How to Travel by Plane While Pregnant

Pregnancy can make air travel awkward and uncomfortable, but there are some simple ways to make your trip more comfortable. Here are some ideas to make your flight more enjoyable.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Healthy snacks
• Comfortable shoes

1. Pack plenty of healthy, portable snacks for the plane.
2. Wear comfortable clothes and shoes that you can stretch and move in. If possible, remove or loosen your shoes.
3. Ask for a pillow and plan to rest when you can.
4. Use the restroom before boarding and as often as convenient while on the plane. Don't wait until you can't hold it any longer.
5. Keep your feet elevated when possible. It will help to reduce leg cramps and swelling.
6. Stand up and stretch every 30 minutes to keep your blood flowing.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are prone to varicose veins, try wearing maternity support panty hose.
• Make sure your doctor is aware of your travel plans. Obtain permission to leave the ground beforehand.
• Make sure the airline is aware of how far along you are in your pregnancy.
• Remember to keep hydrated. You may need to ask a flight attendant for a bottle of water if you weren't allowed to bring one on the plane.
• Eating snacks every 2 hours will stave off nausea.
• Avoid sandals that don't offer much arch support.