Flying While Pregnant? Here is What Helped Me as a Nurse Traveling Internationally
If you’re planning a babymoon or a getaway, don’t miss these tips before flying while pregnant for a smoother flight! You might also wonder if flying while pregnant is allowed or if it’s even safe.
Another common question is when to stop traveling while pregnant. While the rules and policies for deciding whether to stop traveling while pregnant vary by the form of travel, it’s important to get cleared by your healthcare provider first, before planning any trips!
As a nurse and a mother of two, I have flown internationally and domestically many times while pregnant with both Kai and Zyra. Through all of my travel experiences I have found these travel tips to be highly beneficial, so let’s get to it.
Disclaimer: this is not medical advice!
Related: 21 Tips for Flying With a Baby I Wish I Knew Sooner (Mom of 2!)
FAQs on Flying While Pregnant
1. How can I make flying easier while pregnant?
You can make flying easier while pregnant by following these flying while pregnant tips: wear loose fitting clothing, wear compression socks, hydrate, eat a snack to help maintain your blood sugar, consult with your healthcare provider and bring ginger candies in case you get a bit nauseous.
2. Does airplane pressure affect the fetus?
According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists,
“Recent cohort studies suggest no increase in adverse pregnancy outcomes for occasional air travelers.” In addition, “for most air travelers, the risks to the fetus from exposure to cosmic radiation are negligible”.
3. At what month should a pregnant woman not fly?
Most airlines recommend a pregnant woman not fly after 36 weeks of pregnancy.
4. Do I need to tell my airline I’m pregnant?
In terms of telling your airline you’re pregnant, it’s always best to check in and let them know in case any accomodations need to be made. I don’t think it’s a “requirement”, however, might just be a good thing to do.
5. When to Stop Flying While Pregnant?
Generally speaking, it is recommended that you stop flying while pregnant before 36 weeks. After that time frame, you technically aren’t allowed to fly.
It can be a case-by-case scenario, so it’s important to check in with your healthcare provider beforehand and get clearance for flying while pregnant. If there are any health conditions that pose a risk to you or your baby, you might be advised against traveling altogether.
In addition, airlines might require you to get a note or a medical certificate from your doctor, so be sure to check with the airline before purchasing your tickets and confirming your trip.
When it comes to other forms of travel, such as a cruise, it is recommended to stop traveling while pregnant before you’re 23 weeks pregnant. This is due to the fact that cruise ships are out at sea for an extended amount of time, so if medical care is needed for baby or for mom, it potentially could be delayed for days both onboard and at a port.
According to the Royal Caribbean website: ” All guests are required to fill out a Public Health Questionnaire prior to arrival or at the pier attesting that they are not more than 23 weeks pregnant”.
Make sure to check the policy of your chosen cruise line for more details about when to stop traveling while pregnant.
Don’t be afraid about flying while pregnant, just try your best to hydrate and not stress. Give yourself plenty of time at the check-in so that you don’t feel anxious about running late.
Related: Airplane Bassinet: 12 Things Airlines Might Not Tell You
Flying While Pregnant: What Worked for Me as a Nurse Traveling Internationally
1. Hydrate
I get asked all the time about tips on flying while pregnant , especially from first-time moms. One important thing ( which sounds so basic) is to drink plenty of fluids days before your flight.
Avoid carbonated, sugary, and caffeinated drinks the day of the flight to help prevent dehydration.
Another thing that worked for me is to bring an empty, refillable water tumbler and refill it at the airport or on the plane.
Low humidity on the plane is another reason why hydrating is important.
PS: don’t drink coffee or tea on the plane, their hot water tanks rarely get cleaned. yuck.
2. Wear Compression Socks
Wearing compression socks when you’re flying while pregnant and traveling has many benefits. As a nurse, I wear them to work every day since I’m on my feet for hours. (Also, I’ve taken care of patients with DVTs and it’s not something any of us want lol).
They are designed to:
– help with blood flow
– help alleviate discomfort
– help prevent varicose veins
– reduce muscle fatigue
– reduce the Risk of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT), which is a blood clot that forms in a deep vein, commonly in the leg).3. Get up and Walk Around Frequently
Getting up and walking around the plane frequently will help improve circulation, which is why it’s so highly recommended, especially for those that are flying while pregnant.
Consider booking an aisle seat so you don’t get stuck by the window and can move around freely at any point during the flight.
4. Wear Loose Fitting Clothes
To maximize comfort when flying while pregnant, do yourself a favor and consider wearing loose-fitting clothes. Here are some ideas.
– Maternity leggings with side pockets
– Maternity loose-fitting pants
– Maternity loose-fitting top
5. Pack all the Necessities
If you’re in the first trimester, consider packing nausea medications for motion sickness (these ginger candies are great), and don’t forget your prenatal vitamins even when traveling (use code MROMSUGGS for an extra 20% off).
6. Get Cleared to Travel by Your Healthcare Provider
Make sure you are safe to travel by scheduling an appointment to see your doctor. Write down questions you might have beforehand, and bring them with you to the appointment. Also, check airline policy and cruise ship policies regarding traveling while pregnant, and if needed, get a clearance form signed at the appointment.
7. Bring Snacks
Make sure you have a healthy snack with you so you can maintain your blood sugar levels while traveling. This will also help with nausea when flying while pregnant.
You can bring some roasted almonds, crackers, trail mix, veggie sticks, or all of the above. Another great option is these rice and veggie crisps.
8. Pack Your Medical Records
Consider packing your medical records with you if you’re flying while pregnant.
Furthermore, it might be beneficial to double-check your insurance coverage policy just in case something happens.
9. Wear Slip on Shoes
Since there’s a good chance your feet might swell ( because whose feet don’t swell while pregnant), consider wearing slip-on shoes. When I was flying while pregnant I wore Birkenstocks, which are a great option since these sandals evenly distribute your body weight over the whole foot.
10. Check Airline Policy
Since policies on traveling while pregnant differ amongst airlines, double-check to make sure they don’t require a medical clearance letter from a doctor.
These are some things that helped me when I was flying while pregnant. I was able to stay comfortable, safe, and stress-free during my third-trimester flight. I hope you find it helpful as well.
– Mel
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Written by: Melanie Suggs
Updated: May 27, 2025
Melanie is a nurse, a coffee-lovin’ mama of two, and a frequent flier who has visited 17+ countries, lived overseas in Asia, Europe, and the States, and has taken her toddlers on over 30 international flights and even more domestic ones.
With her extensive experience in flying and traveling with her family, she developed a passion for helping parents travel with ease through tips, suggestions, and reviews on her blogs.
