Again, hydration is key when traveling and I know I don't have to tell you to pee because chances are you already feel like you have to pee every 5 minutes. However, make sure you pee whenever you get a chance! Do not try to hold it in, please! Sorry if I sound like a mom talking to a toddler (I'm already on momma mode). I usually go before I walk to my gate, when I arrive to my gate, right before I board and as soon I step foot on the plane. TMI?

Avoid Direct Flights

I would honestly pick two 2.5-hour flights over a 5-hour direct flight and I recommend you do the same. Having a layover will allow you recharge, grab something to eat and relax for a bit before you continue on your journey. I strongly believe this helps avoid stress and chances are you will also save some money if you book a flight with a layover.

Ask for Help

Is your gate far, but need to get there quick? Try to see if your airport has those electric carts that zip around the airport, or simply ask for wheelchair assistance to your gate. Need help with your luggage? Ask a stranger to grab your stuff from the conveyor belt or the overhead bin. Feeling light-headed or queasy? Press the button to call the flight attendant over for some juice, or that handy vomit bag I carried with me everywhere. People are generally more than willing to help a pregnant woman.

Grand Central Station, New York City

New York City skyline

New York City Times Square

All of these pictures were taken when my morning sickness was at its worst and doing the most. Thinking about how I felt and looking at these images makes me feel a little sick all over again! I hope these tips help you prepare for your next trip. Please let me know if there is anything I missed and if you have any questions. I am more than happy to talk!

Much love,
-Perla Giselle