Where To Go On Holiday When Pregnant

Planning a holiday while expecting? There’s nothing wrong with wanting to enjoy one last getaway before your little one arrives. If this sounds like you, here’s where to go on holiday when pregnant and all the things you need to know before you set off:

1. Babymoon at a Relaxing Resort

A babymoon at a luxury resort is ideal for expecting parents. Places like Maldives, Hawaii, and the Florida Keys offer stunning views, serene beaches, and top-notch spas. These destinations allow you to unwind without extensive planning. Relaxing by the pool, enjoying mocktails, and reading your favorite book are great ways to recharge. For the best experience, look for resorts with prenatal massages, healthy dining options, and cozy accommodations.

If you’re part of the 16% of Americans who prefer to travel solo, do your due diligence when choosing a resort. Check reviews and testimonials to find one in a destination known for their safety and friendliness. Most importantly, share your travel information with a trusted friend or family so it’s easier to check up on you after you leave home.

2. Scenic Countryside Retreats

If you prefer tranquillity, a countryside escape might be what you need. The Cotswolds in England, Napa Valley in California, or Tuscany in Italy offer picturesque views, cozy stays, and opportunities to explore at your own pace.

You can enjoy walks in nature, indulge in farm-to-table meals, and soak in the charm of small village cultures. This kind of trip is gentle on your energy levels while still offering memorable experiences.

3. Urban Getaways for Culture and Convenience

For those who love exploring cities, consider urban settings like Paris, Barcelona, or New York City. These metropolises offer endless cultural and social activities. A significant advantage of urban holidays is easy access to high-quality medical facilities, a wide range of cuisine, and versatile entertainment options.

However, you’ll want to balance sightseeing with plenty of rest to avoid burning out. Walking long distances can be tiring, so plan breaks and use public transport or taxis whenever possible.

4. Tropical Escapes for Vitamin D

Dreaming of warm sands and turquoise waters? Tropical destinations like the Caribbean, Bali, or Australia’s Whitsundays are fantastic choices. Vitamin D from sunlight can boost your mood and energy, but be mindful of hydration and sun protection.

If you plan to take your trip during your first trimester, you’ll be glad to know that exposure to sunlight in the first three months lowers the occurrence of premature birth.

5. Babymoons with a Twist: Spa and Wellness Getaways

For a unique holiday, choose wellness resorts inclined toward prenatal care and nourishment. Destinations like Sedona, Arizona, Ubud in Bali or Arosa in Switzerland specialize in yoga, meditation, and healthy living programs.

These retreats help you connect with your body and prepare mentally for the journey ahead.

6. Historical and Scenic Train Journeys

If you love scenic views but want to avoid the hassle of flying, consider a train journey. Routes like the Rocky Mountaineer in Canada, Orient Express in Europe, or California Zephyr in the U.S. take the crown when it comes to delivering luxury with breathtaking landscapes.

Train travel is comfortable, allows for movement, and eliminates airport stress. Plus, you'll have plenty of time to relax (read, nap) and enjoy the journey.

7. Cruises for All-in-One Convenience

Cruises offer the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure. Onboard, you can enjoy spa treatments, swimming pools, and entertainment — all without needing to pack and unpack. Choose routes that include short excursions so you can explore and mingle, like those in the Mediterranean, Caribbean, or Alaskan coast. However, it’s best to check with your doctor before booking a cruise, as some restrict travel for late-stage pregnancies.

8. Staycations and Short Road Trips

If traveling far feels overwhelming, explore nearby destinations. A staycation at a luxury hotel in your city or a short road trip to a neighboring town can be equally rejuvenating.

Enjoy spa treatments, scenic drives, or quaint bed-and-breakfasts without the stress of long-haul travel. These trips are also budget-friendly and easier to plan at the last minute.

