Top tips for flying when you’re pregnant

Can I fly when I’m pregnant? This isn’t a silly question, and the good news is, in most cases, the answer is yes. NHS guidelines state that with proper preparation and precautions, most women can travel safely well into their pregnancy – hello, babymoon.  

A relaxing and romantic getaway for parents-to-be can be such an important time to reconnect before two become more. But there’s no place for stress on a babymoon – it’s a bump-y ride in the best sense.  

So, if you’re setting off somewhere with a baby on board, these top tips for flying during pregnancy are here to help settle any nerves – from what to wear on the plane to how to deal with that dreaded morning sickness… 

Before you book anything, you should have a chat with your doctor or midwife. Chances are, if you’ve had an uncomplicated pregnancy so far and you’re less than 28 weeks pregnant, they’ll be happy for you to travel. Even if you’re hoping to take off after this time, you just need a signed note from your doctor to say it’s safe to fly. The letter must be dated no earlier than 14 days prior to your departure – anything dated earlier will not be accepted. You should also take your medical notes or maternity book on holiday with you, as you might be asked to provide this information to your airline. 

Which trimester is the best time for flying? 

The second trimester (from 13 to 28 weeks) is widely considered to be the best time for air travel. In the first 12 weeks, you’re more likely to suffer from nausea and tiredness, and after 37 weeks, your chances of going into labour are naturally higher. Most airlines will only allow you to fly until the 36th week of your pregnancy – 32 if you’re carrying twins – and that includes the return leg. 

Where is the best destination to travel to when I’m pregnant? 

While there’s no right or wrong destination to go to when you’re pregnant, you should bear in mind flight times. Spain, for example, is a good option as it’s got year-round sun, and it only takes two to four hours to reach from Gatwick Airport. Anything over four hours tends to be considered mid or long-haul, which could be a little less comfortable. The weather might also sway you. If you’re heavily pregnant, you should probably avoid peak-season temperatures in some places – you’ll already feel warmer than usual, so don’t want to risk over-heating. Once you’ve booked, you can check what the weather’s doing in your destination with the First Choice app. 

How do I deal with morning and travel sickness when flying? 

If you’re worried about the combination of morning sickness and travel sickness, talk to your doctor. While many over-the-counter medications aren’t suitable for pregnant women, there may be something they can recommend or prescribe. It’s also worth trying things like anti-sickness acupressure bands, which can help alleviate feelings of nausea. 

Will my travel insurance cover me when I’m flying? 

Not all policies cover pregnant women and some only cover you up to a certain point of pregnancy, so make sure you notify your insurer before you travel. Look out for clauses including pregnancy related medical care during labour, premature birth and the cost of changing the date of your return if you go into early labour. Also, if you’re travelling to Europe, make sure you’ve got a valid Global Health Insurance Card before you go. If you think you’ve run out of time, don’t worry, you’ll still be covered as long as you’ve applied, even if you haven’t received your card yet. 

What should I wear on the plane? 

Get comfy. Something baggy or a flowy dress is ideal for travelling in – that way you won’t have a waistband digging into your stomach. Oh, and any skirt or dress has got to be an easy win for effortless access for what will probably be quite a few trips to the loo. Adjustable shoes like sandals are a good idea, too, as your feet may swell on the flight. Lastly, layer up. If you suffer from backache, a rolled-up jumper wedged in the small of your back can do wonders. 

How often should I stretch my legs? 

Aim to get up and walk around every 30 minutes if you can, just to keep your circulation in check. Pregnant women are at a slightly raised risk of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) and regular movement can help to prevent this. You might also want to invest in a pair of compression socks – particularly if you’re on a mid to long-haul flight – as they can reduce leg swelling. 

Where should I sit on the plane? 

This is definitely one to think ahead about. Reserve your seat in advance to make sure you have the access you need. An aisle seat is a good pick if you’re pregnant, as you can get up easily to go to the toilet or stretch your legs. But, if you’re one of those lucky people who zonks out the second your seatbelt’s on, maybe opt for the window seat so you won’t be disturbed. An upgrade for extra legroom is also an option – only the best for mum, right? 

Do infants need their own plane seats? 

The policy for all UK-registered aircraft is that infants under six months must sit on an adult’s lap and will be provided with an infant lap-strap. Children between six months and two years old can also sit with mum or dad, although it’s strictly one child to one lap. Any more and you’ll need to bag some extra space, if only for your sake. That said, regardless of your party size, if you’d prefer not to be squashed by a toddler for a couple of hours, you can always pay extra to make sure everyone’s sitting comfortably. 

Can you get travel vaccinations when you’re pregnant? 

Inactive vaccines are perfectly safe during pregnancy. But those that use live bacteria or viruses are worth talking to your GP or midwife about. If you’re travelling somewhere that requires a vaccination or advises taking malaria tablets, book an appointment to discuss the recommendation.  

What information do I need to know about the Zika virus? 

The Zika virus is spread by mosquitoes found in some parts of the world and for most, it’s mild, but it can cause complications if you’re pregnant. Everything you need to know about the Zika virus and how it affects pregnant women is on the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office’s official website. It explains the steps you need to take before considering travel, as well as the latest updates and guidelines. If you’re planning on travelling to an area with an active Zika virus transmission, you should talk to your doctor or midwife for guidance. 

Are airport scanners safe to use during pregnancy? 

Airport scanners, which use a low-frequency electromagnetic field, are considered safe for everyone – including pregnant women. 

Any other tips? 

Yes – drink and eat little and often. Ignore the fact it may mean a few extra trips to the loo – a pregnant woman’s recommended fluid intake is even higher than usual, so it’s vital to stay hydrated, onboard and abroad. Likewise, keep some snacks close to hand – fruit is ideal as it ticks both the ‘fluid’ and the ‘food’ boxes. 

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Author: Katie Gregory and Lily Owen
Last updated: 29/01/2024