Thanksgiving is coming up, and odds are you’re already planning a trip to see the fam. But this year is different…because this year you’re expecting!

 

 

Traveling while pregnant requires a good bit of planning ahead to account for your overly active bladder, on-and-off nausea, and sudden leg cramps. We want to take some of the pressure off, so we’ve compiled a list of tips that can make pregnancy travel less stressful and more comfortable. 

1. Insure yourself

   Be sure to sign up for reliable travel insurance in case a pregnancy complication requires you to change your plans. If you’re traveling far, have the name of a local OB/GYN on hand, just in case. And be sure to determine where the nearest hospital is located. A little research goes a long way!

2. Bring a Copy of Your Medical Records

   Speaking of OB/GYN and hospitals, always bring along a copy of your prenatal records and medical notes. If you need treatment from a local doctor during your trip, your records will be vital in helping them understand the circumstances of your pregnancy.

3. Pack a pregnancy survival kit

   Take enough prenatal vitamins to last the trip and a medication for traveler’s stomach (recommended by your practitioner) if you suffer from motion sickness. If pregnancy stuffiness plagues you, throw some nasal strips in your carry-on. You’ll be amazed at how well they open up your nostrils and allow in more air. Side note: pass on the jet lag remedies, such as melatonin, that aren’t approved by your practitioner.

4. Choose the Right Luggage

   Don’t forget to bring luggage that’s easy to move around from place to place – luggage with wheels is a must! Do your best to pack light so you don’t have to lug around a heavy suitcase; if you need help lifting your carry-on overhead, don’t be afraid to ask for help!

5. Pick your seat strategically

   Everyone loves the aisle seat, right? Well, you’ve got a good reason to get one! (The best reason, we think.) Opt for – and don’t be afraid to ask for – the aisle spot to make frequent bathroom trips easier on you and your seatmate, and to ensure you have plenty of room to move. If your seat is not reserved, ask for pre-boarding. If you’re driving, sit in the front to lessen your chances of experiencing motion sickness. Ain’t nobody got time for that.

6. Stand up and stretch

   Pregnant women are at higher risk for developing blood clots, so it’s important to avoid sitting still for long periods of time. If you’re flying, get up every now and then to walk the aisles. And even while you’re seated, flex and point your toes as often as you can. Same for driving: take frequent breaks to get out of the car and walk/stretch. You can stretch in the car too. Any movement counts!

7. Drink up

   Staying hydrated can help prevent swelling of your hands, legs, and feet. Drinking water can also help prevent fatigue and reduce pregnancy-stuffiness symptoms. It’s essential for anybody to drink plenty of water at all times, but it’s especially important for expecting mamas during travel.

8. Pack healthy snacks

   Have fun eating while you’re away! You’re on vacation, after all (and for Thanksgiving, too!). But also try to eat regularly and well. You can combat pregnancy travel queasies by eating small amounts frequently throughout the day.

9. Dress Comfy

   Planes, trains, and automobiles become very uncomfortable very quickly. Dress in loose and flowy clothes with layers, and consider investing in some compression stockings to boost circulation in your legs. In order to achieve maximum comfort, pack a pillow in your carry-on; try wedge pregnancy and lumbar pillows! Bonus: Bring an eye-mask so you can get some good shut-eye.

10. Prep for Germs And Nausea

    You’re going to want to pack a gentle hand sanitizer and plenty of wipes. If you foresee yourself feeling nauseas, bring some bags of mint tea and ask the flight attendant to steep them and/or try some ginger candies, which can help settle your stomach.

Check these off your list, sit back, and enjoy the ride!