What to Pack for Pregnancy Travel
Travelling while pregnant takes a little extra planning, but with the right bits packed you can relax and enjoy your trip. The single most important item is your maternity notes (your handheld pregnancy record) — pack these first, because if you need any medical care while you are away, they tell staff exactly where you are up to in your pregnancy. After that, think about comfort, hydration, and anything that helps with common symptoms like nausea, swelling, and tiredness.
Table of Contents
Essentials
Pack these whether you are heading away for a night or a fortnight:- Your maternity notes (and a photo of them on your phone as a backup)
- Any medications you take regularly, plus your prenatal vitamins
- Anti-sickness remedies that work for you, such as ginger sweets or acupressure bands
- Compression socks for any long journey, to help with swelling and circulation
- Plain snacks for nausea — crackers, oatcakes, plain biscuits
- A refillable water bottle so you can keep your fluids up
- Pregnancy-safe sunscreen and a sun hat if you are heading somewhere warm
- Comfortable, supportive shoes and loose, breathable clothing
- Your EHIC/GHIC card or travel insurance documents if going abroad
If you are travelling outside the UK, check before you book whether your destination has any health risks (such as Zika) and arrange travel insurance that specifically covers pregnancy and your due date. Your midwife or GP can advise on any vaccinations or precautions.
Comfort and Practical Tips
Long periods of sitting still raise the risk of blood clots in pregnancy, so on any journey over a few hours, get up and move, stretch your legs, and keep sipping water. Wear your compression socks and avoid crossing your legs for long stretches.Pace yourself: plan rest stops, don't over-schedule your days, and keep snacks within reach to steady blood-sugar dips that can make nausea worse. Carry your maternity notes in your hand luggage rather than a checked bag, so they are always with you. If you are flying, most airlines allow travel up to around 36 weeks (or about 32 weeks for twins), but rules vary and many ask for a letter from your midwife or GP later in pregnancy — always check your airline's policy before booking.
It is normal to feel a bit more tired or queasy when travelling. Seek medical advice promptly if you have bleeding, strong or regular tummy cramps, severe headache, a swollen or painful calf, breathlessness, reduced baby movements (in later pregnancy), or any symptom that worries you. If you are away from home and something feels seriously wrong, call 111 for advice or 999 in an emergency.
FAQ
### Should I take my maternity notes when travelling?Yes, always take your maternity notes when travelling. If you need medical care while away, they give staff essential information about your pregnancy. Keep them in your hand luggage and save a photo on your phone as a backup.
When should I stop travelling during pregnancy?
There is no single cut-off, as it depends on your health and how your pregnancy is progressing. Many people travel comfortably into the third trimester, but airlines set their own limits (often around 36 weeks) and long trips become less comfortable later on. If you have any pregnancy complications, ask your midwife or GP before booking.
Is it safe to fly while pregnant?
Flying is generally considered safe in an uncomplicated pregnancy. To lower the small risk of blood clots, wear compression socks, move around the cabin, and drink plenty of water. Check your airline's policy and your travel insurance, and speak to your midwife if you have any concerns.
If you have any concerns about travelling, speak to your midwife or GP for advice tailored to your pregnancy.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.
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