Travelling in the Third Trimester: How to Cope with a Pregnancy While Abroad

Travel may not be on your mind as you start to go through the final stretch of your pregnancy, but many women are still able to take a trip before their baby arrives, if they haven’t had any underlying complications and aren’t having a multiple birth. Just remember air travel is not recommended — and in many cases, not permitted — after 36 weeks.

So what do you need to do if you decide to go on holiday during this time? It’s all about taking extra precautions. Here are seven ways pregnant women can cope while abroad during their third trimester.

1. Pick your holiday carefully

The planning should start well in advance and it pays to put a lot of thought into the type of holiday you book. Strenuous activities and lots of walking are best avoided — choose relaxed spa days and chilled-out beach trips over sightseeing and adventure, and get the chilled-out getaway you deserve.

2. Don’t travel too far from home

Many women feel more comfortable knowing they can get to their doctor quickly during the third trimester, so bear this in mind when you’re deciding on a destination and keep flight times under two or three hours max. You might even decide to visit somewhere you can reach by train or car and get that holiday feeling without having to hop on a plane.

3. Go to countries with excellent medical care

In the event you need to see a doctor, you’ll want to be assured that you’re getting the best care possible, which is why Holidaysafe recommend visiting countries which have high-quality medical facilities.

Make sure you know where the nearest hospital is before you travel — it’ll put your mind at ease, meaning you can really relax, and it saves time when you need it most.

4. Don’t come home too late

There will come a point when you won’t want to travel anymore due to exhaustion. Try and plan your trip for the earlier weeks of the third trimester (28–32). That way, you’ll still be able to enjoy a holiday and get home within good time of your due date.

5. Choose your seat on the plane or train

You’ll be more tired during the third trimester and will also get uncomfortable much quicker. Babymoon Guide suggests selecting an aisle seat so you can move about (and reach the toilet) when you need to, and if you can reserve a seat with extra room then that’s even better since it gives you room to stretch. (Just don’t book the seat near the emergency exit if you’re on a plane; pregnant women aren’t allowed to open it.)