Things to Consider Before Choosing Where To Go On Holiday When Pregnant:

Before you even start looking at mommy-friendly holiday packages, keep these factors in mind:

• Travel restrictions: Some airlines restrict travel or require you to have a clearance letter after 36 weeks of pregnancy. Always check with your airline and prenatal care provider before booking flights to avoid inconveniences.
• Medical facilities: Choose destinations with reliable healthcare options and have them handy if needed.
• Mode of travel: Opt for transportation with the least travel times or layovers to reduce fatigue — unless you’re on a cruise, of course.
• Climate comfort: You’ll want to avoid places with drastic weather conditions. Overly hot, cold, or high-altitude locations could strain your body and stress your unborn baby.
• Activities: Prioritize destinations with gentle, rejuvenating activities like swimming, walking,g or spa treatments to keep you comfortable and relaxed.
• Travel insurance: Consider purchasing trip insurance. It typically costs around 5% of your total travel costs and provides peace of mind if plans need to change unexpectedly.

Where to Avoid

For your safety and that of your unborn child, some destinations require extra consideration or should be bypassed entirely. These include:

• Areas with Zika virus threats like Jamaica, Brazil, Costa Rica, and Vietnam. An infection increases the chance of your baby being born with defects that diminish the quality of life.
• Regions with limited medical facilities or services, including those that don’t recognize your insurance coverage.
• Destinations requiring lengthy transit times.
• Places with extreme temperatures.
• Areas requiring extensive vaccinations.

When is the Best Time to Take a Trip While Pregnant?

The second trimester (weeks 14-26) is widely considered the ideal time for pregnancy travel. During these weeks, you’ll likely experience a welcome relief from morning sickness and higher energy levels, making exploration more enjoyable.

This period also typically carries a lower risk of pregnancy complications, and moving around is significantly more comfortable than in the later stages of pregnancy.

Travel Tips for Pregnant Holidaymakers

After you narrow down where you’re going and have made all the necessary bookings, it’s time to plan your trip. Just remember to:

• Pack smart: Bring essentials like prenatal vitamins, comfortable clothes, and travel-sized maternity pillows.
• Stay active during travel: Avoid sitting continuously for over 10 hours as this predisposes you to develop blood clots in the legs, a condition called deep vein
  thrombosis (DVT). So, walk around every few hours to reduce your susceptibility to travel-associated DVT.
• Eat healthy: Look for restaurants with pregnancy-safe food options and know what you can and cannot eat. Nothing takes the fun out of a vacation like food poisoning or explosive diarrhea (yikes!). While at it, you’ll also want to steer clear of labor-inducing foods like unripe papaya and pineapples. If you didn’t know, consuming just six dates a day could speed up your delivery date.
• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water, especially if you’re planning to visit warm climates. This means taking between 8 and 12 cups every day. Carry a reusable water bottle to maintain essential hydration levels on the go.
• Know your limits: Avoid high-risk activities like scuba diving or extreme hiking. Also, consider properties with elevators and modern amenities and book accommodations close to main attractions to minimize walking.

Your documentation needs special attention when traveling while pregnant. Carry a doctor’s note clearing you for travel as well as your physician’s contact information, copies of important medical records, and comprehensive insurance information. Go the extra mile, research, and create a list of local hospitals and medical facilities at your destination, including their contact information and directions — just in case.

A little planning goes a long way in creating a stress-free experience.

Take a Trip and Create Lasting Memories

Traveling while pregnant can be a wonderful experience when properly planned. This means choosing destinations with the right balance of relaxation, safety, and medical accessibility.

After all, this is a special time, and your holiday should reflect that. Whether you’re soaking up the sun, exploring vibrant cities, or indulging in spa treatments; the idea is to plan a trip that feels right for you.

Before finalizing any travel plans, consult with your healthcare provider and prioritize your comfort and well-being before and during the vacation.

Take it slow, enjoy the journey, and cherish this moment before your family grows.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Beth Rush is the Managing Editor at Body+Mind

Cover Image by Luan Gonçalves