Travelling whilst pregnant:
A guide for mothers to be

Pregnant and planning a holiday? You and your bump can travel safe and happy with just a little bit of extra research before you book. With the rise of the so called ‘babymoon’, more and more mothers are investing in a much needed break and travelling whilst pregnant. Our travel guide for mothers-to-be considers when and where to go, how to fly in comfort and what your travel insurance policy should cover. Read on for your ultimate guide to babymooning!

• Most mothers can travel happily and safely while pregnant, although it is best to check with your GP before you book your holiday.
  
• Mid-term is generally the preferable time to take your trip, as the sickness and fatigue of earlier pregnancy should (hopefully) have subsided, and the baby is at less risk during the second trimester.
  
• It’s always best to check with your carrier to find out their policy on how far in to your pregnancy they will let you travel. Different restriction will be in place depending on whether you choose travel by plane, boat or coach.                                                   

• Research your destination on the Foreign and Commonwealth website for advice on the healthcare available in the country you’re travelling to.
  
• Avoid places where vaccinations are required prior to travel – use the Fit For Travel website to check before your book.
  
• If something goes wrong whilst you are away, it’s always best to contact your travel insurance company for assistance straight away. Your insurer should offer a 24/7 medical assistance service and be able to make sure you receive the most appropriate advice depending on your individual circumstances.

• Be sure to drink plenty of water as flying is dehydrating.
  
• Wear flight socks or stockings, and move around the cabin regularly to reduce the risks of blood clotting.
  
• After the 28th week of pregnancy, most airlines will request that you provide a letter from your midwife or GP advising that you are healthy and confirming your delivery date.
  
• Most airlines will not allow you to travel after 36 weeks.
  
• Talk to your GP or midwife before travelling if you have any concerns or have had any prior complications.

• Very high altitudes (of 3000 metres or above) – save Mount Kilimanjaro for another trip!                                
• Very hot or humid countries. Use www.holiday-weather.com to check the weather averages for your destination before you travel.
• Holidays that require a large amount of travel from place to place. Although a multi-stop trip may sound great in theory, spending six hours on a coach to get from one destination to another may not be the most comfortable experience during pregnancy.
• Adventure activities that may raise your heart rate – even if you’re a born adrenaline seeker, leave the banana boating, mountain biking and jet skiing until after the baby is born

Never travel without travel insurance. It’s never worth the potential cost, risk and stress - especially when you’re carrying a baby. Before booking your holiday and taking out a travel insurance policy when pregnant, the best advice is to:
      

• always consult with your doctor beforehand
  
• check your airline, ferry operator or tour companies policy on pregnant travellers
  
• get in touch with your preferred travel insurance provider if you are unsure about your cover
  

Looking for travel insurance to cover your babymoon? Allianz Assistance offer a range of cover levels, with experts on the end of the phone 247 to help you if you run into any problems.