With summer in full swing, many people are excited to travel, hike, swim, and soak up the sun. Your summer adventures might look a little different if you’re expecting, but that doesn’t mean you have to stay home. Whether you’re going on a weekend road trip or an international flight, travel during pregnancy can still be safe and enjoyable with a little extra planning and care.

Is Travel Safe During Pregnancy?

For most women with low-risk pregnancies, travel is typically safe up until your third trimester. The best time to travel is often mid-pregnancy, between 14 and 28 weeks. By then, morning sickness has usually eased up, your energy has returned, and you can still move around comfortably.

However, some women might have certain conditions that make traveling riskier. These conditions can include a history of preterm labor, placenta previa, preeclampsia, and high-risk multiple pregnancies. Your provider can help determine whether travel is appropriate for your situation and how far you should be from medical care during your trip.

Talk to Your OBGYN Before You Go

Every pregnancy is unique, so always check with your OBGYN before booking your trip. If you’re traveling abroad, make sure you speak with your provider at least 4 to 6 weeks before your trip. During this pre-travel visit, you can:

• Review your travel plans and get guidance specific to your stage of pregnancy
• Discuss recommended travel vaccinations or medications, as well as ones you should avoid during pregnancy
• Learn about warning signs or symptoms that may require medical attention traveling

Smart Travel Tips

Whether you’re flying or driving, these travel tips can help you stay prepared, comfortable, and safe.

Before traveling:

• Check your insurance coverage and locate medical facilities in your travel destination before you go
• Ensure you have access to your MyChart or other patient portal
• Get a copy of your prenatal records and your doctor’s contact information
• If you’re planning to fly, check your airline’s pregnancy travel policies and restrictions before booking.

Pregnancy and long periods of sitting can increase the risk of blood clots, known as deep vein thrombosis (DVT), so it’s important to take preventive measures while traveling. Ask your provider if you need compression stockings, especially if you’re going on a longer journey.

While traveling:

• Stay hydrated and avoid caffeine
• Dress in loose, breathable clothing
• Move or stretch at least every two hours to reduce the risk of blood clots
• Wear your seatbelt correctly: lap belt under your belly, shoulder belt across your chest
• On a plane, keep your seatbelt fastened low and snug while seated
• Be mindful of local recommendations regarding drinking water, raw or undercooked foods, and food preparation practices.

Summer Activities: What’s Safe and What to Skip

Pregnancy doesn’t mean missing out –  it just means being more mindful and choosing activities that are safe, low-impact, and controlled.

Generally safe activities include:

• Swimming or floating in calm water
• Walking or light hiking
• Snorkeling or kayaking in calm water
• Prenatal yoga

Activities to avoid while pregnant include:

• Jet skiing, water skiing, or scuba diving
• Riding bicycles, ATVs, or motorcycles
• Amusement park rides, water slides, or zip lining
• Horseback riding or contact sports
• Skating, skateboarding, or rollerblading
• Saunas or hot tubs, due to overheating risks

If you’re unsure about a particular activity, always ask your doctor first.

Stay Cool and Hydrated

Pregnant people tend to feel warmer than usual thanks to increased blood flow and hormonal changes. That’s why staying cool and hydrated is essential.

Make water your best friend. Carry a refillable bottle and sip frequently, especially if you’re out in the heat. When outdoors:

• Wear breathable, sun-protective clothing and a wide-brimmed hat
• Use a pregnancy-safe sunscreen
• Avoid prolonged exposure during peak sun hours
• Rest in shaded areas and take frequent breaks

Avoid hot, stuffy environments or places with extreme temperature changes, which can raise your risk of overheating.

You’ve Got This

Being pregnant may change the way you travel, but it doesn’t mean pressing pause on fun. With a little preparation and guidance from your OBGYN, you can still enjoy new places and make summer memories, bump and all.

Before traveling, always talk to your OBGYN, who can help you understand any travel limitations, necessary precautions, and warning signs to watch for while you’re away from home.

For more information visit the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.