Travel bands can be an excellent way to relieve pregnancy related nausea, and they’ve taken a high-tech turn in recent years. Hypnotherapy podcasts can also be a calming way to reduce feelings of sickness, and are best listened to with noise-canceling headphones and an eye mask.
Hydrating skincare for expectant mothers
Pregnancy can present some interesting skincare dilemmas, with many people experiencing a change at some point across their nine months. Dry patches, oily T-zones, and acne outbreaks are all common complaints. To help skin stay hydrated when flying, there are many pregnancy-safe products out there which can help replenish and restore your skin’s natural barrier. La Mer The Mist Facial Spray is a particular favorite of mine—easy to apply, super lightweight, and long-lasting.
Travel pillows
During pregnancy, ligaments in the hips and back loosen in preparation for birth and this can often cause secondary strain across the top of the shoulders and neck which can be very uncomfortable for expectant mothers. If you’re traveling whilst pregnant, I recommend investing in a travel neck pillow, and packing your pregnancy pillow if you’re flying in a seat with a lie-flat bed.
Compression socks
“During pregnancy, you are at an increased risk of developing a blood clot,” Louise says. “That’s why compression socks, hydration, and movement—walking, stretching, and circling ankles—is recommended.”
Again, it’s not the most glamorous addition to your carry-on, but this footwear is important nonetheless. Try to stretch your legs every hour or so if possible, with a walk down the aisle or some lower leg exercises.
While packing a well-stocked carry-on will undoubtedly enhance your flying experience, there are other ways to ensure that you’re prepared for a relaxing trip. Here are my top three tips for flying while pregnant:
Food and beverage choices
Whilst it’s unlikely you’ll be able to see the full on-board menu in advance, it’s often a good idea to pre-select your meal genre if you’re having aversions or preferences during your pregnancy. Being able to rule out meat, dairy, or even opt for a lighter option may be preferable for some mothers-to-be. It could be worth packing a couple of extra snacks in your carry-on, just in case. I’ve been stashing ginger tea bags and plenty of dried fruit and nuts (dried banana chips are a particular craving of mine) to see me through.
The airport experience
Lounge access can not only be an enjoyable way to kick-off your vacation, it can also be a lifesaver for tired feet. Having access to a clean and comfortable restroom can also often be advantageous, so if your travel tickets don’t include a lounge as standard, it could be worth a pay-for-access option to give you peace of mind that you’ll be spending time in a calm and restful environment before or in between flights.
Your travel outfit
While a stylish airport look is always desirable, comfort should definitely reign supreme during this important period, since your body is already coping with so much. Activewear can provide comfort and support during long-haul travel, and there are plenty of options out there. I look to brands like Alo Yoga and Lululemon for pieces that satisfy both the style and comfort stakes.
