Packing can be a struggle at the best of times, but there’s even more to think about when you’re pregnant.
What do you need? What should you avoid? Do you need to buy anything especially?
I have a list to take the hassle out of planning, so you can concentrate on having a good time and getting some well-deserved time to relax. Here’s a list of what to pack (and what not to pack) for your trip when you’re pregnant.
A four-wheeled suitcase. Light and easy to wheel around, a four-wheeled suitcase will prevent any luggage-induced aches and pains.
Any kind of bag you need to carry or lift.
Even if your pregnancy has been smooth-sailing so far, it’s important to see your doctor before you travel, especially if you’re heading abroad.
They’ll be able to offer advice, answer any questions you might have, and write a letter confirming your due date and clearing you to travel. This is especially important if you’ll be flying, because airline staff have the right to stop you from boarding the plane if they think you’ll put yourself or others at risk.
Your maternity notes are a record of your pregnancy. They’re written in a way which can be understood by medical professionals around the world, so if you do need to see a doctor while you’re away, they’ll quickly be up to speed with what’s going on.
Make sure it covers your pregnancy in addition to any pre-existing medical conditions. Travel insurance policies become invalidated if you need to claim for something you haven’t declared, leaving you with hefty bills to pay. It’s not worth taking the risk.
Note down the contact details, directions, and a few words of the local language if English isn’t widely spoken. If you do need to rush off and see a doctor, the last thing you want to be doing is finding all this out.
Perhaps this goes without saying, but it’s worth double checking before you go!
Make sure it’s empty when you get to the airport and refill it once you’re through security. Stick to bottled water if you’re not sure about the quality of the tap water at your destination.
Carry packets of wholemeal crackers, mixes of nuts and seeds, cereal bars and pots of fresh fruit in your hand luggage. All of these snacks are nutritious, curbing any hunger pangs and giving you plenty of energy. Regular snacking can also help with morning sickness.
Any food which could spoil while you’re in transit. It’s worth checking the NHS website for a full list of foods which are unsuitable during pregnancy.
T-shirts, skirts and dresses in breathable fabrics will keep you cool and comfortable in hot weather. Bring a jacket and a jumper in case the evenings are cooler, and don’t forget swimwear! Holidaysafe recommend swimming for pregnant women, since the weightlessness of the water takes strain away from your body.
You can either size up or choose maternity swimwear, which has extra space to accommodate your growing bump.
Sturdy sandals will keep your feet supported and feeling fresh in the heat.
Going somewhere cooler? Trainers or boots are ideal, especially if they’re easy to slip on or off.
These will offer extra protection from the sun.
You have a higher chance of getting DVT when you’re pregnant, especially if your flight is on the longer side. Flight socks will reduce swelling with minimal fuss.
When baby has actually arrived you may need some slightly different advise. Help on how to fly with a baby can be found on Suburban mum. Flying with a baby is a whole different thing and quite possibly harder then flying when pregnant.
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