Read on for our essential tips on flying while pregnant

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Planning a sunshine holiday or quick getaway before the baby arrives? Flying while pregnant can be totally doable with a little prep. Here's what you need to know to have a smooth and safe flight.

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Is it safe to fly?

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The good news is that flying during pregnancy is safe for most women. The best time to fly is usually during the second trimester (weeks 13 to 26) when morning sickness eases up and energy levels are higher. Always check with your midwife or GP before booking your tickets, especially if you have a high-risk pregnancy or any health concerns.

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Planning your trip

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• Choose the best time: Most airlines won’t let you board a plane if you’re within a month of your due date. And let's be real, you probably wouldn’t want to fly then anyway! If you're travelling after 24 weeks, you may need a letter from your doctor or midwife confirming that it's safe for you to fly. Each airline has its own rules, so check your airline or holiday company's policy before you book.

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• Check out the health services: Google the healthcare options at your travel destination. It's always reassuring to know where to turn in case of an emergency, but especially so when you're expecting.

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• Make sure you’re covered: Check your travel insurance to make sure it covers pregnancy-related issues and potential costs related to baby if they happen to come unexpectedly early, and that it remains valid for the duration of your trip. And get yourself a GHIC card (Global Health Insurance Card) as back-up. Your peace of mind is key!

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• Be seat smart: “My flying hack for pregnancy is to book an aisle seat,” says new mum Bethany Worrall (@bethanyfrancesca_) who flew to Florida at 20 weeks pregnant. “That way you can easily get up to visit the loo or stretch your legs when it’s safe to do so. If you can, pick a seat near the wings for a smoother ride with less turbulence. While extra legroom is fantastic, keep in mind that you might not be allowed to sit next to an emergency exit.”

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Above: Content creator Bethany packed and ready to go!

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Preparing for your flight

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• Stay comfy: Wear loose, comfy clothes or stretchy maternity leggings and shoes that you can easily take off once you’re on board – we like a pair of sliders or comfy trainers. Compression socks can help prevent deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a risk during pregnancy due to various factors including hormone changes and your growing uterus. They may not give off the #quietluxury travel vibe you were aiming for, but they can definitely help to reduce swollen ankles!

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• Pack wisely: Keep your maternity notes and other essential items, including any medication, in your hand luggage. This way, you'll have them easily accessible when you need them and avoid any worries about lost luggage. A wheelie case is easy to push around.

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• Hydrate and nourish: Airplane cabins can be quite dehydrating. Drink plenty of water and skip the caffeine and sugary drinks. Pack some healthy snacks like fruit, crackers, and protein bars to keep your energy up and avoid the temptation of less nutritious in-flight meals. If you’re suffering from morning sickness, stock up on remedies like mints, boiled sweets and travel-sized mouthwash. See our travel essentials here.

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During the flight

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• Move around: If it’s safe to do so, get up and walk down the aisle every hour to keep your circulation flowing and reduce the risk of DVT. If you can’t walk, do simple exercises at your seat, such as ankle circles and foot flexes.

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• Buckle up: Always keep your seatbelt fastened under your belly and low on your hips, even when seated. This will help keep you and your baby safe during unexpected turbulence.

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• Rest and relax: Use a neck pillow and blanket for added comfort. If you feel anxious about flying, practice some deep breathing exercises or listen to calming music.

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Post-flight care

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• Take it easy: Once you arrive, try to rest and adjust to any time zone changes slowly. Your body is working hard growing a new life, so give it the downtime it needs.

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• Stay hydrated and eat well: Continue drinking plenty of fluids and eating nutritious foods to help your body recover from the journey. Try and stick to safe sources of food and water – the last thing your body needs in pregnancy is a case of food poisoning.

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Happy travels!

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Embrace the opportunity to get away before the baby arrives. Travelling during pregnancy can be an exciting adventure, as long as you take the right precautions. So, pack your bags, don't forget your maternity notes, and bon voyage!